What is the cause of distress?
Dementia patients can be often agitated by their surroundings. Some examples include loud noises, social issues, sensory overload and personal space. Your gentle approach to determining what is going on internally will go a long way.
A good place to start is by checking the following:
- Have they eaten?
- Have they used the restroom?
- Are they in pain?
- Have they participated in the activities of the day?
Once you identify the root of the agitation, you're then able to prevent distress.
Why is it important to acknowledge their feelings?
Understanding where dementia patients are coming from and acknowledging their emotions will often help to identify any underlying issue or unmet need. While you determine if their emotion reflects a need that has yet to be met, make sure to deflect and distract to something more positive.
How valuable is the power of touch and choice?
Dementia patients can feel dehumanized when they are robbed of their ability to make choices because of a decline in cognition. Providing choices and honoring personal preferences can be a life changer. So often dementia patients are unable to verbally say what they want, but you can read it in their gestures and body language. It could be as simple as a gentle pat on their back, a trusting handhold or a warm embrace. The power of touch and choice provides the feeling of love—something that every person suffering with dementia can appreciate.
About the Expert
The Auberge memory care communities are specifically designed to serve the needs of individuals living with Alzheimer's disease, dementia and other forms of memory loss. Each community provides engaging purpose-filled activities that stimulate personal abilities that enhance mind, body and soul. Through their award-winning SPARK program, your loved one will receive round-the-clock care that encourages a happy, fulfilling lifestyle.
For more information about The Auberge locations in the greater Houston area which include The Auberge at Sugar Land, The Auberge at Cypresswood, The Auberge at Kingwood, The Auberge at Vintage Lake and The Auberge at The Woodlands, please visit frontiermgmt.com.
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