How to Create Meaningful Holiday Traditions for Seniors With Dementia

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An older man and his wife hang a wreath on their front door, showcasing the joy of holiday traditions for seniors with dementia.

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:

Simplify the Process

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.

Involve Them in Meaningful Traditions

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.

Create a Safe and Comfortable Environment

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.

Be Patient and Flexible

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.

Celebrate Small Moments of Joy

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.

Creating New Traditions Together

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.

Is Dementia Causing a Loved One to Resist Changing Clothes? Try These Tips!

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An older man considers whether to put on a clean shirt or to resist changing clothes.

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

Effective Dementia Care Tips: Using Routines and Reminders

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A woman utilizes one of many effective dementia care tips by posting reminder notes on her refrigerator, pointing them out to an older man.

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.

  • Consistent Daily Routines: A consistent daily routine provides a sense of stability and predictability, which is extremely comforting for someone with Alzheimer’s. Try to schedule activities like meals, bathing, and bedtime at the same times each day. This regularity helps to reinforce memory and create a calming environment. Keep the routine simple and avoid making too many changes, as this can be confusing and unsettling.
  • Visual Reminders: Visual reminders are effective tools for helping someone with Alzheimer’s navigate their day. Use large, easy-to-read calendars and clocks to display the date and time. Label drawers, cabinets, and rooms with pictures or words to assist with locating items and moving around the home. Place reminder notes in key locations, such as on the bathroom mirror or next to the coffee maker, to prompt daily activities.
  • Digital Aids: Technology can play a crucial role in supporting someone with Alzheimer’s. Digital devices, like smartphones and tablets, offer a range of applications designed to set reminders and alarms. Use these tools to schedule medication times, appointments, and daily tasks. Tech tools can also be used to provide verbal reminders and answer questions, offering additional support throughout the day.
  • Simplified Tasks: Breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable steps can help your family member feel more accomplished and self-confident. For example, instead of saying, “Let’s get dressed,” guide them through each step: “Pick out your shirt,” “Put your arms through the sleeves,” and so on. Offering clear, simple instructions reduces confusion and promotes independence.
  • Engaging Activities: Incorporate activities that the person enjoys into their daily routine. Engaging in familiar hobbies, such as gardening, cooking, or listening to music, can provide a sense of purpose and enjoyment. Ensure these activities are safe and suitable for their current abilities.
  • Patience and Flexibility: While routines and reminders are beneficial, it’s essential to remain patient and flexible. Alzheimer’s can be unpredictable, and the person will have good and bad days. Adjust the routine as needed, and always approach each situation with understanding and compassion.

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: Tips to Help

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An older man peers into a cabinet with a confused look on his face, a common occurrence when someone with dementia is hiding things.

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.

  • Loss of organizational skills: It might become challenging for someone with dementia to understand the purpose of everyday objects or recall where they go. Hiding items can be a misdirected attempt at organization, a way to manage the daunting task of keeping tabs on their environment.
  • Suspicion and paranoia: Dementia often brings about a heightened sense of suspicion and paranoia. Your loved one may become suspicious of those around them, fearing that others might steal their possessions. This increased sense of mistrust can prompt them to hide their belongings in an attempt to protect them.
  • Memory issues and confusion: Hiding items can be a manifestation of the confusion and loss of memory that accompanies dementia. As memory fades, a person with dementia may no longer recall where they put their belongings, leading them to hide items in what seems like a secure spot. This action can give them a sense of security and help reduce their anxiety about losing things.
  • Need for engagement: Rummaging and hiding is often a form of engagement or activity for someone with dementia. As they lose the ability to take part in more complex activities, these simpler actions can provide a feeling of purpose and occupation. These activities can fill their time and trigger a sense of accomplishment.

