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5 Dementia Care Mistakes to Avoid

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We know how difficult it can be to look after someone with dementia. You can research all you want, search the web, and buy all of the books. However, there are some situations you can’t foresee and seem impossible to prepare for. Luckily, we have discovered the common mistakes caregivers make when looking after one with dementia. Here are the following 5 dementia care mistakes to avoid. 

Do Not Argue

One of the 5 dementia care mistakes to avoid is arguing with those with dementia. This is easier said than done. A person with dementia sees the world very differently from the caregiver, so it is best to be agreeable and relaxed when talking to them. If they say they haven’t eaten all day when you know that they have just finished lunch, there is no point in contradicting them. You will have to learn to let things go and avoid tension by stepping into their world. Try to listen to what they are saying, even if it doesn’t necessarily make sense from your perspective.

Do Not Assume

Another mistake many caregivers make is that they treat those with dementia the same. The trajectory of dementia is very different for each person. There are guidelines to consider, but everyone has different experiences, coping mechanisms, and personality traits. Take these into account and enjoy their individuality! Do not assume. Always stay positive, verbally, and non-verbally!

Those with Dementia aren't Children

This is very important to take into account. Please do not treat those with dementia like infants. Yes, you may need to talk slowly, but this doesn’t mean you should talk down to them. They must keep socializing without being patronized. Acknowledge that their intelligence has not diminished, just their ability to understand you and express themselves verbally.

Do Not Mention Problematic Topics

Asking whether someone remembers something is very easy to do but can be very embarrassing and frustrating for the person with dementia. Stick to simple subjects or topics that they bring up themselves and be very aware of mentioning anyone who has died. This may be a passing comment for you, but for them, it could bring back all the emotions as if they had only just found out for the first time. Try not to say “calm down” instead be reassuring and understanding without disagreeing or aggravating the situation.

Delaying Care

It can be hard to let go, but it is essential for both your well-being and your loved one’s safety and health. In the later stages of dementia they may need constant company and supervision, which you can not provide. At Courtyard Manor, we offer all-inclusive nursing care on the floor 24 hours a day to provide care to those with dementia. No matter what stage of dementia your loved one is at, get in touch with our friendly team! We can discuss options with you and advise on the best care option for your specific situation. Feel free to reach out to us today! We would love to hear from you. You can also visit our website to learn more!

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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Dementia Symptoms to Track in Seniors

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 In the United States alone, thousands of families find out that their loved ones are diagnosed with dementia. With the number of reported cases of Alzheimer’s growing every year, this has become an unfortunate but common reality for many families. Learning to spot key dementia symptoms and behaviors in your aging loved one can make a huge difference. Your observations would provide helpful insight to doctors, leading to a quicker and more accurate diagnosis. Discover these six dementia symptoms to track in seniors: 

Memory and Recall

It is normal to forget things once in a while, but signs of forgetfulness every day is an early warning sign of dementia. For instance, if your mom is consistently losing track of her thoughts mid-sentence, or if your dad has trouble finding words in casual conversations, these are dementia signs to take note of. 

Losing Track of Time

Another red flag to be aware of is your elderly loved one loses track of time. This could mean your loved one forgets the day, month, year, holidays, or other essential dates like an appointment or birthday. Try to write down what they forget and how often the lapses occur. 

Inability to Learn Something New

Another common dementia symptom to track in seniors is the inability to learn something new. While many people assume that dementia challenges only have to do with memory, this condition impacts multiple areas of the brain. You may notice that your loved one is unable to learn or grasp new concepts or lessons.

For example, if they have a new television in their home with a new remote, and consistently can’t learn to use the new remote, you may want to note this. This is also a telltale sign that it is becoming difficult for them to live on their own as they find themselves unable to comprehend the ideas, tasks, or questions that come their way.

Repeating Themselves

Repetition is common in dementia because of memory loss and general behavioral changes. The person may repeat daily tasks, such as shaving, or they may collect items obsessively. They also may repeat the same questions in a conversation after they’ve been answered.

Losing Interest in Activities

Another thing to be aware of is your loved one losing interest in their favorite activities. The reason behind this has to do with shame or embarrassment over their diagnosis, or it can be a sign of depression. Some seniors may feel uncomfortable engaging in their favorite activities and fear that they may forget something or make a poor decision. When you notice your loved one is being reclusive in this manner and avoiding the things they love the most, you may need to step in to get them the assistance they need.

