Resources For CareGivers
A Virtual Dementia Tour
This is a MUST for all Caregivers! Experience what your loved one may be going through when they are going through the Dementia Journey. Earth Angels for Dementia schedules these tours Free for Caregivers on an ongoing basis. Dates and times are listed on our Events page
Click the arrow for a demonstration here.
Tips and Tricks for Caregivers
Dementia is Alive…
…in living color and has no rules, rhythm nor reason.
Try to use humor to get over the rough spots, hold their hand, and reassure your loved one
that they are safe and not alone.
Get help…
…if you are caring for your loved one from home.
Ask your doctor about prescribing Palliative Care. Your loved one may be eligible for Nurse Visits, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Social Work visits... fully covered by MediCare!
Hugs!
Hugging is the most beautiful form of communication that allows the other person to know beyond a doubt they matter to you... even though they may not remember who you are. Hug your loved one often, especially if agitated or afraid.
Animals are great!
If you don’t already have a furry friend, consider a cat or dog. Petting is great therapy for you and your loved one... and a pet is a great one to talk to when there is no one else to listen.
Camouflaging Medications!
Buy a pill crusher and mix the powder in foods with texture. Some good choices are ice cream with chocolate chips or jimmies, rice pudding, oatmeal with raisins and nuts, and crushed ice. Hiding a single pill is easy in ice cream sandwiches, Oreo cookies and caramel candy.
When Swallowing is Tough…
…thick liquids like milk shakes or fruit smoothies provide lots of calories, fluids, and nutrients and they are creamy, cold, and easy to swallow. An easy smoothie recipe: 1 banana, 5-6 strawberries, single serving of vanilla or fruit flavored yogurt, a squeeze of honey (optional) and crushed ice. Blend for 15 seconds. Add protein powder, cereal (frosted mini wheats or similar), and change fruits for diversity.
Be Patient!
Agree with them... and try not to correct or berate them. Let them live in whatever moment they are in... and join them there!
Make a Fidget Pillow!
These are great to alleviate agitation and keep your loved one busy. Click here to see the fidget pillow in action.
Stick to Daily Routines!
Routines make days predictable and less confusing.
Be Flexible!
Allow extra time for everything.
When Incontinence Occurs…
…you can extend full changings by inserting a sanitary pad without fastening it to the underwear. Replace the pad frequently by simply pulling out and replacing the pad.
When Bedridden…
…prevent the patient from pulling off disposable underwear by covering the abdomen area with a towel or other textured material to fidget with.
Communication Best Practices!
You might think that you are having a Hard Time caring… but it is important to understand that your loved one with Dementia is HAVING A HARD TIME… hearing, processing thoughts, feeling pain or not understanding the world around them. It’s downright scary sometimes! They may be afraid of their surroundings, who you are, or of their own mortality. The best thing you can do is to BE KIND. UNDERSTAND THAT THEY MAY NOT UNDERSTAND… even though its frustrating for you. Try not to raise your voice or frown… even though it is natural for you to be human. A smile or hug can may be the best gift you can give to make them feel safe.
The chart below is designed to provide tips on communication.
Honor Your Own Experience
Nothing about Dementia is easy for the Caregiver in Dementia!
Earth Angels for Dementia understands that you need to care for yourself before you can care for another. And sometimes you’ll FORGET to care for yourself! Here is a Caregiver Daily Checklist for SELF care!
*Don’t forget to eat… and try to consume healthy nutritious food.
*Sleep is important! Try to get at least 5 hours of sleep and take a restorative rest when you can.
*Spend at least 10 minutes a day… in meditation, prayer, or quiet thought.
*Stop and Breathe… when challenges arise!
*Laugh out loud!
*Let others help!
*Have positive physical contact with your loved one by hugging, touching, or holding hands.
*Step outside into nature… and JUST BREATHE!
*Try not to worry… It doesn’t do you ar your loved one any good!
* Be kind to yourself!
*Be grateful… for at least one thing that got you through the day.
*AND REMEMBER, YOU ARE AWESOME! GIVE YOURSELF CREDIT FOR BEING THERE!
One of The Hardest Things You Will Ever Do…
…is to grieve the loss of a person who is still alive. It’s called Ambiguous Grieving.
The Hardest Thing…
…is watching someone you love, forget they love you.
Dementia is Difficult!
Sometimes you will feel tired and fed up... and feel defeated, frustrated, and close to breaking down. When this happens, understand that this is normal, and know that when you feel weak, there is strength within you.
A Person with Dementia is Not Giving You a Hard Time…
…they are having a hard time! Try to take it a day at a time, an hour at a time or even a minute at a time to stay strong for yourself and your loved one.
#Me_First - Yes You!
There is a reason why the airlines insist that you put your oxygen mask on before assisting others.
While it might seem a bit selfish, consider that you are best able to care for your loved one when you are in good health (mental, emotional, physical, spiritual).
Yes it is important that your loved one takes their meds, but it is equally important - for both of you - that you also take yours. Thanks to the help of our active Caregiver community we were able to compile this list of #MeFirst habits for Caregivers. In addition to taking your meds first:
Medical Questions About Dementia
Earth Angels for Dementia May not know HOW to answer a medical question... but we know WHERE to find some of the most frequently asked questions via the websites listed below:
Questions About Alzhemier’s
The Alzheimer's Association is comprehensive site that provides information on
warning signs, stages of the disease, treatments, care options and financial planning. Earth Angels for Dementia also has lots of information for you to take home and read as well as weekly Support groups to share your experience with others caring for their loved one.
Questions About Aging
The National Institute on Aging provides information on the latest studies on
causes and possible cures for all Dementia types.
Questions About Lewy Body Dementia
The Lewy Body Dementia Association is an exceptionally
comprehensive resource on everything Lewy.
Questions About Community Support
There are also numerous Support Groups for all Dementia types on social media that offer a wealth of knowledge from fellow Caregivers themselves. They are closed confidential groups that you can ask a question or just vent about having a bad day! You can search Facebook for the Support Group that best fit your needs.