How to Talk to a Parent with Dementia

Author

FirstLight Home Care Minneapolis

For more information about the author, click to view their website: FirstLight Home Care

Posted on

Nov 03, 2024

Book/Edition

Minnesota - Twin Cities Metro Area

share-this
Share This

Understanding how to talk to a parent with dementia is an ongoing education, especially when it comes to a progressive disease like Alzheimer’s. As patients move through the different stages, they may become disoriented, confused or have trouble reasoning in addition to experiencing memory problems. Sometimes, expressing emotion or talking about what they are going through can be equally upsetting. 

Learning what to look out for and how to communicate with a dementia patient is crucial with cognitive disorders. Keep an eye out of these 3 early signs of dementia, and read on to discover how best to talk to someone suffering from the disease. 


Tips for Talking to Those Living with Dementia 


Offer Patience and Reassurance 

Patience is absolutely key when it comes to dealing with someone who has Alzheimer’s. As you learn the types of things that can cause confusion, anger or fear, be sure to reassure your loved one that everything is alright and that they are safe. If they take a moment to respond, give them that space and patience to ensure they are able to express themselves without added pressure. 

Don’t Criticize or Argue 

Although the effects of dementia on caregivers can be vast, creating hard-to-handle stress and burdens, one thing to remember is that criticizing or arguing will only make things worse. As your loved one’s brain is affected by this disease, they may not be thinking rationally during your conversations. In their


Encourage Other Forms of Communication 

While Alzheimer’s and dementia won’t impact your loved one’s ability to speak in most cases, that doesn’t mean that it will be the easiest way to communicate. Other forms of communication may give them time to think about what they are trying to say and help them from becoming agitated as they try to speak. Whether it’s writing things down, pointing, gesturing or even relying on visuals, these nonverbal skills can be very important when learning how to talk to a parent with dementia. 

Avoid Vague Statements or Too Many Questions 

Be clear in what you want or need when talking to someone with dementia. Vague statements only add to the confusion they may already be experiencing. For example, instead of saying, “Let’s go,” explain to them where you are going and why. In that same vein, avoid asking too many questions as could be overwhelming. If possible, turn your questions into leading statements to direct their responses in a healthy way. 

Opt for the Positive Over the Negative 

There’s no doubt that there will be things to discuss with aging parents. But, whether you’re working your way through hard conversations or simply telling your loved one it’s time for dinner, make sure that your messages are filled with positivity. These positive statements can make all the difference in the world, helping to keep agitated or angry behaviors at bay in favor of a good mood all around — for you and your loved one. 


Keep Calm and Carry On 

Living with dementia is not easy, whether you’re the patient or the caregiver. Patience is key, so remember to keep your wits about you and your temper under control. Remaining calm will help you deal with anything that comes up as you learn the best ways to talk to someone experiencing dementia. Whether the conversation goes well or not, it’s important to remember that you will have good days and bad. Don’t give up hope and keep focused on learning better ways to communicate with your loved one. 


How Dementia Care Can Help 

When it comes to Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders, it is often hard to know which steps to take. If your loved one is exhibiting signs that the disease is progressing, let FirstLight’s knowledgeable experts help — we are well-versed in how to talk to a parent with dementia. We offer individualized, in-home dementia care services in a number of cities that can provide much-needed peace of mind. 

Turn to FirstLight Home Care, a brand that will be by your side every step of the way. To get started on your journey, inquire about a personalized quote or reach out today to talk with your local FirstLight team at 612-473-3227.  

Other Articles You May Like

Congestive Heart Failure is the Number One Reason For Hospitalizations Amongst Older Adults: "What We Dont Know We Dont Know in Health Care

