How to Improve Quality of Life Whilst Living with Dementia
Living with dementia can be debilitating. It can diminish the quality of life for its sufferers as they experience memory loss, social changes, behavioural changes, and cognitive impairment.
It is estimated that almost 1.6 million people in Australia are caring for someone living with dementia.
The good news is that you can do things to help your loved one improve their quality of life.
Do those who have dementia need a care routine?
A common cause of agitation in dementia patients is not being able to recall their routine. Establishing a set routine around critical tasks (such as meals, medications, hygiene, exercise, and other daily activities) will help keep your loved one feeling safe and comfortable.
A routine could be as simple as the order in which daily tasks are done. Mornings could consist of waking up, going to the bathroom, getting dressed, brushing your teeth and hair, and having breakfast.
Routines and rituals reduce anxiety in dementia suffers by providing them with predictability and knowing what comes next.
Having a familiar routine also gives back independence. Completing activities that form part of the routine and can be done independently gives a sense of accomplishment.
What kind of physical activity is good for dementia?
Providing your loved one with opportunities for physical activity can help them fight or stave off the symptoms of dementia. This can be done by encouraging them to do the following activities:
Walking
Swimming
Strength and resistance training
Flexibility exercises such as Pilates and yoga
Balance exercise
Gardening
It is recommended that adults participate in 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. If you are unsure of what exercises are suitable for you, always consult your doctor.
Does socialisation help dementia?
Socialisation for those living with dementia is much more than a connection with people. It also connects them time and place and keeps them in the present.
Increasing socialisation with friends and family can help those who have dementia in many different ways, such as:
Supporting brain health
Strengthens the connection to time and place
Sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation
Try visiting them more often and talk on the phone regularly. Reach out to people you know, like friends and neighbours, who might be able to see your loved one too.
Being involved in activities that are meaningful to them can also be beneficial. These could include anything from cooking and baking to playing with their grandchildren.
Sometimes those with dementia may become overwhelmed if they have too much socialisation. It is essential to recognise these signs and to find the right balance.
Can alternative therapies help with dementia?
Alternative therapies for dementia can be used alongside any treatment that your doctor provides, and there are many available. They can provide a range of benefits including, lowering anxiety and agitation, and improving sleep.
Alternative therapies can include:
Music Therapy
Music has a way of tapping into our emotions and transporting us with memories. Playing relaxing music or music that has a connection to that person will provide so many benefits.
Reduce stress and change their mood
Connect with those around them
Promote social interaction
Encourage physical activity
Pet Therapy
Pet therapy has long been used to help people recover from illness, and for those who have dementia, it has also been beneficial. A trained animal, along with the animal’s carer, enjoy guided interactions which can include hugs, walking and taking care of the animal. Individuals that have experienced pet therapy have experienced the following benefits.
Reduced anxiety
Increased physical activity
Communication with the pet
Emotional support
Greater sense of purpose
Art Therapy
Creating art is an amazing way to express yourself, but for senior Australian’s that are suffering from dementia, the rewards are plenty. For non-verbal seniors, art therapy encourages movement, smiling and laughing. It can be enjoyed as part of a group or done solo.
Sense of accomplishment
Reduce agitation
Encourages non-verbal expression
Cognitive and behavioural improvement
A lot can be done to improve the quality of life for those living with dementia. Aside from incorporating some of the activities listed above, it is important to spend quality time together. Do something you both enjoy, like playing games and reminiscing.
Are needing additional support for your loved one with dementia? Reach out and make contact today to see how Caspian Care can help.