Dementia is a syndrome defined by a progressive deterioration in cognitive function and behaviour that significantly impairs a person’s ability to carry out daily tasks. People with dementia require significant care from multidisciplinary specialists as the condition advances. When patients or their families suspect dementia, home nursing care is generally the first healthcare experts to be consulted. This is because dementia care in Malaysia frequently necessitates more effort and time. As prominent home nursing care in Malaysia, we will play a more prominent role in handling everyday chores for dementia care in Malaysia as the condition worsens. As a result, we explored practical recommendations that can assist dementia care in Malaysia as much as possible while allowing us to manage responsibilities properly.
When formerly simple chores become complex, a person with dementia may feel irritated. As a result, our home care nursing services provide various daily tasks to limit problems and alleviate dissatisfaction during the dementia care process in Malaysia.
Reduce frustrations
-
Schedule wisely.
Create a daily regimen. Some duties, such as showering or attending medical visits, are easier to complete while the person is alert and refreshed. However, allow some wiggle room for unexpected activities or exceptionally difficult days.
-
Take your time.
Expect chores to take longer than usual and allocate more time for them. Allow for breaks between tasks.
-
Involve the person.
Allow the dementia patient to perform as much as possible with as little assistance as feasible. For example, they may be able to set the table using visual signals or dress independently if clothes are laid out in the order they put on.
-
Provide choices.
Provide some choices every day. For example, provide two dress options: inquire whether they like a hot or cold beverage or would instead go for a stroll or see a movie.
-
Provide simple instructions.
Dementia patients prefer simple, one-step communication.
-
Limit napping.
Avoid taking multiple or extended naps during the day. This reduces the possibility of having days and nights reversed.
-
Reduce distractions.
Turn off the television and limit distractions during mealtimes and talks to help the patient focus.
Be flexible
A person who has dementia will become increasingly reliant over time. Stay flexible and adjust your schedule and expectations as needed to avoid frustration. Consider purchasing a couple of identical outfits if they want to wear the same outfit daily. If bathing is greeted with resistance, consider showering less frequently.
Create a safe environment
Dementia decreases judgment and problem-solving abilities, raising the risk of damage. To increase safety:
-
Prevent falls.
Avoid using scatter rugs, extension cords, and other items that could cause a fall. Instead, install railings or grab bars in critical areas.
-
Use locks.
Install locks on cabinets containing potentially harmful items such as medicine, alcohol, weapons, toxic cleaning products, dangerous utensils, and tools.
-
Check water temperature.
Reduce the temperature of the water heater to avoid burns.
-
Take fire safety precautions.
Keep matches and lighters out of reach. Constantly monitor smoking if the person with dementia smokes. Make sure a fire extinguisher is nearby, and the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have new batteries.
Focus on individualized care
Each person with dementia will have a unique experience with its symptoms and progression. Adapt these helpful hints to the specific demands of your family member. Patience and flexibility, as well as self-care and the support of friends and family, can assist you in dealing with obstacles and frustrations.
At Pillarcare, we pledge to give the best and most effective dementia care in Malaysia, allowing dementia patients to recover faster and easing the load on families. Furthermore, we offer various home care nursing services such as companion care, senior transportation, personal care, and others to make dementia patients feel at ease and comfortable with our caregivers.