Introduction: I felt strongly compelled to write this blog on heart failure as it is such a pertinent issue in the aging population today. Before I go into details on this, Id like to address the definition of this disease process. Heart failure occurs when the heart doesnt pump well and fails to deliver adequate oxygen to the body. As a result, fluid builds up in the body and vital organs dont get the blood that they need. This can make it harder for individuals to perform everyday tasks and can lead to eventual overall decline. Problem:Heart failure is the number one reason for hospital admissions in older adults, and often leads to multiple readmissions (Agarwal et. al., 2021). As a cardiac nurse for many years, I can attest to the fact that heart failure is the biggest reason for multiple hospitalizations in seniors. Patients come in and out for problematic symptoms, sometimes coming into the hospital as often as every month. The three biggest symptoms I see that result in hospital admissions are shortness of breath (particularly when lying flat), weight gain, and swelling in the legs.One reason for such frequent admissions is the complexity of heart failure itself. It is a complicated clinical syndrome and is notoriously difficult to manage. A lot is put on patients to manage their heart failure at home, and this can be a challenge. In addition, individuals may have some level of cognitive impairment or multiple other comorbidities, making it even more challenging to perform the extensive monitoring needed to prevent heart failure from worsening. The importance of education:Education is also important in the treatment of heart failure. Unfortunately, this often does not get done. When I first started working in acute care back in 2004, every patient received extensive education in managing their heart failure prior to discharge. Nurses would provide lengthy verbal education on the importance of medication adherence, daily weights, low salt diet, and other factors, in addition to providing the patient with a heart failure educational pamphlet prior to discharge. Over the years, however, hospitals have increasingly faced staffing shortages and high nurse turnover. As a result, a lot of important patient education is not getting addressed. A lack of awareness and understanding in patients on how to manage their heart failure is definitely a key reason for worsening heart failure and repeated hospitalizations. Management:From a clinician standpoint, the goal in addressing heart failure is twofold: we want to reduce symptoms and prevent mortality. The best way to do this is through patient/family education and implementation of a treatment plan. A proper treatment plan will include such lifestyle modifications as a low salt diet, quitting smoking, and getting regular physical activity. A low salt diet can be incredibly helpful in preventing further fluid build up in the body. The American Heart Association recommends that all individuals consume no more than 2,300 mg of sodium per day (AHA, 2024). In todays era of processed and packaged food, a majority of the American population consumes much more than that, and it comes in the food itself rather than the saltshaker. Maintaining a low sodium diet has one other priceless benefit that I often do not see emphasized enough in heart failure: it can help reduce blood pressure. Almost half of all heart failure patients have uncontrolled hypertension (Heart Failure, 2022). It is a major risk factor in the development of heart failure and managing it can greatly reduce heart failure symptoms and decrease stress on the heart. Current guidelines recommend maintaining a systolic blood pressure of less than 130. Medication management is another important factor in the management of heart failure. This often includes the use of diuretics, beta blockers, and other medication classes that I will not go into detail on. I wanted to discuss diuretics and beta blockers because these are the two medications in heart failure that I see non-compliance with the most. I witness individuals often not taking one or the other for two main reasons:  they either dont understand the importance of them or they dont like the side effects. Seniors can often have difficulty getting up to go to the restroom. Diuretics cause frequent trips to the restroom because their purpose is to get excess fluid off the body. Many individuals do not comply with their prescribed diuretic because of the hassle of frequent bathroom trips. Unfortunately, ineffective diuresis causes heart failure to worsen and puts further stress on the heart. I often see non-adherence to beta blockers due to their side effects. The two biggest symptoms that get reported to me are fatigue and dizziness. As in the diuretic, a beta blocker can also help reduce the stress on the heart, and heart failure symptoms can worsen if the prescribed dose is not adhered to. Its important to maintain prescribed medication regime and if any negative symptoms are experienced to discuss them with the doctor. One final thing:I wanted to touch on one final monitoring recommendation for heart failure because it so often gets missed: daily weights. Weighing oneself daily is of tantamount importance in heart failure and can identify early on if heart failure is worsening. This can lead to early intervention, thus decreasing potential hospitalization. Adherence to this all too often does not occur. I see patients come into the hospital for large amounts of weight gain often 20 or more lbs. Many patients report that they never stepped on the scale to assess for weight gain and often do not get admitted to the hospital until symptoms are severe such as severe weakness and shortness of breath. In heart failure its recommended to contact the doctor if weight goes up by more than 2 pounds in a day or greater than 4 pounds in a week. The doctor can make modifications in the treatment regime and hence reduce potential hospitalizations and mortality. Conclusion:Heart failure is complex but manageable. Early action can prevent hospital admissions, reduce mortality, and optimize quality of life. Having ongoing guidance from an experienced clinician can be of great benefit if you or your loved one is having difficulty managing heart failure and other disease processes. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any further questions. I want to help and make the process of aging as stress free as possible while promoting positive health outcomes.  My name is Laura Carson and I have been a Registered Nurse (RN) for over 20 years and have witnessed firsthand the challenges and complications that aging presents. It affects not only the aging themselves but also their families and loved ones. Health care is complex, and in this increasingly fragmented and overburdened system, it can be extremely helpful to have a professional oversee all aspects of care. As your eldercare manager, I will comprehensively assess the needs of your loved one and we will work together in establishing a care plan. I will assist you and your family with difficult decisions and help promote healthy communication on issues that are often difficult to address and navigate. Contact me for a 20 minute free consultation at 714-403-7040.  References:Blood Pressure and Glycemic Control Among Ambulatory US Adults With Heart Failure: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001 to 2018 (April 28, 2022). Heart Failure. Almost half of heart failure patients have uncontrolled hypertension and diabetesAgarwal, M., Fonarow, G., & Ziaeian, B. (February 10, 2021). National Trends in Heart Failure Hospitalizations and Readmissions From 2010 to 2017. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7876620/Weber, C. (May, 2023). Heart Failure Pharmacology.  How much sodium should I eat per day? (2024). American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sodium/how-much-sodium-should-i-eat-per-day  

