Help the person to be active
Encourage the person to be active and take exercise most days. Walking, gardening, swimming or a local exercise class are good choices.
Ensure their diet is healthy
They may crave sweet foods, which can be common in a person with dementia. While it’s OK for them to have treats now and then, ensure they have lots of healthy foods. Offer them fruits, vegetables and smaller meals more often if they struggle with larger meals.
Keep the person hydrated
Ensure they stay hydrated, as not drinking enough water can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs). If they don’t like plain water or water-rich fruits like strawberries, oranges, and peaches, serve juices or cordial drinks.
Maintain a consistent routine
A set routine is beneficial for a person with dementia. Changes in routine can cause confusion and even distress. Stick to the same routine – serve meals at the same time and encourage the person to get up and go to bed at the same time each day. Don’t change the person’s routine unless it’s unavoidable, such as taking them to a medical appointment.
Help the person get enough sleep
A person with dementia can confuse night with day, especially in the summer. This can mean they’re awake very early in the morning when it gets light. They may wake often at night and be exhausted during the day. Encourage the person to nap during the day to catch up on sleep.
Encourage regular medical checks
Ensure the person has medical check-ups at least once a year, preferably twice. The GP should look at their medication and ensure it’s still the right choice for them. They should also have their blood pressure checked. In addition, they should have dental, eyesight, and hearing checks each year.
Is it safe for a person with dementia to drink alcohol?
Many people enjoy a tipple now and then. The person with dementia may want to have a glass of wine with a meal when they eat out or share a drink with friends. It’s understandable that they won’t necessarily want to give it up if it's an indulgence they enjoyed before. So, is alcohol a good idea for a person with dementia?
While alcohol can interfere with medications and their effectiveness, the decision depends on the person’s health. If they ask for a drink and you’re unsure if it’s safe for them, ask their family if it’s OK for them to have an occasional tipple. Find out how it affects them and if it’s wise from their family’s perspective. It’s also worth checking the prescription information and speaking to their GP.
If there are no alcohol restrictions on their medications but you’re worried about the amount they are drinking, suggesting they cut back may not be effective. They may drink excessively due to forgetfulness, boredom, or depression.
If you suspect boredom is a factor, keep the person engaged with activities or tasks around when they want a drink. Distract them where you can.
If you think the person is drinking because they are depressed, encourage and support them to exercise. Try to get them to open up about their feelings.
Alternatively, offer the person zero or low-alcohol alternatives.