Here are some other ways that you can show emotional support to someone with dementia:
Don’t argue or dismiss fears
When caring for someone with dementia it’s easy to get involved in disagreements over fantasy versus reality. But that can cause distress to a person with dementia and is best avoided. For example, they might think that characters in a TV show are in their house and may not want the ‘unwanted guests’ in their home so will ask for them to leave. Rather than tell the person the ‘guests’ aren’t real or trying to explain that they’re characters from a TV show, just say you will get them to go. Turn the TV off and reassure that the situation has been resolved.
Embrace friendships
In the earlier stages of dementia it’s common for people to want to be as independent and busy as possible – despite their diagnosis they are still the same person. While it’s natural to focus on caring, it’s also crucial to help them lead a meaningful life, so empower the person to do as much for themselves as they can.
If they want to maintain hobbies like exercise or classes, try to support them in this – staying active is key in maintaining good mental health and overall wellbeing for people living with dementia.
Friendships are key, too. It’s very common for people with dementia to find their social circle shrinks as friends and relatives may not know how to handle their dementia, and sadly retreat. Try to help them to maintain a social life and interact with friends and loved ones who want to keep on seeing them.
Support them to be as socially active as possible – take them out to groups and community events in their area. You can find local ones here
Avoid sharing bad news
If you can, avoid sharing bad news or your own daily stresses with the person you’re caring for. It’s a good idea to avoid having the news on because they may hear upsetting stories, forget they’ve heard them, and hear them ‘for the first time’ every hour or so, which can upset them repeatedly.
If the person is feeling low and saying negative things, say you understand how they feel, but then try to make the conversation more upbeat. Change the subject if you have to or distract the person with the offer of a drink or a snack.
Stick to a regular routine
Setting a routine is an excellent way to support a person with dementia – they will find it comforting and reassuring. You can read more about routines here
Be aware that a person with dementia may not cope well with change to their routine, so during holiday periods, they may find life stressful. Different mealtimes and people coming and going can cause confusion and sometimes lead to distress or upset.
It will help if you try to follow the usual daily routine. Help them to get up at the same time (unless they have chosen to have a lie-in) and be consistent with mealtimes.
Offer praise
A person with dementia may suffer from a loss of confidence so praise can go a long way. They may feel frustrated that they can’t remember things or say what they want to say or feel like they don’t have much to contribute: so when they achieve something, tell them they’ve done well.
Invite opinion
You can help the person you’re caring for to feel valued by asking their opinion on things, even if you don’t need it.
Always try to put yourself in the person’s shoes and consider what support would make a difference to them in their situation.