People with dementia live in your area, probably on your street, you might also have friends and neighbours with dementia.
Some common signs of dementia are confusion, forgetfulness, struggling to remember words and repeating yourself, this can make everyday situations quite stressful. Sometimes people living with dementia need extra assistance to help them with everyday tasks and this article contains some simple tips that may help you, help someone with dementia.
1. Speak Clearly
Speak clearly, calmly and slowly to allow the person time to understand information. Use simple, short sentences and avoid direct questions. Keep choices to a minimum and do not raise your voice.
Wherever possible talk in a non-distracting place. If the person struggles to find a word, then you could suggest one... but be careful not to interrupt or finish the sentence for them!
2. Body Language
People with dementia may find it difficult to understand what is being said, but can be quick to interpret the message on people’s faces and may still be aware of body language. Smile warmly, make eye contact, make sure you are at the person’s level, use a friendly tone and respect personal space.
3. Show Respect and Patience
Adapt what you are saying if the person with dementia does not understand. Don’t rush, and try to go at their pace. Treat people living with dementia as you would wish to be treated.
4. Listen
Listen carefully to what the person has to say, giving plenty of encouragement, whilst looking out for other clues of what they might be trying to communicate. Allow them time to find the words to tell you what they want.
5. Talk to the Person
A person with dementia may find it difficult to understand or be slow at finding the right words. Automatically going to talk to their partner or Carer and ignoring them or not including them can be very upsetting, and feel really undermining. It is important to talk to the person with dementia and not the carer.
6. Finding the Way
People with dementia sometimes lose their way or become disorientated. They may need you to help them find their way around. Sometimes, people living with dementia may struggle to follow simple directions. If they are confused they may need you to go with them to where they want to go.
7. Feeling Lost
Sometimes people living with dementia may forget where they are going or become disorientated. They might also forget where they now live. If someone is lost or distressed, if you can, offer to help by walking with them to where they are going. If you can’t help them and they seem at risk, the police will help.
8. Contact Information
It may be a good idea to have the contact information of a neighbour, a relative or Carer in case of emergency. It is important to respect the privacy of those with dementia; however the person living with dementia may feel reassured if their friends and trusted neighbours have contact numbers to use in emergencies.
9. Be a Good Neighbour
Neighbours with dementia – particularly if they live on their own, might forget to do everyday tasks like putting the bin out, taking their washing in. A simple reminder can really help, or ask if you can do it for them. Offering to take a neighbour with you, or picking up a few things when you do your shopping can really help too.
10. Whose Reality
Past memories can often be stronger than present reality. The person may be confused and say something that does not make sense to you. Avoid making that person feel embarrassed or foolish by contradicting them.
11. Communication
The person living with dementia may live by themselves and not be able to leave their house often. If you have time, you could go round to their house for a friendly chat so they do not feel alone – if they have a Carers, a visit can often give the Carer a little time to themselves. If you visit them often, remember that they may repeat themselves or talk about the past. Don’t be upset if they forget your name or what you talked about the last time you met.
12. Every Day Can Be Different
For some people living with dementia what they can do changes from day to day, so how you offer your help may need to be different every time. Look out
for signs and offer to help when needed, bearing in mind the privacy of the person. Do not be offended if they do not want the assistance you offer.