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Caring for someone with dementia brings both rewards and challenges. While there's plenty of advice about what you should do, understanding what to avoid is equally important. At Ashberry Care Homes, our years of experience have taught us that certain approaches can unintentionally cause distress or confusion for people living with dementia. Let's explore three key things to avoid, and more importantly, what to do instead.
1. Never Argue or Contradict Their Reality
One of the most challenging aspects of dementia care is managing conversations when your loved one's perception of reality differs from yours. Whether they're convinced it's a different year, or they're waiting for someone who passed away years ago, contradicting their reality can cause significant distress.
Why it's harmful:
- Creates unnecessary anxiety and confusion
- Can damage trust in relationships
- May lead to agitation or withdrawal
- Could trigger emotional distress
Instead, focus on validating their emotions and meeting them in their reality. This approach, often called 'entering their world,' helps maintain connection and trust.
What to Do Instead
Learning to navigate these situations with empathy and understanding can make a significant difference in your interactions. The key is to respond to the emotion behind their words rather than the factual content.
Helpful approaches include:
- Acknowledging their feelings
- Using distraction when appropriate
- Finding ways to change the subject gently
- Focusing on comfort and reassurance
Remember, their reality is very real to them, and our role is to provide support and comfort rather than correction.
2. Never Rush or Pressure Them
In our fast-paced world, it's easy to forget that people with dementia often need more time to process information and complete tasks. Rushing or pressuring them can lead to anxiety, mistakes, and a loss of confidence.
Common rushing behaviours to avoid:
- Hurrying them through daily tasks
- Finishing their sentences
- Making decisions for them without involvement
- Showing impatience with repetitive questions
Taking a step back and allowing more time might actually save time in the long run by preventing distress and resistance.
3. Never Exclude Them from Conversations or Decisions
It's a common mistake to talk about your loved one as if they weren't present, or to make decisions without involving them. This can be deeply upsetting and can accelerate their loss of independence and self-worth.
Why this matters:
- Maintains dignity and self-respect
- Helps preserve cognitive function
- Keeps them engaged with their environment
- Supports emotional wellbeing
Creating inclusive conversations and decision-making processes helps maintain their sense of identity and worth.
Building Better Communication Habits
When someone has dementia, adapting our communication style becomes crucial. The way we speak and interact can make a significant difference to their understanding and emotional wellbeing.
Positive approaches include:
- Speaking clearly and at a comfortable pace
- Using simple, direct language
- Making eye contact and staying at their level
- Including non-verbal cues and gentle touch when appropriate
These communication techniques help create a supportive environment where your loved one feels valued and understood.
Alternative Approaches That Work
For each of the behaviours we should avoid, there are positive alternatives that can enhance your relationship and improve daily interactions with your loved one.
Instead of contradicting reality, try:
- Going with the flow of the conversation
- Using validation therapy techniques
- Finding creative ways to redirect attention
- Focusing on feelings rather than facts
These approaches help maintain trust and reduce anxiety for everyone involved.
Creating Positive Moments
Every interaction is an opportunity to create a positive experience. Rather than focusing on what not to do, concentrate on building meaningful connections.
Effective strategies include:
- Engaging in familiar activities together
- Sharing memories through photos or music
- Creating simple, achievable tasks
- Celebrating small successes
Remember that quality time doesn't always need words or activities – sometimes just being present is enough.
The Impact of Environment
The environment plays a crucial role in supporting positive interactions. Creating the right setting can help avoid many common challenges in dementia care.
Key environmental considerations:
- Reducing background noise during conversations
- Ensuring good lighting for better visibility
- Maintaining familiar surroundings where possible
- Creating clear visual cues for daily activities
A well-designed environment supports better communication and reduces anxiety.
Professional Support Makes a Difference
At Ashberry Care Homes, we understand the complexities of dementia care. Our experienced team specialises in creating positive environments and interactions that support both residents and their families.
We focus on:
- Training staff in best-practice dementia care
- Creating dementia-friendly environments
- Supporting families with guidance and education
- Maintaining dignity and independence
Our approach ensures that residents receive care that respects their individuality while supporting their changing needs.
Learning and Growing Together
Understanding what to avoid is just the beginning. Growing in your role as a carer means continuously learning and adapting to your loved one's changing needs.
Important aspects include:
- Staying informed about dementia care
- Seeking support when needed
- Sharing experiences with other carers
- Taking care of your own wellbeing
Remember, you're not alone on this journey.
How Ashberry Care Homes Can Help
Whether you're caring for someone at home or considering residential care, we're here to support you. Our expertise in dementia care means we can offer guidance, respite care, or full-time residential care when needed.
We offer:
- Expert advice and support
- Specialist dementia care services
- Family support programmes
- Regular updates and communication
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you provide the best possible care for your loved one with dementia.
Get in touch to:
- Arrange a visit to our homes
- Speak with our dementia care specialists
- Learn about our approach to person-centred care
- Access support and guidance for family carers
At Ashberry Care Homes, we're committed to supporting both residents and their families through the dementia journey. Let us help you develop the skills and confidence to create positive, meaningful interactions with your loved one.
