When your partner, father or mother has dementia, a great deal changes in daily life. As a mantelzorger (family carer), you often take on more and more tasks. You do this out of love, but it can also be demanding. These tips help you keep up the care in the long run.
Calm and structure
A person with dementia benefits greatly from a fixed daily routine. Try to keep getting up, meals, activities and going to bed at the same times as much as possible. A large clock, a calendar or a whiteboard with the day’s plan provides something to hold on to.
Communicating with patience
- Use short, clear sentences and ask one question at a time.
- Make eye contact and speak calmly.
- Do not argue about what is or is not correct. Respond to the feeling behind the words.
- Allow time to answer.
A safe environment
Make sure there is good lighting, remove trip hazards and store hazardous products safely away. Also think about the gas cooker and the front door. Small adjustments can prevent a lot of restlessness and risk.
Keep enjoying time together
Music, old photos, a walk or cooking together: familiar activities bring enjoyment and calm. Focus on what is still possible.
Look after yourself too
Caring for a loved one can be demanding, especially when it goes on for a long time. Signs of overload include sleeping badly, irritability or no longer having any time for yourself. Take those signs seriously.
- Ask family, friends or neighbours to take over a regular task.
- Discuss the situation with your GP, who can put you in touch with a casemanager dementie (dementia case manager).
- Ask your municipality about support for family carers and options for respite care.
Help from RytelZorg
RytelZorg provides dementia care at home in Voorburg, Leidschendam, Wassenaar and The Hague. Our regular carers help with personal care, bring structure to the day and work closely with you and the GP. This gives you, as a family carer, some breathing space again.
Would you like to know what we can do for you and your loved one? Get in touch with us or call 06 14 97 58 70.