Caring for Seniors with Dementia
- create a supportive environment by:
- providing extra security measures such as posting notes to serve as reminders (e.g. turn stove off);
- keeping the environment familiar e.g. don’t move furniture around;
- establish and maintain a regular daily routine; and,
- keeping the client oriented. (e.g clock, calendar, radio, night light);
- evaluate home for safety and take corrective actions by:
- removing scatter rugs;
- storing household cleaners and harmful substances in a safe place;
- removing sharp & breakable objects from the environment; and,
- using plastic eating and drinking utensils;
- provide structure and routine;
- schedule low stress activities;
- speak slowly and clearly to facilitate their understanding of what is being said;
- provide simple explanations on everything said;
- research community resources which will benefit the client;
- encourage them to share their memories, as long as they can recall them;
- plan physical activities, as they will offset disruptive behavior;
- encourage mental activities (e.g. reading, crafts, keeping abreast with current events); and,
- provide the client’s basic needs.
