Caring for someone with severe dementia is not easy, but it is also an exceptional experience. It includes both trials and opportunities to show love. Families can make a safe and loving space for their loved ones with love and strength. This guide explains in plain language how to support people with dementia.
Understanding Severe Dementia
Severe dementia makes daily life difficult. Your loved one may not recognise you and view you as a stranger. Needs assistance with eating, walking or dressing.
Most people with dementia live between 3 and 11 years after diagnosis, but some live into their 20s. Knowing this helps families plan and provide support and care.
Knowing the seven stages of dementia before you leave helps you understand what to expect. He helped her provide the best care with love.
Sometimes, he catches a glimpse of his former self, a special look or smile when he remembers something. These moments show that they are still present, even if the disease hides them.
Recognise behavioural and emotional changes.
Dementia affects not only memory, but also your behaviour. A quiet person may become restless, pace from side to side, repeat words, or seem frightened for no apparent reason.
These changes are a consequence of the disease, not the person themselves. Some days, he may scream or cry. On other days, he stares silently at one point. It’s not that they’re difficult; they’re experiencing confusion or fear.
You may notice:
- Mood swings: from calm to angry.
- Avoiding people you used to get along with.
- Repeating the same actions over and over, such as folding fabric.
- Disorientation in your own home.
Telling them they are wrong is useless. Instead, try:
- Talk to them in a quiet voice.
- Gently take them by the hand.
- Sit nearby, quietly.
They don’t need you to fix anything. They need to feel safe and belong.
Communicating When Words Fade
As dementia progresses, talking becomes increasingly tricky. Your loved one may utter only a few words or repeat meaningless phrases. This will push you away from the previous chat, but you can still communicate with him.
You’ll learn new ways to “communicate”:
- Gently touch his arm
- Look him in the eyes
- Smile together
Speak to him gently, even if he does not respond. The tone of your voice is more important than words. Turn on his favourite song, show him an old photo, or play a tune he likes. It can comfort or awaken memories.
Sometimes the best way to say “I’m nearby” is to sit together silently. Silence can be a way to show love.
Taking care of daily needs (Dementia)
In cases of severe dementia, simple activities such as eating, bathing, or dressing require time and attention. You may have to guide your child’s hand as they eat or give them soft, easy-to-chew food.
Create a cosy and safe environment at home:
- Use dimmed lighting.
- Maintain a calm atmosphere.
- Get rid of the junk.
Save items well known to the patient, such as a favourite blanket or photograph.
Let him pick out the little things, like a red shirt or a hot drink. This choice helps him feel like himself, even a little bit.
Medical Care and Observation
Severe dementia weakens the body, and infections or problems such as dehydration can occur quickly. Pay attention to minor changes, take medications on time, and visit your doctor regularly.
Doctors may recommend care that will comfort the patient, such as palliative care or end-of-life care. This does not mean giving up, but relieving the pain and reassuring the patient. For example, medication may help him worry less or sleep better.
Reaching out to doctors or nurses for help is an expression of love. This will help your loved one feel comfortable when you can’t handle everything alone.
The Role of Memory Care Facilities
Caring for a loved one at home can be very challenging. You may feel tired or worried about his safety. A specialised boarding house for people with dementia can help your loved one and give your family a breather.
These spaces are designed for people with dementia:
- Secure doors with a lock
- Qualified Staff
- Simple Procedures to Facilitate Understanding
- Engaging activities such as singing or drawing
When visiting a loved one, observe the staff. Do they talk nicely to him? Do they lean down to look him in the eye? These little things demonstrate your affection. Choosing housing doesn’t mean giving it up, but a new way to show your love.
Caregiver Support
Caring for somebody with dementia is not an easy task. You may feel sadness, guilt, or anger. You feel his absence even when he’s still around.
Show care:
- Talk to a friend
- Join a Caregiver Support Group
- Go outside for some rest
Rest is not selfishness. It helps you stay strong for the sake of your loved one. You can’t do anything if you’re too tired.
End-of-Life Care Preparation
In the later stages, dementia slows things down. Your loved one may stop talking and move less. Families have to choose between comfortable rest and treatment that can be painful.
Palliative care gives peace of mind:
- Soft and clean beds
- Quiet Music
- Accept him dead
This is not surrender, but choosing serenity over pain. Discuss what you want, such as staying home or getting spiritual support. Planning makes the ending more bearable and filled with love.
Finding meaning in the journey
Even in difficult times, love finds a way out. A light smile during a song, a handshake or a serene look in your eyes: these moments are precious.
Small gestures matter:
- Gently comb her hair
- Fix her blanket
- Sing him a song he likes
It won’t take away the pain but will give it meaning. Dementia cannot destroy love. Even when memories fade, love remains strong.
Final Thoughts (Dementia)
Severe dementia changes lives. She requires unlimited patience and unconditional love. But in moments of quiet, the family finds a strength previously unsuspected.
With the help of affection, kindness and time, dementia can not be cured.