Overcome pica, one of the most perplexing dementia-related behaviors, with these tips.
As a family caregiver, you might have noticed some perplexing dementia-related behaviors, such as attempting to eat non-food items like napkins, dirt, or small objects. While these actions may be concerning, they are part of a phenomenon known as pica, which is surprisingly common in individuals with dementia.
Try redirection to overcome the challenges of dementia care.
Navigating the challenges of dementia care can be difficult, especially when a loved one becomes fixated on a specific idea or anxious about a nonexistent threat. Reasoning with them often leads to frustration, as logic does not always break through. Instead of arguing, a more effective method is redirection—gently shifting their focus to something calming and engaging. Read more
Finding new ways to communicate with someone with Alzheimer’s can unlock deeper connections.
You ask an easy question: “What would you like for lunch today?” But instead of a response, you are met with hesitation, bewilderment, and a long pause. You have probably experienced occasions such as this while being a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s, where words seem just out of reach and conversations feel more like challenges than connections. When verbal communication begins to fade, it’s easy to feel helpless. But the truth is, connection doesn’t rely solely on words. There are some incredibly effective nonverbal ways to communicate with someone with Alzheimer’s that will help you stay connected to the person you love. Read more
Dementia time-shifting can feel confusing, but it’s a chance to understand a loved one’s world and create meaningful moments together.
The way a person with dementia experiences the world is not always grounded in our current reality. One of the more heart-wrenching yet powerful experiences you may encounter is a phenomenon called dementia time-shifting. This isn’t just failing to remember what day it is; it’s a total immersion in a different period of their life. For example, you might be sitting together at the dining room table, and abruptly, your older loved one believes they are a young adult waiting for their parents to come home. It’s confusing for them and may be equally baffling for you. But understanding time-shifting can help make those moments more manageable—and even meaningful.
Time-shifting occurs when someone with dementia perceives themselves as living in a different moment from their past. Beyond reminiscing, it’s a profound, genuine belief that they’re currently in that particular period of time. For them, the present moment fades, substituted by intense memories that feel as real as today. They may call out for individuals who passed away years ago or speak about events that took place decades earlier as if they were happening now.
When time-shifting happens, it’s normal to want to correct the person’s perception, to gently remind them that they’re here, with you, in the present. However, we know that this method often results in confusion, frustration, or even distress. As an alternative, try stepping into their reality. Validate their feelings, understand what they are expressing, and respond with empathy. If they’re anxious about an appointment with their parents, for instance, you might say, “It sounds like you really care about being on time. They must have meant a lot to you.” This reaction can provide comfort without the jarring reminder that their parents aren’t around anymore.
Time-shifting may be a chance to create moments of connection with the individual you love. Make inquiries about the time they are absorbed in, such as, “What is something you’re excited to do when your parents get home?” Questions like this can inspire storytelling that engages them while giving you a richer comprehension of their past. You may hear stories you’ve never heard before or learn things that bring you closer.
It is essential to recognize that time-shifting could be emotionally exhausting. Seeing a loved one drift into another time and place can leave you feeling lost. Ensure that you have support, whether from friends, family, or professional resources. Joining a caregiver support group can also provide you with worthwhile tips and camaraderie from other individuals who know what you’re going through. Remember, you do not have to do this alone.
Though we understand how hard it may be, time-shifting moments offer a window into the life experiences that have shaped the person you love. And we are here to assist you every step of the way in taking care of a person you love with dementia. Our professional caregivers are fully trained and experienced in the unique nuances of dementia and are available to assist in Fort Lauderdale, Parkland, Weston, and throughout Broward County. Reach out to us at 954-486-6440 for a complimentary in-home meeting to find out more.
Holiday traditions for seniors with dementia involve some careful planning and adaptation.
What could be more nostalgic than the time-honored tradition of pulling out holiday decorations, revisiting the memories they spark, and making each area of the home fun and festive? It’s an activity everyone in the family can participate in. Yet there are some special considerations to keep in mind when someone you love is struggling with the challenges of dementia.