Caring for Aging Parents: Let FirstLight Lighten Your Load

Caring for Aging Parents: Let FirstLight Lighten Your LoadWatching your parents age and begin to need help can be one of lifes most emotional and challenging transitions. As they require assistance with everyday tasksfrom getting dressed to grocery shoppingit can feel overwhelming to shoulder these responsibilities on your own. At FirstLight Home Care, were here to support you and your loved ones with compassionate care that makes a difference.The Challenges of Caring for Aging ParentsBeing a primary caregiver for your aging parents can be as rewarding as it is exhausting. Between managing your own responsibilitieswork, family, and personal needsit may feel like there arent enough hours in the day. Many caregivers find themselves stretched thin, sacrificing sleep, hobbies, and social connections to meet the needs of their parents.This cycle often leads to burnout. The constant physical, mental, and emotional demands can leave you drained, making it harder to provide the care your loved ones deserve. Its common to feel like youve lost your sense of self, but remember: you dont have to do it all alone.Supporting Your Aging ParentsThe level of care your parents need depends on their situation. Some may only require occasional check-ins, while others may need help with daily routines like showering, preparing meals, or managing medications.As health challenges grow, these responsibilities can feel like a full-time job. Its a heavy load for one person to carry, especially when trying to balance everything else in life. Thats where FirstLight Home Care steps in to help.How Companion Care Makes a DifferenceAt FirstLight, we offer a range of senior care services, including companion care, dementia care, respite care, and more. Our caregivers are carefully matched to each familys unique needs, bringing much-needed relief to those caring for aging parents.Companionship and Emotional SupportLoneliness is common among seniors, but our compassionate caregivers bring connection and joy to their daily lives. Whether its sharing stories, assisting with communication, or helping them stay socially active, our team is here to keep your parents engaged and happy.Daily Living AssistanceFrom light housekeeping to meal preparation, our caregivers ensure your loved ones home remains a clean, safe, and healthy space. They can also help with hygiene, toileting, and mobility, all while treating your parents with the dignity and respect they deserve.Relieving Family Caregiver StressHaving professional support means youll have more time and energy for yourselfand for your parents. Instead of being overwhelmed by caregiving duties, you can focus on strengthening your relationship with them and creating meaningful memories.Let Us Support Your FamilyCaring for aging parents is no small task, but you dont have to do it alone. At FirstLight Home Care, were here to share the load and provide expert care that brings peace of mind to you and your family.Whether your parents need help with daily activities, companionship, or more specialized care, our trained caregivers are ready to step in and provide the support they deserve.Reach out to FirstLight Home Care today to explore personalized care options near you.Ready to learn more?Discover how FirstLight can make life easier for you and your loved ones. Contact us for personalized pricing or visit your nearest location to begin. Together, we can help your parents live their best lifewhile giving you the space to thrive, too.  Call FirstLight Home Care in Bloomington at 612-473-3227.

