Caring for aging parents provides their children with the assurance that they are receiving proper care. It also helps them to create more memories and spend more time with their parents as they approach the end of their lives. However, caring is not simple, especially when a loved one is afflicted with dementia. Overall stubbornness and resisting care are characteristics of dementia, and they are among the most prevalent reasons why people seek caregiver assistance for their loved ones. Here are some tips for dealing with a stubborn aging parent.
Focus on the Positives
Discuss which activities they can still accomplish on their own. Perhaps they can still make their meals or do their clothes. List all of the typical things they can do, but then ask them to tell you what is becoming more difficult, such as climbing stairs or paying bills. If they are willing to accept certain flaws, you may be able to reach an agreement.
Be Straightforward
When it comes to information, less is sometimes more. When it comes to stubborn parents who refuse to listen, it is a mistake to bog them down with minute information about the day’s events or why certain things must occur. Instead, give them the broad strokes of the problem and keep things as easy as possible. By keeping things simple and easy to grasp, they are considerably more inclined to accept something that they would otherwise oppose.
Ask for Their Preferences
Is your loved one picky about which sort of service or who offers care? While you may not be able to fulfill all of your loved one’s desires, it is crucial to consider them. If your loved one is having difficulty comprehending what you’re saying, simplify your explanations and the decisions you anticipate him or her to make.
Body Language
To be understood by your aging parent, you may need to employ hand gestures and facial expressions. Pointing or demonstrating can be beneficial. Touching and holding the person’s hand may assist to maintain their attention and demonstrate your concern. A friendly grin and shared laughter may often convey more than words can.
Pay Attention
Understanding dementia begins with knowing what to expect and continues with understanding what causes these behaviors. You will be able to deal with the behaviors correctly after you determine what triggers them. Generally speaking, nearly anything may set off these feelings. Because the brain is the primary source of the disease, it is the most potent trigger. However, medication, your loved one’s health, or environmental factors might all play a role. Other times, individuals may be more prone to these behaviors merely because they are participating in an unfamiliar activity or because they are ill. For many people, these actions are the only way they recall communicating.
Choose Regency Pointe
Regency Pointe is a retirement community that is designed to make your loved ones’ golden years as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible. We provide multiple senior living options, each with the appropriate care and services to meet the unique needs of our residents.