Enjoy decorating and other holiday traditions for seniors with dementia with these tips:
When decorating with a loved one who has dementia, simplicity is key. A complex decorating scheme can lead to confusion and frustration, so aim for straightforward tasks that allow for participation without overwhelming them.
Consider focusing on a few specific areas in the home rather than trying to decorate every room. Maybe you choose to adorn just the living room and the front door. Keeping it manageable helps prevent overstimulation.
Select decorations that are easy to handle and don’t require extensive assembly. For instance, opting for pre-lit garlands or simple ornaments can make the process smoother. This way, your loved one can feel involved without the stress of complicated tasks.
Holidays are steeped in tradition, and involving a loved one with dementia in familiar activities can help spark joy and comfort. Think about the decorations they have loved in the past. Perhaps they used to hang ornaments on the tree with you or bake special cookies together. Recreating these moments, even if simplified, can reignite warm memories.
As you decorate, talk about the significance of each item. Share stories behind certain ornaments or decorations, reinforcing their connection to family history. This makes the process more enjoyable and also allows for bonding over shared memories, even if those memories are fleeting.
Safety should always be a priority when decorating with a loved one who has dementia. As you bring out decorations, be mindful of potential hazards. Avoid decorations that are sharp, breakable, or could be choking hazards. If using lights or other electrical decorations, ensure that cords are tucked away and don’t pose a tripping risk.
Create a comfortable space where the person can participate in decorating without feeling overwhelmed. Designate a small area where they can help—maybe by sorting ornaments or placing non-breakable decorations on low tables. You can also incorporate sensory elements into the experience. Let them touch the textures of the decorations, smell seasonal scents like pine or cinnamon, and enjoy the vibrant colors of the holiday décor.
Patience and flexibility are essential in any activity with someone with dementia. There may be moments of confusion or forgetfulness, and that’s perfectly okay. Instead of feeling frustrated, take a deep breath and remind yourself that the goal is to create a joyful atmosphere, not to achieve perfection.
If the person seems overwhelmed or loses interest, take a break or shift activities. Consider incorporating short bursts of decorating followed by some relaxation time. This way, they can participate at their own pace and stop whenever they become tired.
Pay attention to the little things! Take time to celebrate any small victories, like hanging the first ornament or arranging the table. Engage in conversations about what they enjoy, and don’t hesitate to share your excitement for the season.
Capture these moments with photos. Not only does this create a keepsake to cherish, but it also allows the person to reminisce and feel involved in the holiday spirit long after the decorations are up.
The holidays may not look the same when a loved one has dementia, but the new traditions you create together can be just as meaningful. Remember that Responsive Home Care is here to help as well, before, during and after the holidays. Our specialized dementia care team goes above and beyond to make each day brighter for the individuals we serve.
Contact us to find out more about our in-home dementia care in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Parkland, and the surrounding areas in Broward County.
If dementia is causing someone you love to resist changing clothes, try these tactics.
It is a typical morning, and you’re helping Dad prepare for the day. You have selected a few options of outfits for him to choose from, but he balks and refuses to put on any of them. In fact, he’s been wearing the same clothes for a couple of days now, in spite of your gentle requests each day to change. Sound familiar? Many family caregivers encounter the daily struggle when dementia causes a loved one to resist changing clothes. The good news is that with a few helpful strategies and a good amount of patience, you can make this process easier. Read more
Find out your risk for inheriting Alzheimer’s, and the other factors in addition to genetics that come into play.
While you watch Mom having difficulty remembering your name or losing track of her daily routine, an unsettling thought might sneak into your mind: “Will I face this at some point too? Am I at risk for inheriting Alzheimer’s?” It’s normal to battle with the fear of facing similar issues as a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. We invite you to take a breath and consider the following risk factors, facts, and causes of Alzheimer’s and dementia to help empower you to work through these fears in order to find some peace of mind.
