The 4 Rs: Positive Practices for In-Home Dementia Care

According to Columbia University Irving Medical Center, one in 10 older adults in America have dementia. While this condition affects cognition and memory, its impact is far-reaching and can also take a toll on a senior’s family and friends.

Many families might hire an in-home dementia caregiver to keep their elderly loved ones safe and comfortable. These compassionate individuals provide the daily assistance and support a dementia patient needs to maintain independence and age in place at home.

However, working with seniors with dementia can be quite challenging because of their ever-changing moods, abilities, and behaviors. This can cause frustration for both caregivers and their clients.

The 4 Rs & Improving Caregiving for Seniors with Dementia

To continually provide the care their clients need and deserve, caregivers must practice the four Rs: reassure, reconsider, redirect, and relax.

Here’s everything you need to know about the four Rs and how to provide the best care possible to seniors with dementia. 

Reassure 

Older adults with dementia can experience confusion and memory loss. They might not remember where they are, what day it is, or who their loved ones are, making them feel scared and agitated.

Caregivers must continually reassure clients with dementia that they are safe and sound. While constant reassurance might sound annoying, it can prevent a senior’s stress and fear from escalating. 

Reconsider 

It can be tough to walk a mile in the shoes of someone who has dementia. Because of their condition, how they view and experience the world can vastly differ from ours. Seniors with dementia may do things that other people consider strange, like forgetting to bathe or getting angry that relatives are dropping by for a quick visit.

In-home caregivers need to consider any given situation from their client’s point of view. Remain calm, and remind yourself that this is their disease acting now, not the person.

Redirect 

Simply telling an older adult with dementia to do or not do something rarely works. Arguing with a dementia patient can be even worse and make them more upset.

Redirecting their attention is often a better approach. This involves shifting a senior’s focus and redirecting their counterproductive behavior or frustration to something more valuable and positive. For example, if a senior with dementia feels worried, caregivers can divert their attention away from negative thoughts with fun games or calm, soothing music. 

Relax 

Relaxation is vital for both older adults with dementia and those caring for them. If you find yourself losing your cool, step outside and take some time to relax and recoup. Doing so allows you to approach the stressful situation with more patience and even a new angle. 

Compassionate Dementia Care Services for Lewisburg Seniors 

Does your loved one have dementia and could benefit from in-home care solutions? If so, contact Visiting Angels of the Greater Susquehanna Valley today. We provide compassionate dementia caregiving services to seniors throughout Williamsport, Lewisburg, Danville, Montoursville, Bloomsburg, and the surrounding areas.

Get in touch today by calling 570-768-4747 for more information.