Five Little Known Secrets to Make Dementia Caregiving Easier

Join us for a live & interactive discussion with the author of
Dementia Home Care, How to Prepare Before, During, and After
This engaging session will share practical tips and strategies designed to alleviate the stress of dementia caregiving, drawing from Perkins' extensive experience as a caregiver and author.
This live and interactive discussion is brought to you by RAZ Mobility and the Positive Aging Community.
Five Little-Known Secrets to Make Dementia Caregiving Easier
Caring for a loved one with dementia is an emotional and challenging journey, but with the right strategies, it can become more manageable. Tracy Cram Perkins, a four-time dementia caregiving survivor, shares her invaluable insights on how to ease the process. From innovative memory aids to effective communication techniques, these five little-known secrets will help caregivers navigate the complexities of dementia care.
1. Use Visual and Audio Memory Aids
Memory aids can significantly reduce confusion and repetitive questioning. A simple whiteboard can be an effective tool for maintaining a daily schedule and answering frequently asked questions. For example, writing down reminders like "Doctor's appointment at 3 PM" or "Dinner at 6 PM" can provide reassurance to a person with dementia.
Additionally, memory clocks or digital devices with recorded voice reminders help keep individuals oriented to time and tasks. For those who struggle with reading, verbal reminders can serve as an alternative way to provide guidance and reassurance.
2. Create a Personalized Memory Book
A memory book filled with photos and short descriptions of significant people, places, and events can help stimulate memories and conversations. Keeping descriptions short and simple-such as "This is my cat, Tiger"-can make them easier to understand.
These books are particularly useful during moments of distress or sundowning episodes. If a loved one is confused about where they are, caregivers can use the book to help orient them in a comforting way. Memory books can also assist individuals who revert to their first language, providing a visual reference when verbal communication becomes difficult.
3. Implement Safety Strategies to Prevent Wandering
Wandering is a common and concerning behavior in dementia. To minimize the risk, caregivers can employ creative methods such as:
Painting doors and doorframes the same color as the walls to make them less noticeable.
Using "Do Not Enter" or restroom signs on exits to discourage wandering.
Installing motion sensor alarms or jingle bells on doors.
Utilizing GPS tracking devices for added security.
A particularly effective approach is disguising doorways with curtains or decals that resemble bookshelves or scenery, making them visually unappealing for a person with dementia.
4. Engage in Redirecting Techniques
Dementia often causes agitation and repetitive behaviors. Instead of correcting or arguing, caregivers should validate emotions and use redirection techniques. For instance, if a loved one insists that something has been stolen, writing a "police report" together can provide a sense of resolution without confrontation.
Similarly, if a person refuses to bathe, caregivers can reframe the experience by incorporating enjoyable elements such as playing favorite music or using a shower chair for added comfort. Identifying the root cause of resistance-whether it's fear of falling, sensory issues, or modesty concerns-can help tailor a compassionate approach.
5. Utilize Music and Laughter for Emotional Connection
Music is one of the last memories to fade in dementia. Playing favorite songs from a loved one’s youth can reduce agitation and create moments of joy. Singing together can also serve as a way to engage with someone who has lost verbal communication skills.
Laughter yoga is another powerful tool. Even forced laughter can trigger real joy and help relieve stress for both caregivers and those with dementia. Scheduling daily laughter sessions can create a more positive caregiving environment.
Conclusion
Dementia caregiving is a challenging journey, but by incorporating these five little-known secrets, caregivers can reduce stress and create meaningful moments with their loved ones. From memory aids to redirecting techniques, these practical strategies enhance communication, promote safety, and bring joy to the caregiving experience.
For more resources and caregiving tips, visit Positive Aging Community.