Educational Concepts for Active Living
Dementia Care Specialists
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From Bowling Green, KY
For some family members it feels as though a loved one with dementia is intentionally trying to drive ‘em nuts…asking the same question over and over…making accusations they very well know are untrue…forgetting to do a simple task time and time again. The caregiver says: “TRY HARDER!” but the person with dementia likely feels, “I’m giving this all I’ve got.” What if the caregiver suspicion is wrong? What if these scenarios have nothing to do with designed, purposeful aggravation? What if a cognitive condition is the culprit for these frustrations? Then suddenly the person with dementia is dealing with multiple layers of distress. Not only will this individual struggle in the “lost” moment (coming to grips with being unable to identify a loved one, execute a task that has been a part of a lifetime routine or find something important that has been misplaced)…but, to add insult to injury, this person also has to deal with “letting down” a family member. When disorientation is at play, it is best for caregivers to show empathy and compassion. Gently and diplomatically guide the person with dementia through their angst…rather than unintentionally push them further into a state of depression.
- Rachel
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