Dementia care: no drugs allowed
This post is inspired by all the caregivers I
have coached who still find it hard to deal with their loved one when
they become agitated.
This post is shorter than others, because when I
provide tips I want you to be able to focus on the
tips; therefore, giving time for you to consider
how to adapt to your lifestyle and make it distinct for you and your loved
one.
If you continue to have trouble, please feel free to reach out to us, that
is what we are here for.
So, your loved is agitated, here on some
caregiver tips:
1. Reduce
noise, clutter, or the number of persons in the room = less stimulation
2.
Maintain structure; have routines. Keep household objects and furniture
in the same places = security and expectation reduces anxiety
3. Reduce
caffeine, sugar, and other foods that cause energy spikes = a lot of energy
that is not properly placed or used = anxiety = agitation
4. Do not
try to restrain the person during a period of agitation. Try gentle touch, music, walks, or aromatherapy = distraction and feeling
connected
5. Speak in a reassuring voice = not a threat
6. Keep
dangerous objects out of reach = safety
7. Allow
the person to do as much as possible = independence, shows respect
8.
Acknowledge their feelings = feel connected, independent, and respected
9. Give a
snack or an activity = distraction, may be hungry which is causing the
agitation
10. BREATHE
Bored
(just watching TV?)
Restroom (when is the last
time?)
Exhausted (need rest or short nap or better bed time
routine?)
Anxious (too much what?)
Thirsty (when is
the last time?)
Hungry (when is the last time?)
Environment/Pain
(making faces or TV loud?)
You as the
caregiver – you need to BREATHE too! 😊
Thank you for reading!
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