Six Simple Strategies to Help Seniors Sleep Better

Six Simple Strategies to Help Seniors Sleep BetterHow did you sleep last night? With National Sleep Awareness Week taking place from March 10th to 16th, its the perfect time to think about your bedtime habits and explore ways to improve your sleep quality.A restful nights sleep is like a reset button for your body and mind, and its especially important for seniors. Good sleep can boost your mood, sharpen your mind, and strengthen your immune system. However, as we age, getting those precious Zs can become more challenging. Changes in sleep patterns, along with environmental and emotional factors, often lead to restless nights.If counting sheep has become your nightly ritual, dont worryyoure not alone, and help is here. The Seniors Helping Seniors team has six simple, practical tips to help you sleep better and wake up refreshed. Lets dive in!1. Stick to a Relaxing Bedtime RoutineYour body loves routines, especially when it comes to winding down for the night. Create a calming bedtime ritual that works for youlike reading a book, doing some light stretches, or meditating. These activities signal to your body that its time to relax. Not sure where to start? Your Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver can help you incorporate these soothing habits into your evening routine.2. Power Down Your ScreensScrolling through your phone or catching up on emails before bed might seem harmless, but the blue light from screens can disrupt your natural sleep hormones. Try putting your devices away at least an hour before bedtime. Instead, swap that screen time for a calming activity like listening to music or journaling.3. Create a Cozy Sleep SanctuaryA good mattress and supportive pillows can make all the difference in how you feel the next morning. Look for bedding that keeps you at a comfortable temperature throughout the night. Your bedroom should also be dark, quiet, and coolthink of it as your personal sleep haven.4. Limit Afternoon NapsA quick nap can recharge your energy, but long or late-day naps might mess with your nighttime sleep. Keep naps short20 to 30 minutesand try to rest earlier in the day. This way, you can still enjoy a power nap without affecting your bedtime.5. Get Moving During the DayPhysical activity isnt just great for your overall healthit also helps you sleep better. Even 30 minutes of light exercise like walking or yoga can work wonders. Just remember to keep workouts earlier in the day, as late-night exercise might leave you too energized to fall asleep.6. Mind Your Evening MenuWhat you eat and drink before bed can influence your sleep. Heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime can leave you tossing and turning. Instead, try something soothing, like a cup of herbal tea or warm milk, to help you unwind. Need help with meal planning? Seniors Helping Seniors caregivers are happy to lend a hand.Bonus Tip: Keep Your Wake-Up Time ConsistentYour body thrives on routine, so try waking up at the same time every dayeven on weekends. A consistent wake-up time helps regulate your internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.If youve tried these tips and are still struggling with sleep, it might be time to seek professional advice. A healthcare provider or sleep specialist can help identify underlying issues, like sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome, and recommend tailored solutions.Sleep is vital for your health and well-being, and you deserve to wake up every day feeling your best. Your Seniors Helping Seniors team is here to support you in creating healthy sleep habits that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Sweet dreams!

Local Services By This Author

FirstLight Home Care Minneapolis

Companion Care 8400 Normandale Lake Drive, Bloomington, Minnesota, 55438

FirstLight Home Care of Minneapolis West & South Metro: Comprehensive and Compassionate In-Home Care ServicesFirstLight Home Care of Minneapolis West & South Metro offers professional and compassionate home care services for seniors, veterans, individuals recovering from surgery, and adults with disabilities. Serving communities such as Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, Edina, Bloomington, and surrounding areas, their highly trained caregivers provide personalized support to improve quality of life while enabling individuals to remain in the comfort of their own homes.Key Services Offered:Personal Care: Assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, mobility, and hygiene to ensure physical well-being.Companion Care: Social engagement and emotional support to combat isolation and enhance quality of life.Respite Care: Temporary relief for family caregivers to recharge while ensuring their loved ones receive excellent care.Dementia and Alzheimers Care: Specialized care for individuals living with cognitive challenges, focused on safety, routine, and memory support.Veteran Care: Tailored services to honor and support veterans in need of home care assistance.What Sets FirstLight Apart:Customized Care Plans: Each familys unique needs are considered to design the most effective and supportive care plan.Empathetic Caregivers: The team is trained to build trust-based relationships while providing dignified and respectful care.Holistic Support: FirstLight addresses not only physical needs but also emotional and social well-being.Expert Guidance: Families receive advice and resources to make informed decisions about their loved ones care.Whether its a few hours of help each week or full-time in-home assistance, FirstLight Home Care ensures every client receives compassionate, dependable care tailored to their individual needs. Contact FirstLight Home Care of Minneapolis West & South Metro at (612) 473-3227 to learn more or create a personalized care plan for your loved one.

