Understanding & Caring for a Loved One with Dementia
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be deeply fulfilling but also deeply challenging. For family caregivers, this journey involves trying to understand their loved one’s experiences while balancing caregiving's emotional demands. By taking an empathetic approach, family caregivers can strengthen their connection with their loved ones while enhancing their quality of life and well-being. Here are some tips on creating a compassionate connection, managing stress, and understanding when asking for help can make a difference.
Embrace Your Loved One’s Journey from an Empathetic View
Understanding the world from the perspective of someone with dementia is an essential part of caring for them. While it might be difficult to imagine your loved one in this way, try to consider what it is like for them to experience moments of confusion, fear, and uncertainty. Putting yourself in their shoes, particularly during times like these, can help you approach their care with patience and a gentle heart. This might even mean having to validate their feelings when they don’t really align with reality, redirecting them when they’re experiencing distress, or simply spending quiet time in each other’s company.
Consider investing time into learning more about dementia. The more you know about your loved one’s condition and the common challenges involved with it, the deeper you will be able to connect with them. There are many resources available, like caregiver support groups and dementia care training programs, that can give you additional insight into connecting more deeply with your loved one. Here are a few to help you get started:
- Alzheimer’s Association: California Central Coast Chapter
- County of San Luis Obispo Healthy Aging Services
- Coast Caregiver Resource Center
- Dignity Health’s Family Caregiver Support Program
Lean on Professional Help for Additional Support
As a family caregiver, you may initially want to handle every aspect of your loved one’s care yourself. However, caring for someone with dementia can be overwhelming, especially as the condition progresses. It’s essential to avoid isolating yourself in the role. Instead, think of yourself as a part of the care team rather than a single entity. Your most impactful role may be as your loved one’s care coordinator, advocating for their needs, overseeing their care team, and helping to implement a personalized care plan.
At-home dementia care services can provide much-needed relief and peace of mind, allowing family caregivers to focus more on their relationship rather than on caregiving tasks. Professional, trained caregivers can assist with daily activities, maintaining routines, and staying safe at home and while on essential errands.
Build Your Own Support Network & Prioritize Self-Care
Caregivers–family and professionals alike–often consider their own needs last. While this is a testament to their selfless nature, it can be detrimental to their health and well-being.
Expand your own support network by opening up to family, friends, and local support groups. Take breaks often, accept reliable assistance when it is offered, and consider bringing in a professional caregiver for guilt-free respite. Remember, caring for yourself isn’t selfish or a waste of time–it’s essential. Maintaining your mental and physical health is the key to providing the compassionate care your loved one needs.
Add Visiting Angels San Luis Obispo to Your Caregiving Team!
It takes a village to care for a person with dementia. Thankfully, numerous organizations, including Visiting Angels of San Luis Obispo, CA, are here to help join your care team! Send us a message online or call us at (805) 546-2080 to discuss how we can work together to care for your loved one with dementia.
