If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, getting together with a large family group can be difficult to manage, even if your loved one is looking forward to the event. However, taking a few preparatory measures can increase your loved one’s safety in such an environment. Here are several ways to ensure a safe family gathering for a loved one with dementia.
1. Be Flexible
You may need to cut back on certain activities or make adjustments to accommodate your loved one’s needs. For example, you may have to schedule the gathering earlier in the day if your loved one experiences sundowning, which refers to the confusion some seniors with dementia experience in the late afternoon and early evening.
Dementia is just one of the many health issues older adults are susceptible to. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior home care. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
2. Inform Your Guests of the Condition
Make sure you let your guests know about your loved one’s dementia so they can also be prepared. It’s a good idea to prepare your guests ahead of time by giving them suggestions about the best ways to communicate with your loved one. You should inform other family members that your loved one may not recognize them and that they shouldn’t take it personally. This level of assurance can make guests feel more comfortable about including your loved one in activities at the gathering.
3. Try to Maintain a Normal Routine
Sudden changes in their daily routines can cause anxiety in seniors with dementia and lead to outbursts. Make sure meals are served and medications are taken at their regular times. If you’re traveling with your loved one to a family gathering, try to bring along something from home, such as a favorite blanket or pillow, to make him or her feel more comfortable.
4. Start Preparing Early
If you and your loved one will be visiting family, you should request any necessary preparations far ahead of time so your loved one can be properly accommodated. Let your hosts know about any special dietary and safety requirements your loved one has. Encourage labeling rooms, such as your loved one’s bedroom and the bathroom, to lessen confusion. Tell your loved one about the visit ahead of time and provide frequent reminders.
Even when families have the best intentions, caring for an aging adult with dementia can be challenging. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care Lincoln, CA, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
5. Keep Things Low-Key
Large crowds can be disorienting for people with dementia. If possible, try to limit your gathering to a few familiar faces. You can arrange for other people to visit one-on-one later, when the environment is less hectic.
Caring for a senior with dementia can be challenging for family caregivers. Luckily, there is dementia care Lincoln families can rely on. Professional dementia caregivers help seniors with dementia stay safe and comfortable at home by preventing wandering, providing cognitive stimulation, and assisting with household chores. To hire a dedicated caregiver, call Home Care Assistance at (916) 226-3737 today.