People who have dementia may have trouble with language and communication, eating, memory, and basic care for themselves.
People who have early memory loss can give themselves reminders to help them function each day. Some of these are:
Some people who have dementia may refuse food or not eat enough to stay healthy. Some tips that may help are:
In later stages of dementia, the person may have trouble chewing or swallowing. Talk with their doctor about a proper diet. At some point, the patient may need a diet of only liquid or soft foods, to prevent choking.
Keep distractions and noise down:
To avoid surprising the patient, try to make eye contact before touching or speaking to them.
Use simple words and sentences, and speak slowly. Speak in a quiet voice. Talking loudly, as if the person is hard of hearing, will not help. Repeat your words, if needed. Use names and places the person knows. Try not to use pronouns, such as "he," "she," and "them." This can confuse someone with dementia. Tell them when you are going to change the subject.
Talk to people who have dementia as an adult. Do not make them feel as if they are a child. Do not pretend to understand them if you do not.
Ask questions in a way that they can answer with a simple "yes" or "no." Give the person clear choices, and a visual cue, such as pointing to something, if possible. Do not give them too many options.
When giving instructions:
Try to get them talking about something they enjoy. Many people with dementia like to talk about the past, and many can remember the distant past better than recent events Even if they remember something wrong, do not insist on correcting them.
People with dementia may need help with personal care and grooming.
Their bathroom should be nearby and easy to find. Consider leaving the bathroom door open, so they can see it. Suggest they visit the bathroom several times a day.
Make sure their bathroom is warm. Get them undergarments made for urine or stool leakage. Make sure they are cleaned well after going to the bathroom. Be gentle when helping. Try to respect their dignity.
Make sure the bathroom is safe. Common safety devices are:
Do not let them use razors with blades. Electric razors are best for shaving. Remind the patient to brush their teeth at least 2 times a day.
A person with dementia should have clothing that is easy to put on and take off.
Walaszek A, Howell T. Emotional and behaviorial problems. In: Duthie EH, Katz PR, Malone ML, eds. Practice of Geriatrics. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 28.
Dave J, Hecht M. Dementia. In: Frontera, WR, Silver JK, Rizzo TD Jr, eds. Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 119.
Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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