According to the NHS, one in fourteen Brits over the age of 65 are living with dementia. One of the most common symptoms of the condition is memory loss. Memory loss can affect people in different ways. Often, those living with dementia experience short term memory loss such as forgetting names, misplacing items, getting lost or struggling to recognise people known to them.
Memory loss can be mild or severe and is often one of the earliest warning signs of dementia.
If you are living with dementia, you may be struggling to cope with memory loss and the varied challenges that it brings. Below are some of the ways that Home Care can help support those suffering with memory loss.
Creating and maintaining a routine
Following a daily routine can help to maintain a feeling of consistency and familiarity for someone living with dementia. Routines will ensure that when you are receiving dementia care in your own home, you feel assured and at ease. A good Homecare agency will work with you and your loved ones to create a routine that suits you best.
Taking up a new hobby
Medical research shows that when people keep their minds active, their cognitive skills are less likely to decline. Therefore, taking up a new hobby, or rediscovering an old interest like playing games or completing puzzles is likely to have a positive effect. Hobbies can also provide good opportunities for socialisation. It can be very rewarding to connect and interact with people who share similar interests to yourself.
An at-home care worker can support you with your hobby, whether that’s by helping you sign up for a course or accompanying you on a social outing. Homecare professionals can help give your confidence the boost it needs to get you out there, keep you active and regularly socialising.
Getting regular exercise
Exercise can provide positive stimulation for everyone, especially those living with dementia. Therefore, regular exercise tailored to your movement capabilities is essential to sustaining physical and mental wellbeing. Regular physical activity can improve your memory and the quality of your sleep whilst reducing your risk of further cognitive decline.
An at-home carer can help you to get more exercise in numerous ways. For example, by accompanying you to a local park for a stroll or to an exercise class.
Keeping track of your calendar
Maintaining a physical or technological calendar can help you to keep track of the days, months, and years, helping to ensure you don’t lose track of any important events. An at-home dementia care professional can help you to follow your calendar and ensure you meet any objectives you’ve set for yourself or appointments you need to attend.
Managing sleep
Dementia can affect the quality of your sleep meaning even if you’re in bed for eight hours a night, it is still possible that you will not wake up feeling refreshed and energised. A lack of sufficient sleep can result in a shortened attention span, reduced concentration, worsened reaction times and overall mood. Your carer can help you to implement a sleep routine that helps you to wind down and get as much quality rest as possible. Getting a good night’s sleep and maintaining a sufficient sleep schedule is important to keep the brain healthy.
If you’re struggling with sleeping, opting for live-in dementia care could be the ideal solution. Having someone there to assist and comfort you in the night may help you to relax and get the rest that you need to feel refreshed.
Organising your valuables
Losing your valuables can be stressful at the best of times. However, if you’re living with dementia-related memory loss, it can be even more distressing. Keeping your valuables, such as your phone, keys, and wallet, in specific locations can make it easier to keep track of them. You’re at-home carer can work with you to ensure your valuables are kept secure and easy for you to locate.
Find out more
Homecare services are a great option to consider if you or a loved one are living with dementia. Clarity Homecare know how to help dementia patients with memory loss, we can create and fulfil a bespoke dementia care plan that is tailored to your personal needs.
To find out more about our dementia care services please do not hesitate to get in touch with us at Clarity Homecare today. See if clarity Homecare has an office near you.
Alternatively, you can find more information on our dementia care services by visiting our website.
