Emily’s heart sank as she watched her dad, once a lively storyteller, struggle to remember her name. He’d get frustrated over small things, pacing the house at night, muttering about “finding the way home.” Mealtimes turned into battles—he’d push away food he didn’t recognize, and Emily felt helpless, wondering if she was failing the man who’d always been her rock.
The exhaustion crept in. She barely slept, checking locks on doors to stop him from wandering. Guilt gnawed at her: “Am I doing enough? Will he ever feel like my dad again?” The stress strained her marriage, her work, even her health. She’d cry in the shower, wondering how much longer she could keep going without breaking.
Then a friend handed her a worn booklet titled “Holding On to Love.” Emily flipped through pages that felt like a lifeline—practical tips for calming agitation with music, creating safe spaces, and turning “no” into “let’s try this instead.” She joined a support group where others shared her fears, and slowly, hope flickered. She learned to anchor their days with routines: morning walks to the garden, afternoons with old photo albums.
One evening, her dad hummed along to a song he’d loved for decades. For a moment, his eyes sparkled with recognition. Emily squeezed his hand, tears streaming. It wasn’t perfect, but they’d found a way to hold on—together.
This is the journey of dementia: messy, heart-wrenching, but threaded with love. And no family should walk it alone. ❤️
Here are 10 common questions families ask about handling dementia—and answers that can guide you.
1. How do we communicate better with someone with dementia? 🗣️
Communication can be tricky, but it’s possible to connect:
- Speak slowly and clearly.
- Use simple words and short sentences.
- Avoid correcting them if they get confused—redirect gently instead.
💡 Example: Instead of saying, “No, that’s wrong,” try saying, “Let’s talk about something else.” This keeps the conversation positive34.
2. How can we manage difficult behaviors like agitation or aggression? 😟
Behavior changes are common in dementia. Here’s what helps:
- Stay calm and patient.
- Identify triggers—like loud noises or unfamiliar faces—and reduce them.
- Offer comforting activities like music or a favorite snack.
💡 Tip: Create a quiet space where your loved one can retreat when overwhelmed23.
3. What are ways to keep them safe at home? 🏠
Safety is key:
- Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs.
- Lock away sharp objects and medications.
- Install alarms on doors if wandering is an issue.
💡 Comparison Table:
| Unsafe | Safe |
| Open stairs | Stair gates installed |
| Unlocked cabinets | Childproof locks |
| Dim lighting | Bright lights |
4. How do we create a daily routine that works? 📅
Consistency helps reduce confusion:
- Keep wake-up times, meals, and bedtime at the same times daily.
- Use visual cues like opening curtains in the morning or playing soft music at night.
💡 Activity Ideas: Gardening, painting, singing songs—these stimulate their senses and bring joy5.
5. Should we involve them in decisions? 🤔
Yes! Even small choices matter:
- Ask simple questions like, “Do you want tea or juice?”
- Respect their preferences when possible.
💡 Why it matters: It helps them feel valued and maintains their dignity1.
6. How do we handle wandering or getting lost? 🚶♀️
Wandering is common but manageable:
- Ensure they wear an ID bracelet with contact info.
- Alert neighbors to watch for unusual behavior.
- Use GPS tracking devices if needed.
💡 Tip: Keep recent photos handy for emergencies2.
7. What support options are available for caregivers? 🤝
Caregiving is tough—don’t do it alone:
- Respite care gives you time to rest.
- Adult day programs provide social activities for your loved one.
- Join caregiver support groups for advice and encouragement.
💡 Reminder: Taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for them35.
8. Should we consider residential care? 🏥
Sometimes home care isn’t enough:
- Look for dementia-specific units with trained staff.
- Ask about daily activities and food options.
- Visit facilities to see if they feel welcoming.
💡 Heather’s Story: Her husband loved food even as dementia progressed. She chose a care home with fresh meals because it brought him joy1.
9. How can storytelling help someone with dementia? 📖
Storytelling boosts memory and connection:
- Encourage them to share life stories—even if details aren’t perfect.
- Use photos or prompts to spark conversations.
💡 Creative Therapy: Group storytelling sessions can improve mood and reduce isolation67.
10. What should we expect as dementia progresses? ⏳
Dementia changes over time:
- Early stages: Forgetfulness; needing reminders.
- Middle stages: Difficulty recognizing people; more help needed daily.
- Late stages: Limited communication; focus on comfort care.
💡 Advice: Prepare early by discussing wishes for future care34.
Citations:
[1] https://www.dementia.org.au/news/8-questions-families-and-carers-can-ask-aged-care-providers
[2] https://www.health.vic.gov.au/older-people-in-hospital/cognition-dementia-delirium-and-depression/dementia/managing-dementia
[3] https://www.helpguide.org/articles/alzheimers-dementia-aging/tips-for-alzheimers-caregivers.htm
[4] https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2022/feb/how-to-care-for-someone-with-dementia-5-tips-for-caregivers/
[5] https://www.helpguide.org/aging/dementia/tips-for-alzheimers-caregivers
[6] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10500921/
[7] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10662670/
[8] https://aicontentfy.com/en/blog/techniques-for-engaging-readers-in-article-writing
[9] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6419116/
[10] https://www.caregiver.org/resource/caregivers-guide-understanding-dementia-behaviors/
[11] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-care-for-someone-with-dementia
[12] https://www.nccdp.org/the-four-rs-of-dementia-care-a-guide-for-caregivers/
[13] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10084455/
[14] https://www.arborcompany.com/blog/making-dementia-care-plan-10-questions-to-ask
[15] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3135450/
[16] https://www.aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-2021/dementia-diagnosis-questions.html
[17] https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/your-dementia-questions-answered
[18] https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/tips-caregivers
[19] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/safe-and-happy-at-home
[20] https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/help-dementia-care/understanding-supporting-person-dementia
[21] https://alzfdn.org/10-questions-to-ask-when-considering-a-memory-care-community/
[22] https://www.brightfocus.org/alzheimers/article/five-questions-families-ask-about-alzheimers-caregiving
[23] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10294106/
[24] https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/difficult-questions-and-telling-truth-dementia
[25] https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dementia-advice-for-families
[26] https://www.ncoa.org/article/alzheimers-and-dementia-caregivers-5-ways-to-help-find-nourishment/
[27] https://www.caregiver.org/resource/ten-real-life-strategies-dementia-caregiving/
[28] https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/publications-factsheets/caring-person-dementia-practical-guide
[29] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/living-with-dementia/looking-after-someone/
[30] https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving
[31] https://www.alzsd.org/dos-and-donts-of-compassionate-communication-dementia/
[32] https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-changes-behavior-and-communication/alzheimers-caregiving-managing-personality-and
[33] https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007428.htm
[34] https://www.chaptershealth.org/chapters-of-life-blog/medical-conditions/10-tips-for-dementia-caregivers-expert-advice-from-clinicians/
[35] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9382549/
[36] https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/benefits-of-storytelling-for-dementia/
[37] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7737917/
[38] https://www.terrabellaseniorliving.com/senior-living-blog/how-storytelling-can-be-one-of-the-best-activities-for-dementia-patients/
[39] https://guideposts.org/positive-living/health-and-wellness/caregiving/family-caregiving/aging-parents/4-ways-that-storytelling-benefits-older-people-and-their-caregivers/
[40] https://researchprofiles.canberra.edu.au/en/projects/digital-storytelling-for-person-focussed-dementia-care
[41] https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/dementia-professionals/dementia-experience-toolkit/real-life-examples/tips-dementia-friendly-documents
[42] https://childandfamilypolicy.duke.edu/news/the-power-of-storytelling-how-parents-and-caregivers-can-give-children-a-strong-foundation-for-language-and-literacy-development/
[43] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4239434/
[44] https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/alzheimers-dementia-caregiving
[45] https://ahamediagroup.com/blog/how-to-reach-and-market-to-caregivers-and-families/
[46] https://www.outbrain.com/help/advertisers/engaging-content/
[47] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-deal-with-dementia-parent
[48] https://www.ncoa.org/article/how-to-engage-caregivers-in-evidence-based-programs/
[49] https://www.longshot.ai/blog/tips-to-write-engaging-content
[50] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10932950/
[51] https://themeisle.com/blog/engaging-content/
[52] https://commonslibrary.org/writing-engaging-articles/
[53] https://jetpack.com/blog/six-ways-to-create-more-engaging-blog-posts/
[54] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dementia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352019
[55] https://www.hopehealthco.org/blog/from-a-dementia-caregiver-10-tips-for-self-care/
[56] https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/early-stage
[57] https://www.everydayhealth.com/black-health/storytelling-caregiver-self-care/
[58] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10845687/
[59] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8054218/
[60] https://aicontentfy.com/en/blog/boosting-reader-engagement-key-strategies-for-article-writing
[61] https://blogs.perficient.com/2024/03/07/caregiver-healthcare-content-when-the-patient-isnt-your-audience/
[62] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/readersblog/tony-merei/writing-articles-that-engage-readers-from-the-start-45492/
[63] https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dementia-communication