One of the initial items to consider is the role of inherited genes. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia, has a hereditary component. In accordance with the National Institute on Aging (NIA), people who have a family history of Alzheimer’s have a higher risk of developing the illness themselves. Still, it is important to remember that having a parent with Alzheimer’s doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you’ll get it as well.
There are two kinds of Alzheimer’s: early-onset and late-onset. Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, which appears between the ages of 30 and 60, can occasionally be associated with specific genetic mutations. These mutations are fairly rare and are usually passed directly from one generation to the next.
Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease, which arises after 60 years of age, is more common and also has a less clear genetic link. While genetics do play a role, other factors including environment and lifestyle are also noteworthy factors. Researchers are still examining the complicated interplay of these factors, however it’s believed that having a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s slightly raises your risk.
Although you can’t transform your genetics, you are able to change your lifestyle and environment. The same healthy practices that are best for your heart are also great for your brain. Participating in regular physical exercise, eating a healthy diet full of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, and not smoking can all lower your risk.
Also, staying socially and mentally active is also fundamental. Activities that challenge your brain, like puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, helps build cognitive reserve. Maintaining strong relationships and social interactions help with brain health, so keeping your mind engaged and active can perhaps delay the start of dementia symptoms.
Being proactive regarding your health also can provide peace of mind. Routine check-ups with your physician can help keep track of your cognitive health. If you have questions about your memory or other cognitive functions, discussing these with your doctor can lead to early detection and treatment.
You might also want to consider genetic testing to ascertain your risk. Although this can offer some information, it’s essential to approach it with caution. Learning about your genetic predisposition may be a double-edged sword, as it can cause unnecessary anxiety. It’s important to talk about the possible positives and negatives with a genetic counselor or your health care provider before proceeding.
If you are taking care of a loved one with dementia, understand that you’re not alone. Counseling and support groups can offer valuable information and emotional support. Taking care of your own mental and emotional health is equally as important as caring for your loved one.
Responsive Home Care is here to assist as well with an in depth library of resources to educate you and your family about Alzheimer’s as well as other forms of dementia. We also provide specialized dementia care services by highly trained, experienced, and skilled care professionals. Reach out to us at 954-486-6400 any time for more information on how we can help both you and your family member with dementia in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and throughout Broward County.
These effective dementia care tips will help someone you love gain self-confidence and independence.
When it comes to Alzheimer’s, it’s the little things that can make a big difference. Simple, thoughtful routines and reminders can transform daily life for the individual, bringing moments of calm and clarity. They help the person maintain their independence while creating a comforting rhythm that both of you can rely on. Here are some effective dementia care tips to enhance the well-being of someone with Alzheimer’s.
Know that caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is never something you should tackle alone. Our dementia care team is fully trained, experienced, and here to help you make life the best it can be for someone you love. Contact us any time at (954) 486-6440 to learn more about our skilled dementia care in Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Deerfield Beach, and throughout Broward County.
When someone with dementia is hiding things, you need to determine the root cause and implement these strategies to help.
We’ve all experienced that moment of utter panic when we cannot find our keys or wallet. It’s disorienting and frustrating. Now, picture this happening multiple times every day, coupled with an overwhelming sense of confusion and fear. This scenario is a common part of life for people with dementia. To make things even more unsettling, it could be that someone with dementia is hiding things themselves, usually in places you’re not likely to look.
Why might a person with dementia hide items? There are several key factors that might be at play.
Understanding the causes of this behavior can help you approach the situation with empathy and patience. Try:
We’re also here to partner with you to ease the root causes behind hiding items as well as other challenging effects of dementia. Get in touch with us at (954) 486-6440 for more information on our highly creative and specialized in-home dementia care in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas in Broward County.
Boost self-confidence for someone with dementia with these empowerment tips.
