Dementia Care in Southwest Colorado: When They Ask To Go Home
For family caregivers, dementia care can be a big, ever-changing responsibility. You may find yourself faced with unusual situations stemming from your loved one's mental confusion. For those with dementia, it's common to ask, "Can I go home?" even when they're at home to begin with. At Visiting Angels® Southwest Colorado, we can help you understand how to respond.
Let's review why this is happening and what to do.
How To Respond When They Ask To Go Home
When someone with dementia asks to go home, they're often trying to express confusion, disorientation, unfamiliarity, or discomfort. It doesn't matter if they're already home or not. Knowing this, our dementia care team in Southwest Colorado recommends doing the following:
- Maintain a calm and reassuring presence. Sometimes it's easier said than done, but it's important to maintain a reassuring voice and a calm presence. As much as possible, you want to respond with compassion and understanding. Take a moment or two if you need it. A gentle, evenly modulated tone is helpful here. If your loved one takes comfort in physical contact, give them a hug or put a light hand on their shoulder.
- Don't ignore or argue. The last thing you want is for your loved one to feel slighted or ignored. While it might be tempting to explain what's happening, remember they likely won't understand, and might even feel like you're arguing with them. You don't want to ignore their request either, since that can have a similarly minimizing effect. Instead, find a way to engage with them about home for a couple of minutes.
- Find a source of comfort for them. Once you've acknowledged their request, it's important to gradually redirect their attention elsewhere. It's always a good idea to have a stockpile of comforts nearby, whether it's a photo album, a favorite tea blend, or an old sweater. Relaxing activities are especially useful right now, such as taking a walk, or visiting the garden.
Your Compassionate Source For Dementia Care in Southwest Colorado
Our agency makes it easier to set up regular dementia care services whenever you need them. For family caregivers, it can be important to take time away, or to have professional support as your loved one's condition advances. We're proud to administer compassionate, comprehensive care in:
- Southwest Colorado
- San Luis Valley
- Farmington
- Pagosa Springs
- Alamosa
- Durango
- Cortez
- And throughout the surrounding area
Schedule professional dementia care from Visiting Angels Southwest Colorado. Just call us today, and we can guide you through your options.