When a person with dementia finds that their mental abilities are declining, they often feel vulnerable and in need of reassurance and support. The people closest to them – including their carers, friends and family – need to do everything they can to help the person to retain their sense of identity and feelings of self-worth.
Treat the person with respect and dignity
When someone you know has dementia, it’s easy to focus on the dementia instead of the individual. But it’s important to remember that someone with dementia is still a unique and valuable person, just like anyone else.
When someone finds that their mental abilities are declining they often feel very vulnerable, so it is very important to help them feel confident and valued, and to encourage them to achieve small things for themselves.
Above all, try to be positive. Let the person know that they are important to you.
Be a good listener
When someone has dementia, or is supporting a loved one with dementia, it can really help them to talk things through. You can help by making time to listen – even if this is just with a short weekly phone call to see how they are.
You can help by asking thoughtful questions, and giving the person time to explore their feelings. Listen carefully, rather than jumping in with suggestions: you may find that the support they need is not what you had expected. It can be tempting to offer practical solutions, but often people just need a chance to say how they feel. Try to be supportive and accepting, and not to judge.
If you are listening to someone with dementia, think about how things appear from their perspective. If they are anxious about something, rather than telling them that their fears are irrational, try to imagine how that must feel for them.
Be a good communicator
People with dementia can become confused at times, so it’s important to communicate clearly with them. Try to speak calmly and clearly, waiting for signs that the person has understood what you have said.
Communicating isn’t just about talking. Non-verbal communication is very important too, especially for someone who is losing their language skills. So, pay attention to your body language. Make sure you look the person in the eye, talking to them at eye level, and use physical contact, such as a pat on the hand, to offer reassurance.
Your tone of voice is important too. Even if someone doesn’t understand the words you are using, they may sense if you are irritated, stressed or anxious. If you can convey a sense of warmth and reassurance, they will be more relaxed and content.
Remember that the little things can mean a lot
The idea of supporting someone whose life is affected by dementia can feel overwhelming. Some people worry about making a commitment that they can’t keep or getting involved in a situation that they can’t handle. Some people find it so difficult that they lose touch completely with their friend or family.
But it doesn’t need to be like that. Doing something that seems very small can make a big difference to someone living with dementia. Dropping in for a cup of tea or helping them organise their photo album make them feel that someone cares.
Stay in touch to show you care
People with dementia and their loved ones can easily become isolated as dementia progresses. Old friends can lose touch over time, but when someone’s life is affected by dementia this can happen simply because people don’t know how to behave with them any more.
If it’s not practical to visit the person, why not give them a ring, or write a letter or email? If you’re really pushed for time, drop a postcard or send a quick text message just to let them know you’re thinking about them.
Hearing from someone briefly and frequently is better than receiving a long letter twice a year, so don’t put it off and keep in touch.
Offer practical help
Two thirds of people with dementia live at home. Even those who are independent may welcome help with some tasks. Carers may be glad of help too – not least because they’re often short of time.
An easy way to help out is to offer practical support. Help the person tackle something on the ‘to do list’ – cut the grass, put the rubbish out, cook a meal or run an errand.
For some people remaining independent is important and it can give them a sense of great pride. So it’s important to find a balance between being insistent and knowing when to step back. If someone is fiercely independent, try to think of a two-person job that they might struggle with on their own.
Organise a treat
Almost everyone enjoys a special treat now and again. It can be something to look forward to and a welcome break from everyday routine.
If you are planning a treat for the person with dementia, think about what they liked to do before the illness, and whether you need to adapt an activity to their current situation. You could go for a drink in their local, have a picnic in the park, or take a trip to the seaside. Or you may prefer to spend time indoors, watching an old film or the football.
If you’d like to arrange a treat for a carer of someone with dementia, ask whether they would like the person to come too. If they would prefer to join you alone, help them think through who will look after their loved one so they can relax and enjoy planning the day with you.
Help different family members in different ways
It is not only the person with dementia who is affected by this condition – it also has an impact on anyone who is close to them. Some family members may dedicate a lot of time to caring responsibilities, and have little time to do practical things like tidying the house, let alone reading a book or having a soak in the bath. Filling in as a carer from time to time will offer welcome relief.
Others, including children and grandchildren, may be affected emotionally. They may be upset about the changes in their loved one, frustrated by disruptions to home life, distressed that they cannot be more involved, or concerned that they may develop dementia themselves. Offer them a chance to talk things through and express what they are feeling.
About the Author / Gareth Hargreaves
Gareth looks after all editorial content on 50connect. He is the Swiss Army knife of content ideas and production.
