Do you care for a loved one with Dementia? If so, firstly I’d like to say well done to you. Well done for being THAT person, I know it’s a tough and emotionally challenging job. So just the fact that you do it means I have an incredible amount of respect for you. Secondly I’d like to provide you with some help (or just my thoughts…).
I read some research this morning, one of many articles about Dementia. It was interesting, like most of the research articles I read (love being a geek), and also served a great purpose. It gave me the push to write this blog post.
In summary, the research presented by the Alzheimer’s society showed (in 3 different trials):
- Regular exercise helped people with Alzheimer’s disease to better manage behaviour associated with the condition – like anxiety or irritability
- Exercise may reduce levels of Tau Protein (the hallmark of some forms of dementia) in people with mild cognitive impairment
- Exercise could benefit people with vascular cognitive impairment and may even help to improve brain function
So we are all agreed, exercise helps. But before you all rush out to take Mum, Dad, Grandad or Grandma out for a game of squash, I’d like you to think about a few more things (I have a long list, this is just a few pointers):
OTHER STIMULI
So you’ve read this blog, and agreed that exercise will help. Stop, and put a little more thought behind it. If you’re taking Dad for a walk, take him somewhere that he will also find mentally stimulating. I met a lovely lady yesterday who took her husband (who is diagnosed with Dementia) to a motor museum whilst on a walk. It was the best thing she could have done, all of his passion for vintage Aston Martins (he actually had one!) came flooding back, along with his love for motocross. He couldn’t stop talking about it, and his passion for those cars is a core part of his “being” so he really connected with what he was seeing.
AVOID STRESS
As mentioned above, there are a few behaviours commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease, and quite commonly anxiety and irritability. Try and avoid situations where your loved one may feel anxious or irritated. Try and choose a quiet time where they won’t feel rushed or surrounded with people who may irritate them. Maybe taking Dad to the park on the busiest summer Saturday of the year isn’t the best idea.
HAVE FUN!
Laughter is the best medicine. Seriously, it is. Whatever you do, make sure you (both) enjoy it. Remember who you are spending time with and do things that you know they will enjoy. Don’t focus too much on the exercise and forget who they are. I know for a fact my dad would prefer to have a game of squash (he beat me the last time we played – he really is my hero) than a game of football – so why would I play football with him?
Hope you found the above useful. If you care for a loved one with Dementia and want some extra support then feel free to get in touch. Our trained CareGivers can use their experience to help your loved one to live a better life with Dementia. Alternatively if you just want some informal advice feel free to get in touch too. Lastly if you just want to call me to tell me you enjoyed reading my blog feel free to do that too! You can get in touch on 01329 233755 or solent@rightathomeuk.com
