Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging, but there are several ways to help older people with dementia feel relaxed and happy. Here are some suggestions:
- Create a calm and peaceful environment: People with dementia can feel overwhelmed by noise and clutter. Creating a calm and peaceful environment by reducing noise, clutter, and bright lights can help them feel more relaxed.
- Play soothing music: Music can have a calming effect on people with dementia. Play music that they enjoyed when they were younger or soothing instrumental music to help them feel more relaxed.
- Use aromatherapy: Aromatherapy with essential oils, such as lavender or chamomile, can help people with dementia feel more relaxed and calm. A diffuser or a spray bottle can be used to distribute the scent throughout the room.
- Encourage gentle touch: Gentle touch, such as holding hands or a shoulder massage, can help people with dementia feel calm and secure. Make sure to respect their boundaries and only offer touch if they are comfortable with it.
- Provide a favourite activity: Engage the person with dementia in an activity they enjoy, such as reading, painting, or gardening. Activities can help them feel happy and reduce their anxiety.
- Offer reminiscence therapy: Reminiscence therapy involves discussing past memories and events. It can help people with dementia feel more connected to their past and bring back happy memories.
- Provide regular exercise: Physical activity can be beneficial for people with dementia. Exercise can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and promote better sleep.
It is essential to provide a calm and supportive environment for people with dementia. By focusing on their individual needs and interests, caregivers can help them feel more relaxed, happy, and engaged. Live-in care can help support people with dementia to remain calm and content and help family and friends feel reassured that their loved ones are being looked after.
By receiving the care and support they need to remain healthy and comfortable in their own homes, older people can continue to enjoy their golden years with dignity and independence.
If you or your loved one are interested in finding out more about live-in care and the various health benefits it can offer, get in touch with our dedicated live in care team now.