Common small successes for a person with dementia—like tying their own shoes or fixing what they want to have for lunch—can feel monumental. These experiences boost self-confidence for someone with dementia while strengthening their sense of identity in the middle of the difficulties they are facing. One important part of taking care of a senior loved one with dementia is to foster these opportunities, preserving the joy and dignity of independent living. Here are some tried-and-true tools to help.
Ensure the person’s home is safe and easy to get around. Small modifications, such as installing motion-sensor lights for better visibility at night and securing loose rugs, can help prevent falls and boost confidence. Introduce tools that streamline daily tasks—like ergonomic kitchenware that’s easier to hold—to help them feel competent and in control. Adding clear labels on drawers and cabinets can also guide them more easily through their day-to-day routine, decreasing confusion and promoting independence.
Tackle daily activities with patience and creativity. For example, if getting dressed independently becomes a problem, organize clothes in a sequence that makes it easier for them to understand and select outfits. Choose clothing with elastic waistbands or magnetic buttons to lessen frustration. Every small step they can do by themselves is a boost to their self-esteem. Providing visual aids or step-by-step instructions for more complex tasks can also help them maintain autonomy.
Exercise is a cornerstone of healthy living for all of us. Motivate your loved one to engage in doctor-approved exercises that are enjoyable and safe, like short walks in the park or light stretching at home. Adapt the intensity according to their ability, focusing on fun and the sense of accomplishment. Encourage regular schedules to help them build a routine that includes physical activity to enhance both their mobility and mood.
Utilize technology designed to maintain independence. Think about devices like simplified phone applications and GPS trackers which help manage everyday life without overwhelming them. These tools offer peace of mind to you both, ensuring safety while respecting their need for independence. Smart home devices that can control security, lighting, and temperature with simple commands can also improve their living environment and provide extra comfort.
Empathy goes a long way when caring for someone with dementia. Validate their perspectives and feelings, whether or not they are different from your own. Engaging in their reality helps decrease their stress and helps them feel respected and understood, strengthening their sense of self-worth. Regular, open conversations can help establish trust while making them more at ease in expressing their emotions and needs.
Fostering independence for someone with dementia improves their lives. Celebrate each victory, regardless of how small it might appear. It can truly make a significant difference!
Our dementia care experts, serving Fort Lauderdale, Lighthouse Point, Deerfield Beach, and the surrounding areas in Broward County, have additional tips to offer along with skilled hands-on care to help the person you love live their best life. We are just a phone call away at 954-486-6440.
Caring for someone with dementia means always searching for new ideas for dementia care, like the ones we’ve provided here!
Taking care of a loved one with dementia is unlike any other responsibility you will tackle. It requires you to dig deep down into your reserves of patience, flexibility, and perhaps most importantly, creativity. You need to be prepared to pivot at a moment’s notice from one strategy to another to promote a fulfilling and enriching life for the person you love, all while dealing with the more challenging facets of the disorder. It requires you to always be on the lookout for new ideas for dementia care that will make life as fulfilling as possible for the person you love.
Our highly trained dementia care team is here to offer support with some innovative tips you can easily implement to make every day the best it can be for a loved one with dementia.
Partner with our dementia care specialists for additional socialization opportunities, creative activities[JL4] specific to the person’s interests, and the chance for you to step away for some well-earned time to yourself. Serving Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas in Broward County, you can reach us any time at 954-486-6440.
Encouraging new research around Alzheimer’s treatment options offer hope for families.
One positive thing about Alzheimer’s disease is it has captured the attention of researchers everywhere who are motivated to discover new treatment options. When an individual you love is diagnosed with the disease, however, the urgency to find help is all the greater. If this is you, be encouraged! Though Aduhelm, the controversial treatment approved by the FDA in 2021, stirred debate and raised questions relating to its safety and effectiveness, researchers have been diligently working on alternative solutions that offer renewed hope.
2949 W. Cypress Creek Road
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
Phone: 954-486-6440
Toll Free: 888-544-6440
Fax: 954-486-6449
