Frustration is an emotion both caregivers and their senior loved ones can experience on a daily basis. Seniors with dementia may experience frustration due to being unable to communicate their needs. Or your loved one may get upset when he or she can’t do something he or she was able to do in the past. Identifying triggers for your loved one is a good first step toward boosting his or her mood, and you can use these additional strategies to make each day easier for everyone.
Watch for Early Signs of Frustration
Many angry outbursts are preventable when you know how to recognize the signs your loved one’s frustration is rising. A senior with dementia might pace around a room when getting frustrated. You might also notice your loved one’s facial expressions change, or he or she may exhibit tension in the hands. If you notice the early signs of frustration, try to adjust the situation or environment to help your loved one regain a sense of calm.
Caring for senior loved ones with dementia can be challenging for families who don’t have expertise or professional training in dementia care, but this challenge doesn’t have to be faced alone. Families looking for top-rated dementia home care providers can reach out to Companioa by IOA. From specialized dementia and in-home Alzheimer’s care to our adult day program and personal concierge services, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
Try to Pick Your Battles
Sometimes it’s easier to allow a senior with dementia to believe or do something you might otherwise argue against. For instance, it might be easier to let your loved one eat the same thing for breakfast and dinner if it won’t have a negative impact on his or her health. Learning to let the little things go can often lead to fewer frustrations during each day.
Keep a Few Distractions in Mind
A distraction is sometimes just what a senior with dementia needs to shift his or her mindset. For example, you might turn on music to help your loved one relax while you help him or her take a bath. Or you might choose to stop a stressful activity temporarily by taking a moment to watch birds through the window before returning to the task.
Allow for Extra Time to Get Things Done
Many frustrations come from a feeling of being pressed for time. If you know your loved one will insist on trying to tie his or her shoes before letting you help, consider adding a few extra minutes to your schedule to allow more time to get ready for the day. Allowing extra time to do things independently also helps your loved one preserve his or her abilities.
Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently with the help of professional dementia care at home. Families can rely on Companioa by IOA to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.
Plan Difficult Tasks for Early in the Day
Seniors with dementia often have certain times of the day when they’re at their best, and this is often in the morning. If your loved one wakes up cheerful, this might be the best time to do his or her personal hygiene routine or schedule a healthcare appointment. Planning around your loved one’s general moods may require some shifting of his or her schedule, but you’ll eventually develop a routine that works best for keeping your loved one calm.
Ask Another Caregiver to Step In
Your loved one might pick up on your frustration as tempers start to rise. Taking a step back could give both of you the space you need to return to a calmer state of mind. Changing caregivers can also serve as a change of pace that instantly transforms your loved one’s mood.
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be a challenging task for anyone. The responsibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming, but help is available. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted provider of dementia care at home. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need more extensive assistance that their families are not able to provide. Companioa by IOA is here to help. Call one of our dedicated Connect Specialists today at (415) 750-4111 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.