Tips For Caregivers Of Those With Dementia

By Jody Smith HERWriter

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Caregivers of people with dementia can often find themselves in a difficult situation. The person with dementia may become angry easily. This can happen quickly and unexpectedly, putting the caregiver on the spot. Their immediate response can mean the difference between a conflict that is defused, or a full-blown eruption that can rapidly become out of control.

Angela Lunde is a health education outreach coordinator for the Mayo Clinic. She has some suggestions that may bring some balance back into the lives of those with dementia and their caregivers.

"Consider this, if we as caregivers can respond to our loved one with dementia in a way that offers them a sense of control or an illusion of control, we can diffuse reactions of anger and the outcome may be more desirable. A way to do this is by validating their feelings, joining their agenda, and lastly redirecting."

The person with dementia may be reassured that they are being heard and that their needs will be met. They may then feel a sense of control which may help to defuse a potentially disastrous situation.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dementia-anger/MY01389

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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.