How can I help a relative with memory issues?
If you know someone who is suffering from memory loss, you know how stressful it can be. Thankfully, there are many home care agencies and skilled nursing facilities who can help when needed. A Home Health Aide will make sure your loved one gets the help they need without having to compromise their independence. If you want to learn more about a Home Health Care in Little Canada MN, reach out to Pinnacle Home Care.
Create a routine
This can be as simple as making sure they eat at a set time each day or take an afternoon nap. You can also help them follow a routine by helping them get dressed and ready for the day at the same time every day. This can help to reduce confusion about what needs to be done and when it needs to be done.
Stay calm Home Health Care in Little Canada MN
If your relative is experiencing anxiety, try to stay calm and reassuring. This can help them feel more comfortable and less confused. If you start panicking and getting angry, it will only make things worse for both of you. Don’t overreact or criticize If your relative does something that upsets you, such as forgetting to take their medication, try not to get angry. Instead, calmly explain what happened and why it is important for them to remember in the future. Try not to criticize them when they forget something or do something wrong – it only makes things worse.
Simplify things
If your relative is having problems with memory, it can help to simplify things for them. For example, if they are forgetting the names of people or places, try to remember them yourself and then remind your relative when the person comes into the room. If you have to give them instructions over and over again, try breaking down what needs doing into simple steps that are easy to follow.
Get rid of distractions
If your relative is having problems with memory, it can be helpful to get rid of distracting items and sounds. For example, if they are forgetting appointments or where they put things, try to keep the house as quiet as possible so that there are fewer distractions for them when they are trying to remember things. Give them an organizer If your relative has trouble with their short-term memory or keeping track of things like appointments and phone numbers, you may want to give them a personal organizer.
Offer reassurance Home Health Care in Little Canada MN
If your relative is having trouble with their memory, they may feel frustrated or worried. You can help this by offering reassurance. For example, if they forget where they put something important, tell them that it’s okay and reassure them that there are plenty of things in the house for them to find.
Help out with difficult tasks
If your relative is having trouble with their memory, they may have trouble doing everyday tasks. For example, if they are trying to cook a meal but can’t remember how to measure ingredients or prepare food properly, help them out as much as you can. It’s important to acknowledge which of these you are able to help with, and which ones may require an in home care service to help.
An in home care service can provide the support that your loved one needs to stay at home. They can do things like help with cooking, cleaning, laundry and other tasks that may be difficult for someone who is suffering from dementia. If you have an in home care service providing these services, then you can spend time with your relative doing something they enjoy instead of being stuck in the kitchen all day long!
Encourage exercise and mobility
One of the best ways to combat dementia is to encourage mobility and exercise. This can be done by simply going for walks together every day, taking up a new hobby or playing an active game like bocce ball or golf. You can also encourage outdoor activities such as gardening or fishing. Try to find a solution that suits your relative.
Recruit assistance from a home care professionals
Many people with dementia will benefit from having a caregiver come in and help them with their daily tasks. If you are unable to care for your loved one, then it may be a good idea to recruit assistance from a home care professional. These professionals can assist with all kinds of chores that might otherwise fall on your shoulders, allowing you to spend more time doing things that matter most. At Pinnacle Home Care, we can assist your relative with our skilled nursing team, our companionship care, home health aide, homemaker services, and more.
There are many more things you can do beside the suggestions mentioned in this article to make your loved one’s life easier. But no matter which of the above you do, just remember to be patient and enjoy spending time with a loved one. When it comes to in-home care, Pinnacle Home Care is here to help you with Skilled Nursing, Companion Care, Home Health Aide, Homemaker Services, and more.
