If you’re reading this blog, you are interested in the why’s and how’s of caring better for people, particularly our folks with a few gray hairs.  And I’m happy to give you some practical yet profound tips:

1.  Toenails: I’ve seen too many long toenails on folks who can no longer care for their own toenails.  Long toenails hurt.  So trim them or get help keeping them trimmed.  Your person will be happier and healthier.

2.  Teeth: it can be tough to get teeth brushed well with someone who is living with dementia.  But try.  Sore gums make eating difficult and will likely make people uncomfortable and anxious.  Seek help from a Certified Dementia Practitioner for strategies to get teeth brushed when it’s tough to get done.

3.  Tone: our tone of voice matters.  Even if we’re answering the same question for the 100th time in 10 minutes, keep the edge out of our tone of voice.  An edgey tone gives our folks with dementia a verbal AND non-verbal message to interpret….too much for our folks whose mental efficiency is decreasing.

4.  Posture: keep an open, loving posture (no hands crossed in front of the body) and get down to eye level.  Our people will feel less threatened and more comforted.

5.  Our mood: we need to find ways to manage our mood, as we seek to create a comfort, secure, loving environment for our folks with dementia.  So, do what you need to in order to deal with “your stuff” so you can be calm and happy (sincerely) when you’re with someone with dementia.

Most importantly, get help.  Seek personalized consultation and strategies from a Certified Dementia Practitioner, like those with Better People Care.  We can help you care better!