FirstLight Home Care Minneapolis

Personal Care Assistance 8400 Normandale Lake Drive, Bloomington, Minnesota, 55438

FirstLight Home Care of Minneapolis West & South Metro: Comprehensive and Compassionate In-Home Care ServicesFirstLight Home Care of Minneapolis West & South Metro offers professional and compassionate home care services for seniors, veterans, individuals recovering from surgery, and adults with disabilities. Serving communities such as Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, Edina, Bloomington, and surrounding areas, their highly trained caregivers provide personalized support to improve quality of life while enabling individuals to remain in the comfort of their own homes.Key Services Offered:Personal Care: Assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, mobility, and hygiene to ensure physical well-being.Companion Care: Social engagement and emotional support to combat isolation and enhance quality of life.Respite Care: Temporary relief for family caregivers to recharge while ensuring their loved ones receive excellent care.Dementia and Alzheimers Care: Specialized care for individuals living with cognitive challenges, focused on safety, routine, and memory support.Veteran Care: Tailored services to honor and support veterans in need of home care assistance.What Sets FirstLight Apart:Customized Care Plans: Each familys unique needs are considered to design the most effective and supportive care plan.Empathetic Caregivers: The team is trained to build trust-based relationships while providing dignified and respectful care.Holistic Support: FirstLight addresses not only physical needs but also emotional and social well-being.Expert Guidance: Families receive advice and resources to make informed decisions about their loved ones care.Whether its a few hours of help each week or full-time in-home assistance, FirstLight Home Care ensures every client receives compassionate, dependable care tailored to their individual needs. Contact FirstLight Home Care of Minneapolis West & South Metro at (612) 473-3227 to learn more or create a personalized care plan for your loved one.

FirstLight Home Care

Non-Medical 8400 Normandale Lake Drive, Bloomington, Minnesota, 55438

FirstLight Home Care of Minneapolis West & South Metro: Comprehensive and Compassionate In-Home Care ServicesFirstLight Home Care of Minneapolis West & South Metro offers professional and compassionate home care services for seniors, veterans, individuals recovering from surgery, and adults with disabilities. Serving communities such as Minnetonka, Eden Prairie, Edina, Bloomington, and surrounding areas, their highly trained caregivers provide personalized support to improve quality of life while enabling individuals to remain in the comfort of their own homes.Key Services Offered:Personal Care: Assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, mobility, and hygiene to ensure physical well-being.Companion Care: Social engagement and emotional support to combat isolation and enhance quality of life.Respite Care: Temporary relief for family caregivers to recharge while ensuring their loved ones receive excellent care.Dementia and Alzheimers Care: Specialized care for individuals living with cognitive challenges, focused on safety, routine, and memory support.Veteran Care: Tailored services to honor and support veterans in need of home care assistance.What Sets FirstLight Apart:Customized Care Plans: Each familys unique needs are considered to design the most effective and supportive care plan.Empathetic Caregivers: The team is trained to build trust-based relationships while providing dignified and respectful care.Holistic Support: FirstLight addresses not only physical needs but also emotional and social well-being.Expert Guidance: Families receive advice and resources to make informed decisions about their loved ones care.Whether its a few hours of help each week or full-time in-home assistance, FirstLight Home Care ensures every client receives compassionate, dependable care tailored to their individual needs. Contact FirstLight Home Care of Minneapolis West & South Metro at (612) 473-3227 to learn more or create a personalized care plan for your loved one.