People with dementia often need help with daily tasks and the amount of assistance they need will change over time. They may feel upset about losing their independence and be resistant to accepting help. However by involving them in the process, you can overcome some of these challenges.  Here are strategies to support you in providing the best care for your loved one.

Remember:

• Be patient and take your time.  Don’t rush your loved one to complete a task. 

• Try to maintain a routine so that it becomes familiar and comfortable for your loved one. However, recognize when it is not working and adapt the process. 

• Provide simple, step-by-step instructions so as not to overwhelm them with information, and provide reassurance throughout the process. 

• Encourage your loved one to do as much as possible and include them in the task. 

  • Try to move slowly and remain in your loved one’s field of vision.

  • Stand at eye level and make eye contact when speaking with them.

  • Engage your loved one and work the task into a conversation instead of saying it as a command.

  • Use gestures to accompany your words.

  • Respect your loved one’s opinions and desires. Don’t argue or talk down to them. 

• Create the right environment and plan your approach. Identify obstacles and health considerations

• If the person is upset or does not want your help, try again later as if it were the first time.

Use Assistive Devices

• A physical therapist can instruct you on safe and appropriate methods for transferring and walking, as well as identify assistive devices to help you and your loved one. Ask the doctor for a referral. 

• A transfer or gait belt provides additional support to your loved one as they stand up and walk and provides you with a safe grip on them. 

• Assistive devices like lift chairs , lift seats, and wedge pillows can help your loved one get out of a chair or bed. 

• Transfer boards and hoyer lifts may also be used to help someone out of bed. 

• Walkers, canes, and wheelchairs can assist with mobility and reduce falls. Consult with a physical therapist or other medical provider to ensure it is properly fitted. 

Clear Pathways

• Keep pathways free of obstacles and clutter to reduce the risk of tripping.

• Make sure pathways are clearly defined and do not require maneuvering about furniture and other obstacles. 

• Remove unstable or fragile objects that your loved one may grab onto while walking. 

Involve Your Loved One

• Encourage your loved one to participate when possible. Provide step-by-step instructions and let them know each step as you are completing it. 

• If they are weak on one side, stay on that side to provide support. 

• Give the person something to hold, such as a washcloth, while being moved. The person will be less likely to grab onto you or the furniture. 

• Be gentle and avoid rushing or moving your loved one too quickly. 

• Use non-verbal cues, such as gentle gestures and visual cues, to guide them.

Be Aware of Your Body Position

• Know your limits when lifting or moving your loved one and don’t try to do too much. 

• Bend at the knees and then straighten up by using your thigh muscles, not your back.

• Keep your back straight. Don’t bend at the waist.

• Hold your loved one as close to you as possible to avoid reaching away from your body.

• Place one foot in front of the other, or space your feet comfortably apart for a wide base of support.

• Take small steps to move the person from one seat to another. 

• Don’t twist your body.

• Review this document for step-by-step instructions on the different types of transfers.