How to Create a Dementia Care Plan for Your Loved One

Nearly 50 million people live with dementia, according to the World Health Organization. In fact, it’s one of the major causes of disability and dependency.

Aside from Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common type of dementia, there’s Lewy body dementia, Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease, vascular dementia, and Korsakoff Syndrome, to name a few.

Was your loved one recently diagnosed with the condition? Need some tips on how to create a dementia care plan?

If so, you’re on the right page. Keep reading to learn more about the topic!

What Is Dementia? 

Dementia is a collective term that’s used to describe a set of symptoms that affect thinking, memory, and social abilities. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion, reduced concentration, and personality changes.

As the condition progresses, there’s a high chance that the individual will lose their ability to do everyday tasks. In other words, there will be an eventual loss of independence.

4 Things to Consider When Coming Up With a Dementia Care Plan 

Caring for someone with dementia can be difficult. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re coming up with a dementia care plan.

1. Reach Out For Help

Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Chances are, you won’t be able to do it all alone. For example, you can reach out to friends and family members. There are also volunteer organizations that can help.

Remember, the last thing that you want to do is to overwhelm yourself. Plan your own care—don’t abandon the people and activities that you love just because you’ve taken on the role of a caregiver.

2. Learn How to Cope with Changes in Communication

You’ll likely notice changes in communication as your loved one’s dementia progresses. For example, they might have trouble finding words or be easily confused.

Try your best not to become frustrated—that’ll only make the situation worse. Speak slowly and keep your communication short and clear. Be prepared to repeat things as much as necessary.

3. Develop a Daily Routine

Come up with a day-to-day routine. You want to have set times for different activities such as mealtimes, dressing, and bathing.

That will give your loved one a sense of consistency so that they’ll know what to expect. If necessary, you can always use reminders. For example, you can stick written notes on the fridge to remind them to do certain things.

4. Plan Activities

It’s important to include activities when you’re developing daily routines. It’ll give your loved one the socialization that they need—just try not to overdo it.

For example, you can invite family or friends for a visit. You can also visit a park, go for a drive, or take a short walk.

Caring For Someone With Dementia 

And there we have it—four things to consider when you’re coming up with a dementia care plan. If anything, the most important thing is to understand the disease. That way, you’ll be able to get a better idea as to what your loved one is experiencing.

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