TAKING CARE OF A LOVED ONE WITH DEMENTIA
A FEW HELPFUL TIPS
When a parent, spouse, or other loved one is diagnosed with dementia, the prospect of caring for them as their mind deteriorates can be terrifying on several different levels. You might wonder just how you’ll care for them as they start to forget the things they’ve always known, such as their address, their job — and the time they spent with you. As difficult as the road ahead might be, however, it is a manageable one. Remembering a few of these tips when caring for a loved one with dementia will help. TREAT THEM WITH RESPECT. Many dementia patients have fragile senses of self-worth. Even though their mental state might make it hard for you to treat them like adults, don’t treat them like children. Include them in conversations about them when they’re in the room, and respect their space and privacy when they want it. REMAIN PATIENT AT ALL TIMES. When dementia patients feel scared, helpless, or confused, they may act out aggressively. They might accuse you of stealing their fine china, or they might believe you’re trying to hurt them when you try to help them take their meds. When these things happen, never respond with aggression. Use your knowledge of the person to understand their feelings and de-escalate the situation. ESTABLISH ROUTINES FOR THEM. When a dementia patient’s memory fades, routines can help them stay calm and feel like they’re in a familiar environment. However, you should also be ready to go with the flow if it means keeping them comfortable — even if that looks like eating breakfast for dinner or wearing Christmas sweaters in April. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF, TOO. Taking care of someone with dementia is mentally, physically, and spiritually draining — and you’ll only be able to take care of them if you take good care of yourself. Find time to get some
rest, eat well, exercise, and see a doctor for yourself if necessary. Remember to seek help from friends and family when you can! When it comes to taking care of the legal side of caring for someone with dementia, look no further than Littlejohn Law. Visit our website at LittlejohnLawLLC.com or call 740-314-4829 to learn how we can help you and your loved one.
LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE: GINA’S CARRY OUT FAVORITES
Jeff and Edward love getting lunch from Gina’s Carry Out Favorites located at 4329 Sunset Blvd., Steubenville, OH 43952. Jeff loves the King Combo — which is a meatball and sausage on a hoagie bun. It’s jampacked with cheese and peppers. Edward always gets the King Meatball Combo or the White Pizza. Give them a call at 740-264-6554.
2 | 740-314-4829 This newsletter is for informational purposes only and no legal advice is intended. Be sure to consult with this law firm if you have a specific question about your situation. And remember, Edward and Jeff don’t take any unplanned inbound telephone or in-person meetings. We believe each case deserves our undivided attention.
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