Wandering Around

Wandering is perhaps one of the most severe behaviors to be aware of. Individuals with dementia tend to exhibit this behavior, and it is one that could put your loved one in danger. The first time there is an issue with wandering, it is time to consider some assistance for the senior. Wandering can be a threat to their lives, so it is a behavior that should be taken seriously. 

Contact Us Today

 All in all, it is so important to understand the following dementia symptoms to track in seniors. You must pay close attention to see how your elderly loved one’s disease continues to progress. Although there is no cure, there are many resources and services available to help promote independence and make life more comfortable for those in dementia. Contact us today to learn more about our memory care here at Courtyard Manor. 

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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How to Prevent Dehydration in Seniors

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Now that summer is here, it is important to monitor dehydration in seniors and prevent dehydration from occurring during these warmer months. In fact, dehydration is much more common in the elderly than younger people. But what causes dehydration in the elderly? The cause for dehydration in seniors is often due to inadequate water intake but can happen due to other health reasons. As we age, our body’s water percentage naturally decreases and we become less aware of our thirst. As family members or caretakers, we must take action in preventing dehydration in seniors to avoid serious health risks. 

Whether you are a family member or caretaker, be sure to watch for the following symptoms of dehydration:

Symptoms of Dehydration

  • Headaches
  • Cramps 
  • Dry mouth
  • Thick saliva
  • Dark-colored urine
  • Fatigue 
  • Joint pain
  • Irritability

Potential Health Risks of Dehydration

Elderly loved ones often struggle with dehydration without themselves or their caretakers noticing, which makes it essential to recognize the potential health risks. The following potential health risks of dehydration are: 

  • Seizures
  • Kidney problems
  • Low blood volume
  • Heat strokes

How to Prevent Dehydration in Seniors

Assess water needs

If your loved one’s current water intake is below the required amount, try to have them increase the amount they drink gradually. Encourage them to drink a cup of water after they wake up or take small sips in-between meals! You do not want to wait until they are thirsty to start drinking water. It is recommended to take one-third of the person’s body weight in pounds and have them drink the equivalent number of ounces of water daily. For example, a 150-pound woman would need 50 fluid ounces of water daily. 

Consume foods high in water content

Be sure to incorporate foods high in water content into their diet. Fruits, vegetables, and even yogurt can help seniors stay hydrated. For instance, have them eat watermelon or cucumbers which are 96 percent water content. 

Avoid diuretic beverages

Try to discourage your elderly loved one from drinking alcohol, coffee, and some protein drinks which can increase urination and lead to dehydration. 

All in all, it is so important to monitor dehydration in your loved one during the hot summer months. Now you are able to identify the signs or symptoms, as well as, the potential health risks of dehydration. By following these tips, you will be able to effectively prevent dehydration in seniors. Stay safe and stay hydrated this summer!

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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Transitioning to a Memory Care Facility

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When is it the best time to transition my loved one to a memory care facility?

Those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia have options to get them the quality care they need. One of those options is moving to a memory care facility. But when is it the best time to transition to a memory care facility? If you notice your loved one showing signs of memory loss that are affecting their quality of life, then it is time to consider transitioning to a memory care facility. 

Do Your Research

Before deciding on a memory care facility, research facilities, and amenities to know whether it is the right choice for your loved one. Look into the community policies and procedures, security, and the services and treatments available. In addition to this, speak with your loved one to understand what facility will best suit their needs.

Have Open Conversations

Above all, have open and honest conversations with your parent or loved one. Be patient and understanding. Listen to how they feel about it. Reassure them that you will continue to be part of their life. What you disclose to your loved one about the upcoming move is a decision you must make. If you think that it will only cause them to worry in advance, then plan to provide the information as clearly as possible when closer to the move-in date. 

Schedule Visits Before Moving

Plan ahead of time and make several visits with your parent or loved one before moving into the memory care facility. You will want to encourage them to get involved in activities and meet the other residents while visiting. This will help them become comfortable and more familiar with the facility as well as staff and residents.

Recognize that the Transition will be Difficult

During the transition to a memory care facility, your parent or loved one will most likely complain. They may even become depressed, anxious, or angry. Try not to dismiss their feelings. Instead, provide lots of reassurance and comfort. This is a difficult time for both of you. You may have doubts about the decision, but you are doing the right thing by giving them the help they need! 