Understanding the causes of this behavior can help you approach the situation with empathy and patience. Try:

  • Creating a secure and structured environment: Make sure that their living space is organized and free of hazards. Consistency in how furniture and personal items are arranged can minimize confusion and make it easier for them to find the things they need.
  • Providing engaging, meaningful activities: Keep their minds and hands busy with activities that are right for their abilities and interests. Simple tasks like sorting, folding, or working with sensory objects can be both calming and fulfilling.
  • Labeling common hiding spots: Clearly label storage areas, drawers, and cupboards. This can act as a helpful reminder of where things belong and can minimize the likelihood of items being hidden in unusual places.
  • Maintaining a routine: A predictable daily routine can offer a sense of security and reduce anxiety. Regularly scheduled activities, meals, and rest times can help create a structured environment that feels safe and familiar.

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.

How to Boost Self-Confidence for Someone With Dementia

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An older woman smiles as she dries a dish in the kitchen, thanks to a caregiver who knew how to boost self-confidence for someone with dementia.

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.

Create a Supportive Environment

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.

Break Up Tasks

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.

Promote Regular Exercise

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.

Leverage Helpful Technology

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.

Engage With Empathy

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.

New Ideas for Dementia Care That Make a Difference

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A caregiver utilizing music as one of a number of new ideas for dementia care listens to headphones with a happy older woman.

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.

  • Montessori methods: Adapt Montessori principles to create meaningful and engaging activities that stimulate cognitive function and promote independence.
  • The hand-under-hand technique: When assisting with tasks, gently place your hand underneath the person’s hand to support them, promoting a feeling of control and dignity.
  • Red tableware: Studies show that using red plates and cups may increase intake of food in people who have dementia by enhancing contrast and visibility of food.
  • Light therapy: Exposure to sunlight or specialized light therapy devices can help regulate sleep patterns and improve mood in those with dementia.
  • Tailored storytelling: Customize familiar stories to incorporate specifics from the individual’s past. For instance, if the person loved fishing at a certain lake, weave the name of the lake into a story you’re telling to spark memories and conversations.
  • Biophilic design: Incorporate aspects of nature, such as plants or nature-inspired artwork, into the living environment to create a calming and familiar atmosphere.
  • Reminiscence boxes: Create personalized boxes full of meaningful objects or photos from the individual’s past to spark memories and facilitate reminiscing.
  • The magic of music: Music is a remarkably effective tool you’ll likely want to turn to over and over again. This can involve creating a playlist of the person’s favorite songs to sing and dance to together, playing instruments, attending concerts (in person or online), etc.
  • Adaptive games: Adjust simple games like memory matching, puzzles, and bingo to accommodate cognitive changes. For instance, use larger, easy-to-handle pieces for puzzles or vibrant colored cards for bingo to improve visibility and ease of use.
  • Customized workout routines: Incorporate gentle, guided exercises that match the person’s current physical abilities and help maintain mobility. Talk to the person’s doctor for recommendations.
  • Soothing scents: Aromatherapy can work wonders in providing a relaxing effect to decrease anxiety and agitation. Try scents like lavender, peppermint, or vanilla.
  • Virtual reality (VR): VR experiences tailored to the individual’s interests and abilities can offer immersive and therapeutic experiences, triggering memories and boosting mood.
  • Sensory stimulation: Engage the senses with tactile activities like folding clothes or working in the garden, which can soothe and ground those 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.

Beyond Aduhelm: New Alzheimer’s Treatment Options on the Horizon

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An image of a human brain shows a missing puzzle piece that new Alzheimer’s treatment options aim to fill.

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.

Read more

Rethinking the Dementia Diagnosis Conversation

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An older woman receiving a dementia diagnosis is comforted and encouraged by her doctor.

Learn how doctors are changing the landscape of discussions surrounding a dementia diagnosis.

A dementia diagnosis is never easy. It is the start of a difficult rollercoaster of emotions, all of which are heightened if the diagnosis is given starkly, without compassion or empathy. There are steps doctors can (and should) take when delivering a dementia diagnosis to ease the initial impact, empowering and equipping the individual and family with support and knowledge.

Below are a few of the ways physicians are striving to improve how they talk about dementia, and why it matters.

  • Empathy First: Instead of jumping directly to medical jargon and statistics, doctors are now starting conversations with empathy and understanding. They recognize the emotional impact of a dementia diagnosis and strive to create a secure space for individuals and their family members to express their concerns and fears. In addition to this empathetic approach, physicians are also supporting open dialogue about the practical aspects of managing dementia, like daily routines and available support services.
  • Education as Empowerment: Doctors are shifting towards an educational approach, arming patients and families with knowledge about dementia. By explaining the disorder in accessible language and offering resources for further learning, they empower individuals to better navigate the journey ahead. There’s also an emphasis on the need for proactive measures, such as lifestyle adjustments and early intervention strategies, to improve wellbeing and delay the progression of the disease.
  • Person-Centered Caregiving: Acknowledging that every individual’s experience with dementia is different, doctors are shifting towards a person-centered approach to care. Ideally, they are engaging patients in discussions about their preferences, values, and goals, ensuring that care plans are tailored to the person’s needs and wishes. This customized approach extends beyond medical treatment to cover holistic support, including emotional wellbeing and social connectedness, fostering a feeling of dignity and autonomy.
  • Supportive Networks: Doctors are increasingly connecting patients and families with supportive networks and resources within the community. Whether it’s caregiver support groups, dementia-friendly activities, or specialized services, these networks provide important emotional and practical support throughout the dementia journey. Doctors should also be advocating for the involvement of family caregivers in care planning and decision-making, recognizing their invaluable role in providing continuity of care and enhancing the person’s quality of life.
  • Ongoing Communication: The conversation does not end with the initial diagnosis. Doctors should be dedicated to ongoing communication with patients and families, providing updates on the advancement of the disease, discussing treatment plans, and offering support each step of the way. This ongoing dialogue fosters trust and collaboration, empowering individuals and their families to make educated decisions and adapt to the evolving challenges of dementia caregiving.

If you suspect a loved one may be in the early stages of dementia, or if they have already been diagnosed, it’s essential to find a doctor that follows best practices such as these. It’s just as important to partner with a home care provider with specialized expertise in the unique needs of caring for someone with dementia.

At Responsive Home Care, our dementia care team is fully trained, highly skilled, and well known as the experts in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Lighthouse Point, and the surrounding areas. Our innovative approach to care promotes independence, respect, and dignity. Contact us at 954-486-6440 to learn more.

5 Things to Avoid Saying to a Loved One With Dementia

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A young woman hugs a loved one with dementia.

Try these tips to improve communication with a loved one with dementia.

Have you ever said the wrong thing? Maybe your objective was to compliment a friend on her new haircut, but you came across sounding like you were criticizing her previous hairstyle. Selecting our words carefully is always important, but even more so when speaking with a loved one with dementia. The words we say as well as the way we say them can significantly impact the person’s emotional well-being and quality of life.

Here are five things never to say to a person with dementia, along with alternative approaches to foster understanding and connection:

  1. “Do you remember…?” Asking someone with dementia to remember specific details can lead to embarrassment or anxiety if they cannot remember. Instead, provide gentle prompts or share your own memories to spark conversation without putting pressure on them to remember. For example, say, “I remember when we went to that restaurant together. It was such a lovely evening,” allowing them to engage in the conversation without feeling pressured to recall specific details.
  2. “You’re wrong.” Invalidating a person’s thoughts or memories may cause frustration and distress. Rather than dismissing their reality, validate their feelings and experiences. For instance, say, “I understand that you see it that way,” or redirect the conversation to a different topic. By acknowledging their perspective, you validate their emotions and maintain a sense of connection.
  3. “You just told me that.” Continuously pointing out their forgetfulness can be counterproductive and hurtful. Instead, practice patience and respond as if it’s the first time you have heard the information. This approach preserves their dignity and reduces feelings of frustration. You can say, “Thank you for sharing that with me,” and continue the conversation without dwelling on their forgetfulness.
  4. “You don’t have dementia.” Minimizing or denying their condition can lead to feelings of confusion and isolation. It’s essential to acknowledge their reality while offering support and reassurance. Express empathy and assure them that you are there to help navigate any challenges they might face. You could say, “I’m here to support you through this journey, no matter what comes our way.”
  5. “You’re being difficult.” Labeling their behavior as difficult or challenging can escalate tension and hinder effective communication. Instead, approach them with kindness and understanding. Identify the underlying needs or emotions driving their behavior and respond with patience and empathy. For example, say, “I can see that you are feeling frustrated. Let’s take a moment to figure out how we can make things better together.”

Communication can become very challenging as dementia progresses. Let our highly trained, knowledgeable dementia care specialists help. Contact us at (954) 486-6440 for more information on our specialized care for people who have dementia in Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Deerfield Beach, and the surrounding areas. We understand the unique needs of individuals living with dementia and are dedicated to providing thoughtful care that promotes dignity and quality of life.

Is It Time for 24-Hour Alzheimer’s Care?

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A woman considering 24-hour Alzheimer’s care embraces her mother.

24-hour Alzheimer’s care empowers individuals to continue living at home safely and independently.

Caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s disease requires continuous adaptation to the person’s changing needs. As the condition progresses, there comes a point when 24-hour Alzheimer’s care becomes not only beneficial but necessary for ensuring the safety, well-being, and good quality of life for the person.

Here are key indicators that signal the appropriateness of transitioning to round-the-clock care:

  • Safety Concerns: One of the primary reasons behind considering 24-hour Alzheimer’s care is an escalation in safety concerns. Wandering, forgetting to turn off appliances, or experiencing challenges with activities of everyday living increases the risk for injuries or accidents.
  • Sleep Disturbances: As dementia progresses, sleep patterns often become disrupted. Nighttime confusion, wandering, or agitation may lead to sleep deprivation for the individual and you as their caregiver, impacting overall health and well-being.
  • Inability to Perform Basic Tasks: When the person starts to have trouble with basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, or eating, 24-hour care ensures consistent support for these activities, promoting dignity and empowering the individual to maintain the highest possible quality of life.
  • Decline in Physical Health: Dementia can affect an individual’s physical health, resulting in challenges with mobility, coordination, and self-care. Round-the-clock care ensures prompt help with any physical needs which could arise.
  • Medical Monitoring Requirements: Some people with dementia may have underlying health conditions that necessitate regular monitoring. Continuous care allows for close observation of medical needs and timely intervention.
  • Frequent Hospitalizations: If the individual is experiencing numerous hospitalizations as a result of complications related to dementia, 24-hour care may be necessary to provide consistent monitoring and preventive measures.
  • Communication Barriers: Advanced dementia often results in communication difficulties. Professional caregivers experienced in communicating with those who have dementia can enhance the individual’s overall quality of life and minimize frustration.
  • Caregiver Burnout: The demands of providing care for a person with dementia can be overwhelming. If you’re experiencing exhaustion or other signs and symptoms of caregiver burnout or depression, it may be an indicator that 24-hour care is needed.
  • Increased Behavioral Challenges: Aggression, agitation, or challenging behaviors may increase as dementia progresses. Professional caregivers trained in managing these behaviors can provide a more secure environment and prevent potential harm.

Note that if the individual’s behaviors are causing you or the person to be in danger of harm, it is a good idea to investigate care home options, where multiple caregivers are readily available to ensure everyone’s safety.

At Responsive Home Care, we provide specialized dementia care from skilled, trained, and experienced care professionals, customized to the needs of the individual. During the early stages of the disease, this may mean just a couple of hours of help and support. Once the disease progresses, we can increase the level of care to ensure comfort and safety, up to and including 24-hour Alzheimer’s care.

Contact us online or call us any time at 954-486-6440 to learn more about our in-home dementia care in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Lighthouse Point, or the surrounding areas.

Why Meal Prep Is a Great Activity for Someone With Alzheimer’s

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A young woman smiles over the shoulder of an older loved one as she rolls out biscuit dough, a great activity for someone with Alzheimer’s.

Working together on the tasks related to preparing meals can be an incredibly beneficial activity for someone with Alzheimer’s.

There is something so special about the kitchen. It’s the first stop kids make once they arrive home from school, in search of a snack as well as the chance to share about their day. It is the spot family members gather to cook holiday meals together. It’s also a place to heat up a cup of milk and find some quiet, reflective solace when sleep is elusive. And, it’s a great place to engage in a meaningful activity for someone with Alzheimer’s.

