Dementia Quick Tips: Practical Insights for Caregivers and Patients (Video + Guide )

Dementia Quick Tips: Advice for Caregivers and Patients

Dementia Quick Tips™: Practical Insights for Dementia Caregivers

Insights and Tips from a Daughter’s 30-Year Journey

Caring for someone with dementia is a journey filled with challenges, learning, and moments of connection and love. Dementia Quick Tips™ are short, practical vignettes featuring insights from Lori La Bey, founder of Alzheimer’s Speaks. Drawing from her 30 years of caregiving experience with her mother, Dorothy, Lori shares advice she wishes she had known earlier. These tips are designed to help caregivers—also known as care partners, care companions, or carers—navigate dementia with grace, empathy, and confidence.

Each vignette is delivered in a simple and easy-to-understand format, enabling caregivers to apply the concepts immediately. These tips complement the videos on this page, offering written insights to further caregiver support

Tips for Everyday Care for People With Dementia

Small adjustments in daily routines can have a big impact on the well-being of someone living with dementia.

Creating a Routine

Establishing a predictable daily schedule can reduce confusion and foster a sense of security. Set consistent times for meals, activities, and rest, and stick to the routine as closely as possible.

Encouraging Independence

Allow individuals to complete tasks on their own, providing assistance only when needed. This approach helps maintain their confidence and dignity.

Simplifying Clothing Choices

Offer easy-to-wear clothing with simple fastenings, and provide just a few options each day to reduce decision-making stress.

Gentle Communication

Speak calmly, use simple words, and focus on one idea at a time. Approach caregiving tasks with patience and respect, ensuring your loved one feels understood.

Communication and Behavioral Tips

Effective communication and managing behavioral changes are key aspects of dementia care.

How to Communicate Effectively

Listen actively and avoid correcting or arguing with someone who may be confused. Instead, focus on maintaining a calm and reassuring presence.

Building Trust and Security

Use familiar objects, photos, and routines to create a sense of safety. Reassure your loved one with comforting words and gestures.

Dealing with Agitation or Anger

If your loved one becomes agitated, redirect their attention to a favorite activity or object. Distraction techniques, such as playing music or offering a comforting item, can help calm difficult situations.

Safety Tips for Dementia Care

Ensuring a safe environment is critical for the well-being of someone living with dementia.

Home Safety Adjustments

Remove tripping hazards, secure sharp objects, fire arms, and ensure good lighting throughout the home. Install handrails in bathrooms and staircases for added safety.

Personal Safety for Dementia Patients

Encourage carrying identification or wearing a medical alert bracelet. These simple tools can provide critical information in case of emergencies.

Preventing Falls and Accidents

Use non-slip mats, secure rugs, and sturdy furniture to reduce the risk of falls. Arrange the home to allow for safe movement and easy navigation.

Tips for Caregiver Self-Care

Taking care of yourself is essential to providing the best care for your loved one.

Taking Breaks and Seeking Help

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help from family members, friends, or professional caregivers. Joining a support group can also offer emotional and practical support, as well as help reduce feelings of isolation.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and ensure you get enough rest. Caring for your own health will help you better care for your loved one. Please remember your medical appointments are critical for maintaining your health!

Managing Stress and Burnout

Practice mindfulness, meditation, or therapy to manage stress. Talking to a trusted friend or counselor can also provide much-needed relief.

Healthy and Active Lifestyle Tips for People With Dementia

Encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle can enhance the quality of life for someone with dementia.

Encouraging Physical Activities

Activities like walking, gardening, or dancing can improve physical and mental health. Adjust activities to suit their abilities and preferences.

Promoting Healthy Eating

Prepare nutritious, easy-to-eat meals. Include foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats to support overall well-being.

Staying Socially Engaged

Encourage participation in social activities, whether it’s attending support group meetings, family gatherings, or simple conversations with loved ones. Social interaction reduces isolation and boosts emotional health.

Explore the Arts

The beautiful thing about art is there is no wrong way to do it. So be flexible, have fun, and see what happens.

Planning for the Future: Dementia Care Tips

Planning ahead ensures your loved one’s needs will be met as their condition progresses.

Legal and Financial Planning

Establish advance directives, wills, and care plans early to ensure your loved one’s wishes are honored. Seek advice from professionals for comprehensive planning.

Long-Term Care Options

Explore care options such as in-home care, assisted living, or memory care facilities. Researching these options early can make transitions smoother when the time comes.

Discussing Future Plans with Family

Initiate open and honest conversations with family members to align on caregiving roles and future decisions. Early discussions help reduce misunderstandings and emotional stress. We hope these tips, along with the videos on this page, provide valuable guidance for your caregiving journey. Remember, even small changes can make a big difference in enhancing the quality of life for both you and your loved one. Let us know which tips resonated with you or helped improve your approach to caregiving!