Remain Positive

The best thing you can do during this transition is to remain positive. If you are always stressing and feeling negative about the situation, then your loved one will likely feel the same way. Stay positive and point out all of the good things about their new community. You want them to feel excited about the transition! 

Expel Feelings of Guilt

You may feel guilty or ashamed that you are placing your loved one in the care of others. But do not! It is entirely natural to feel this way as it is a big decision. You may have friends or family members who will criticize this decision. However, do not feel obligated to explain yourself or reason with arguments. You are helping your parent or loved ones by getting them the best memory care. 

Make it feel like Home

Lastly, make it feel like home for your loved one by decorating their room or door with things they love. It is vital to make them feel comfortable and at home. Before moving day, work with the staff, and try to recreate a familiar environment. Pin up family photos around their room. Arrange their belongings and possessions in a way that was similar to their previous home. Those with Alzheimer’s or dementia take comfort in what they can recognize. Although it may not be apparent, your loved one will greatly appreciate your assistance with transitioning them to a memory care facility and their new home. 

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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Understanding Alzheimer’s Symptoms

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What is Alzheimer's?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that mainly affects the memory of individuals over the age of 65. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease doubles about every five years for those over the age of 65. The risk determining factors of Alzheimer’s are usually; age, gender, and genetic inheritance. Since Alzheimer’s does not have a cure, understanding Alzheimer’s symptoms is essential so you can catch it early on to assist your loved one. Here are the following symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease to be on the lookout for:

Understanding Alzheimer's Symptoms

Forgetting Common Tasks

One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s is memory loss that disrupts daily life. For example, your loved one may forget important dates, appointments, and events. Ultimately leading your loved one to rely on you or family members and memory aids to help remind them. Additionally, elderly individuals may easily forget tasks that they learned recently, even after being repeatedly taught.

Repetitive Behaviors

Another common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease is when an elderly individual repetitively asks the same question or repeats the same task over and over. Alzheimer’s affects an individual’s short term memory, which causes them to forget tasks that they have already completed.  

Challenges with Problem Solving

Those developing Alzheimer’s may experience difficulties in following a simple plan or work with numbers. For instance, your loved one may make occasional errors when managing finances or household bills. 

A Decrease in Motor Skills

Along with memory issues, elderly individuals who are experiencing the early signs of Alzheimer’s will have difficulty with basic motor skills. These motor skills could be having trouble writing, buttoning shirts, or tying their shoes. Decreased motor skills can also impact one’s ability to walk at a reasonable pace, often resulting in them taking shorter steps.

Confusion with Time or Place

An individual with progressive Alzheimer’s disease may begin to forget what time it is or where they are and how they got there. When elderly individuals become confused over time and place, they begin to wander, which can be extremely dangerous in certain circumstances.

Poor Hygiene and Grooming

In addition to this, seniors with Alzheimer’s may show a decrease in their concern for their hygiene. This can include a lack of grooming behaviors like brushing their teeth, taking a shower, and how they dress.

Changes in Sleep

Another symptom to be aware of would be an increase in daytime naps and frequent insomnia. Alzheimer’s can affect a senior’s motivation and drive, leading to decreased activity during the daytime. While it is normal for elderly individuals to have some sleeping changes, a severe change like taking multiple naps during the day can be a sign of Alzheimer’s disease.

Speech Problems

A prominent symptom of Alzheimer’s disease can be an individual’s decreased ability to speak and join in conversations. This symptom may lead to your loved one retreating with others socially because of this difficulty. 

Frequently Misplacing Items

A senior with Alzheimer’s may begin to misplace items more often, as they are unable to remember where they put their belongings and retrace their steps. He or she may accuse others of stealing, especially as the disease progresses. 

Changes in Mood and Personality

Individuals living with Alzheimer’s may experience extreme mood and personality changes on a day to day basis. These mood swings can include anxiety, fear, depression, and confusion. These personality changes can also cause a senior to withdraw themselves from social activities or conversations. 

Contact a Doctor or Health Professional

Overall, if you or a family member notice that your elderly loved one is showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease, please make sure to contact their doctor. The natural aging process can explain many of these symptoms, but if the symptoms are severe, then it is best to take action. By understanding Alzheimer’s symptoms and with early detection, you and your loved one can explore treatments that may provide some relief for the following symptoms and help them maintain a level of independence longer. 

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency