There are nearly 10 million new cases of dementia around the world each year. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia and makes up for almost three-quarters of dementia cases. Finding out you have a parent with dementia can be exceptionally daunting news. 

As you begin to see the early sign of dementia you can quickly begin to feel overwhelmed. The stigma around dementia is full of sadness and confusion. Dealing with a parent with dementia can be a difficult task at times, but it is far from fruitless.

Let’s take a look at 5 helpful tips from professional dementia caretakers and how you can maintain the loving relationship between you and your parent. 

1. Speak Openly and Tentatively With Your Parent

One of the most important things in any relationship, but especially when dealing with a parent with dementia is that you communicate openly and honestly. It’s important that you voice your concerns as well as listen to the worries of your parent.

Receiving a diagnosis of dementia can be a scary time for both parties. You must continue to talk and listen to each other. You should always make decisions together where possible. Don’t ever try to keep anything a secret from your parent.

2. Help to Maintain Social Ties

Dementia can be made a lot worse by social isolation. Sadly, it’s very easy for people suffering from dementia to socially withdraw. People who don’t understand dementia can be intimidated and stop visiting simply because they don’t know what to do.

Speak to friends and members of the family and educate them about dementia. Help them feel comfortable and encourage them to visit. Look into groups and activities that your parent can attend regularly.  

3. Change Your Interaction Techniques

It’s time to ditch the arguments and fast-paced conversations. You need to find a more relaxing and mindful way to interact with your parent. Some simple ways to help you interact with your parent with dementia include:

• Keep a quiet environment
• Play soft, relaxing music
• Maintain eye contact
• Speaking in a slow and calm manner
• Look through photo albums together
• Utilize touch, body language, and hand gestures
• Accept silence

Pay close attention to your parent’s body language and other non-verbal cues. Sometimes it can be difficult for people with dementia to find the right words to express themselves.

4. Plan for the Future

Dementia is a degenerative disease so it’s important to plan, early on. Speak earnestly with your parent about the future and try to make decisions early. Accept that your parent’s caregiver needs are likely to change and discuss what they would like later on.

5. Accept Help

Dealing with a parent with dementia can very quickly become a full-time job. It’s important not to try and take it all on alone. From physical needs to dealing with finances, it can all quickly get too much. Reach out to family members for support and don’t be afraid to seek professional support from places like findcontinuingcare.com.

Caring for a Parent With Dementia 

Dealing with a parent with dementia shouldn’t feel like a losing battle. By adopting these 5 simple tips you can help relieve the strain of caring for a parent with dementia. Parents with Alzheimer’s are still parents, and now it’s your time to return the unconditional love they showed you when you needed them.

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