For a person with dementia, the kitchen can bring to mind cherished memories. Cooking engages all of the senses, making it an excellent activity to unlock the doors of reminiscence. The rhythmic chopping of vegetables, the sizzle of ingredients in a pan, and the tantalizing smell of a well-seasoned dish can stir happy memories, sparking joy and connection.

If you’d like to add culinary techniques to your dementia care toolbox, these suggestions will help.

  • Keep it simple. Use uncomplicated recipes with familiar ingredients to build a sense of accomplishment. If the person has a box of recipes or favorite cookbook, this is a fantastic place to begin. Pull out several recipe options that would be easy to prepare, and then see which ones may spark interest. Or, you can search on the internet for simple recipes according to the person’s particular tastes.
  • Make it personal. Think about the preferences and capabilities of the individual. Activities such as kneading dough, rolling out cookies, or tossing a salad can be empowering, confidence-boosting, and reinforce a sense of purpose while triggering memories.
  • Organize in advance. A structured approach, with ingredients lined up and ready and step-by-step instructions provided, will help ensure a more seamless and enjoyable experience.
  • Stay social. The idea should be to make the activity a time of togetherness, transforming the kitchen into a warm space where stories are exchanged, laughter is shared, and bonds are strengthened.

The end goal should never be to create a Pinterest-worthy culinary production. Rather, focus on all the senses being used and draw on any memories that may come to the surface.

Perhaps, for example, you are making an apple pie. You can talk about how smooth the crust feels while you roll it out and the powdery flour that puffs into the air while you sprinkle it on the dough. Point out the sound of the apples being chopped, the delicious cinnamon butter aroma as the pie bakes. And of course, enjoy a piece of the finished product together, encouraging any stories along the way that the individual would like to share.

At Responsive Home Care, our experienced dementia caregivers are on hand to implement a culinary activity for someone with Alzheimer’s, or a wide variety of other creative and meaningful pastimes. Contact us at 954-486-6440 for more information on our dementia care services in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas.

Reality Orientation in Dementia: The Pro and the Cons

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A caregiver helps guide a senior with dementia through reality orientation.

Reality orientation can help loved ones with dementia through confusion.

Did you ever wake up in the middle of a dream and wonder, just for a moment, if what you were dreaming about was real? It can feel very disorienting until you open your eyes and take in your familiar surroundings. An experience like this can give you just a brief glimpse into the ongoing disorientation for a person with dementia. When confusion about time, place, and even identity settle in for a person you love, you’re faced with two options for responding: either stepping into their reality with them, or practicing reality orientation for someone with dementia.

Which Reality Is Best?

In a nutshell, each approach has its place in dementia care. However, there are specific cautions to understand when using reality orientation for someone with dementia. It is important to first understand what is involved with both options and when they could be most appropriate.

Accepting Their Reality

Living in an alternate reality is quite typical for a person in the mid to later stages of dementia. The individual may believe they are a young adult engaged in their previous career (or a different one altogether), with a spouse and young children to look after. Going along with their perception of reality helps them maintain a feeling of self-worth and purpose. It instills comfort and peace, and it is often the recommended approach.

Orienting Them to Your Reality

On the other hand, reality orientation involves providing cues and prompts about the current time, date, and place. Studies have shown that it can improve cognitive functioning, especially when combined with donepezil, and help with some of the more difficult aspects of dementia.

However, reality orientation should be handled gently with compassion, skill, and awareness of the person’s emotional state. For example, if the person asks where their mother is, it could be extremely harmful to respond, “Why, she died 40 years ago! You are 95 years old, so there is no way your mother could still be alive.” In contrast, reality orientation may be effective in ordinary conversations. For instance, if the individual wakes up and asks what day it is, you might respond, “Today is Friday, the day you have your exercise class and then dinner with Steve.”

If the person seems to become agitated or anxious with reality, it’s always best to join them in the perceived reality that feels comfortable to them.

Our specially trained caregivers are pros at knowing how to effectively engage someone with dementia and make each day the best it can be. We utilize imaginative, customized approaches that help with memory, communication, safety, and comfort, while encouraging independence and a sense of purpose and self-worth.

Reach out to us at (954) 486-6440 for more information on our dementia care in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas.