Supporting someone with dementia: practical tips for living well

Caring for someone with dementia can be both rewarding and challenging, but with the right approach, you can help them live as well as possible. It's important to focus on creating an environment that fosters independence, dignity, and quality of life. Here are some practical tips on how you can offer support:

1. Create a safe, familiar environment

A familiar, comfortable environment helps reduce confusion and anxiety for those living with dementia. Here’s how you can make their surroundings more dementia-friendly:

• Simplify the space: reduce clutter and keep everyday items, like keys, phones, or glasses, in the same place.

• Use clear labelling: place signs with pictures and words on doors, cupboards, or drawers to help with navigation.

• Minimise hazards: install grab bars, remove tripping hazards, and ensure lighting is bright to prevent falls.

By creating a space that feels safe and familiar, you can help your loved one feel more at ease.

2. Support their independence

Dementia may affect memory and cognitive abilities, but encouraging independence can help preserve a sense of control and dignity. Try these approaches:

• Encourage involvement in daily tasks: offer guidance rather than doing everything for them. Whether it's cooking a simple meal or helping with gardening, participating in activities can boost their self-esteem.

• Break tasks into smaller steps: provide clear, step-by-step instructions for more complex tasks. For instance, instead of saying, "Get dressed," say, "Put on your socks first, then your shirt."

• Use visual cues: demonstrate actions as you explain them, so they have both verbal and visual reminders of what to do.

Promoting independence, even in small ways, helps build confidence and reduces frustration.

3. Communicate with patience and understanding

Effective communication can be challenging when caring for someone with dementia, but with patience, you can improve connections.

• Speak clearly and calmly: use simple language and avoid complex sentences. Take your time, and don’t rush their response.

• Listen actively: be patient when waiting for an answer, and try to understand their emotions even if they’re struggling to find the right words.

• Non-verbal communication: sometimes, a smile, gentle touch, or nod can be more effective than words. Pay attention to their body language to gauge how they’re feeling.

Creating a calm, open space for communication builds trust and helps the person with dementia feel heard and understood.

4. Encourage meaningful activities

Engaging in enjoyable, stimulating activities is essential for maintaining a good quality of life. Tailor activities to their interests and abilities:

• Reminiscence therapy: looking at old photos or listening to music from their past can trigger happy memories and foster emotional connections.

• Art and creative outlets: drawing, painting, or crafting can be therapeutic and help express feelings they might struggle to put into words.

• Physical activities: gentle exercises like walking, chair yoga, or even dancing can improve mood, reduce agitation, and boost physical health.

Activities should be enjoyable and low-pressure, allowing the person with dementia to feel a sense of achievement.

5. Provide emotional support

Living with dementia can be frustrating and overwhelming, and providing emotional support is just as important as helping with daily tasks.

• Acknowledge their feelings: even if you can’t understand their emotions or thoughts, let them know that their feelings are valid. A simple, "I understand you’re upset" can be comforting.

• Be reassuring: reassurance and affirmation go a long way. Repeating statements like, "I’m here to help" or "You’re safe" can ease their anxiety during confusing moments.

• Focus on what they can do: instead of highlighting their limitations, celebrate the skills they retain and the joy they find in small things.

Offering emotional support builds a compassionate, trusting relationship that can reduce stress for both you and the person in your care.

6. Look after your own well-being

Supporting someone with dementia requires patience, empathy, and energy. It’s crucial to take care of yourself too:

• Take breaks: whether you're a professional carer or a family member, regular breaks are essential for avoiding burnout. Reach out to friends, family, or support networks when you need a rest.

• Stay informed: the more you learn about dementia, the better equipped you’ll be to handle changes and challenges. Read up on new techniques, and join carer support groups and online forums.

• Practice self-care: make time for activities you enjoy, get plenty of rest, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Taking care of yourself ensures that you can provide the best possible care for your loved one.