Over 11 million people gave 18.4 billion hours of special unpaid care to those with Alzheimer’s or dementia in 2023. These statistics show how much time and effort families put into caring for loved ones with this condition.
Unfortunately, fewer people are available to provide care today than a decade ago.
Even more, those who are available are often overwhelmed. A nursing care plan for dementia can be a lifesaver for families in this situation. It helps you manage day-to-day tasks and reduce stress.
Unsure about the best care for your loved one with dementia? This article will take you through the elements of a personalized care plan. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Understanding Dementia: An Overview
Dementia is a general term for conditions affecting memory, thinking, and behavior. It gets worse over time and makes daily life harder. Common symptoms include forgetting things, confusion, and trouble with language.
In the early stage, people might forget things but can still do most things on their own. Later in the middle stage, memory problems worsen, making it harder to do daily tasks. In the late stage, people need a lot of help with everyday things.
Early diagnosis of dementia helps doctors understand what’s happening and find the right treatments. The diagnosis can make a big difference in how the patient feels and how well they can do everyday things. It also gives families time to plan for nursing care for dementia and find peer support groups.
Prerequisites for a Nursing Care Plan
You need to know exactly what you’re dealing with when creating dementia care plans. Talk to doctors to figure out what type of dementia your loved one has and how far it has progressed. Doctors and other healthcare providers can give you important advice on how to handle the challenges of dementia.
Think about what kind of life you want for your loved one and what you can do to make that happen. These objectives include keeping your loved one active, helping them with daily tasks, or simply making them happy. Ensure they consider the stage of dementia and the person’s abilities.
It’s also crucial to involve the person with dementia in the planning process as much as possible. Even in the later stages, they can still express their preferences and needs. Respect your loved one’s choices and involve them in decision-making to help maintain their sense of dignity.
Medication Management
Medications can be a big part of family dementia caregiving. Give your loved one with dementia the right medicines at the right time to help manage their symptoms. Communities like SummerHouse Bay Cove can help you with this, even though they can’t give out prescriptions.
Keeping track of all the medicines someone needs can take time and effort. Using pill organizers or setting alarms can help. It’s also a good idea to write down when and how much medicine to give.
It’s important to watch for any side effects or changes in how the medicines are working. Talk to your doctor if you notice anything different. Remember, seeking help is okay if you feel overwhelmed.
Daily Living Activities and Safety Measures
As dementia progresses, patients may find it increasingly difficult to do everyday things like bathing, getting dressed, eating, and using the toilet. So, help them in a way that makes them feel good about themselves. Talk to them and give them the freedom to make choices so they feel more in control.
Making changes to your home can make it safer for someone with dementia. Little things like putting bars on the wall in the bathroom can help prevent falls. Taking away rugs and ensuring there’s enough light can also help keep them safe.
People with dementia sometimes wander off so safe and secure living is a priority. Putting a fence around your yard or using alarms can help. Inside, you can use locks on doors to keep them safe. If they get upset easily, try to keep things calm and the same every day — soft music and gentle touches can help.
Cognitive and Emotional Support
Keeping the mind active is crucial for people with dementia. Activities like puzzles, games, music, and art can help improve thinking and memory. For example, playing cards or listening to old songs can bring back happy memories.
Either way, choose senior activities and events they enjoy and do them often. Be kind and patient and talk to a counselor to help you and your loved one deal with the challenges of the disease. You may also join a support group to connect with like-minded people.
Involving Family and Caregivers
Family members play a big role in dementia patient support. Everyone needs to talk openly and make decisions together. Collaboration helps create a care plan that works for everyone.
Since taking care of someone with dementia can be overwhelming, it’s okay to ask for help. Some assisted living communities can help you take a break. Taking care of yourself by doing things you enjoy is also important.
Using Community Resources and Regular Review
Your neighborhood likely offers various supportive services for those with dementia and their caregivers. These include daytime activity centers and support groups where caregivers can share experiences. It’s important to regularly review and adjust the care plan as needs change over time.
Talk to a financial advisor about how to pay for care and other expenses. It’s also a good idea to talk to a lawyer about legal matters, like who will make decisions if your loved one can’t. By exploring these dementia care plan tips, families can create a supportive and nurturing environment.
Let’s Help You Create a Nursing Care Plan for Dementia in Biloxi, MS
A nursing care plan for dementia can be a valuable tool for families navigating this challenging journey. By providing structure and guidance, it empowers them to make rational decisions and improve the quality of life for their loved ones. Remember, you are not alone, and resources are available to support you every step of the way.
Need help caring for someone with dementia?
SummerHouse Bay Cove understands your challenges and offers personalized support with an experienced team that will create a care plan that works for your loved one. Schedule a tour today to see how we can help.
