Lifestyle Changes For Dementia Patients

Adapting after a dementia diagnosis can be an emotional and physical challenge. It’s important to know that it’s possible to remain at home and continue enjoying the things you love that are comfortable and familiar, especially during the early stages of dementia. There are a few easy lifestyle changes you can make to make living at home with dementia easier, so you can continue to feel safe, happy, and secure.

 
Ask For Support

If you find yourself struggling to complete tasks, navigate and get around, and/or remember to do things, ask for help. You may be surprised by how much support you can find from family, friends, neighbours, and other members of your community. Your friends and family can help by dropping by to chat and check in, bring meals, and help with daily tasks, such as mowing the lawn and doing dishes. Senior home care may also be an option, as a registered caregiver can help you adapt your lifestyle, assist with your daily routine and self-care, and provide companionship.

Participate In Hobbies

Think about what activities bring you joy. Do you love crafts, reading, puzzles, reading, or gardening? Surround yourself with beloved hobbies that will provide a sense of calm, familiarity, and stimulation. If you find it difficult to concentrate or complete activities with the same skill or speed you used to, don’t be hard on yourself. Allow yourself to relax and enjoy the activity, and the sensation it brings. For example, if you love gardening, focus on savouring the scent of the flowers and the feeling of the warm sunshine. What matters most is the experience and the happiness it brings you.

Make Your Home Safer

It’s important to ensure that your home is a safe haven, especially if you live alone. This means checking your fire alarms, removing or securing rugs, adding railings to areas like the bathroom, and covering electrical sockets. It’s also best to remove potential hazards, such as scented candles and lighters. When choosing household appliances, such as kettles and irons, choose ones with an automatic shut-off feature. You may also wish to install safety latches on cupboards and drawers, especially in the kitchen.

Encourage Independence

There are small and easy to implement changes that make being independent while living with dementia easier. You can make labels for drawers that quickly identify what’s inside. Another change you can make is removing the doors from closets and organizing your clothes in simplified way, so you can easily find your favourite clothing items and put together an outfit. A messy closet where your clothing isn’t readily visible will become an unnecessary source of stress and will make getting ready more difficult. Friends, family, or a senior home care provider can help you make your home more efficient, safe, and easy to navigate.

iCare Home Health: Alzheimer Care & Home Care Assistance In Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga & Milton

iCare Home Health offers seniors and people of all ages qualified and compassionate Alzheimer care and home care assistance in Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, and Milton. A-home support from a registered caregiver can help you or your loved one live more comfortably, independently, and ensure that their needs are taken care of. A caregiver can help undertake daily routines, medical needs, and promote better socialization and overall wellbeing. iCare Home Health’s expert caregivers and at-home nurses are trained to provide the highest quality support and care. To learn more, contact us for a consultation and explore our at-home services.