Summertime Struggles as a Dementia Caregiver
Written By: Katie Fournier, LPN, CDP, Owner & co-founder of Ember Holistic Care LLC
As someone progresses with their dementia they begin to forget “normal” everyday tasks from remembering to shower, to eating and hydrating appropriately, to remembering to go to an appt they scheduled. The list goes on and on for most. Throw Summer into the mix with these dementia related struggles and we have quite a problem on our hands.
All too often, and rightfully so, we focus on the positive things that summer brings us. I mean who doesn't enjoy the longer days, beautiful sunny weather, swimming, time with family, and warm weather outings? We take for granted having our cognitive power and all the unconscious planning that can go into each of these moments to keep our bodies, minds, and emotional wellbeing safe this time of year. These are the very things that the person with dementia may not take into consideration as they progress and start to experience struggles in proper planning or problem solving. So, how do we help our loved one with dementia thrive and succeed this time of year?
Our goal is to break down the common areas of safety concerns for you, so that you have an easy guide to assure your loved one living with dementia can safely enjoy the Summer just like they always have!
Sunscreen: Applying sunscreen can be challenging for someone, especially with advanced dementia. Upon applying sunscreen to them they may not understand what you are doing and why. Knowing your loved one will be beneficial because you will know their likes and dislikes, and how to approach the application (i.e. verbal guidance versus hands on assistance).
If they are someone who enjoys scented lotions then we suggest purchasing a scented one that is at least 30+ SPF. However, if they are someone who will be overwhelmed or overstimulated with scented lotion then we suggest going with a scent free sunscreen.
The application itself is where you may experience most of your challenges. When it comes to the application, the approach will be everything in whether or not you can successfully get the sunscreen on them or not. Always talk to them about what you’re doing before you do it. This way they are not agitated or anxious about you guiding them or applying the sunscreen for them. Make it fun or part of a routine if you can! If you have a loved one who has always enjoyed applying makeup, then use a beauty blender or make up brush to apply the sunscreen to their face. This will help to successfully make it part of their day-to-day routine. If you have a male with dementia that is agitated by the fact that he’s being told to put on some sunscreen, then use a temporary truth twist to what you're doing. An example of this would be “Hey dad! Your skin is looking a little dry. Let's put some lotion on your face before we head out for the day.” Using truth twists like this might make it easier to get them to understand and agree to application.
Adequate Hydration: All too often, regardless of the season, those living with dementia are not drinking nearly enough fluids for their bodies to function appropriately. As we age, our ability to taste begins to change and the last part of this to go is the ability to taste sweet drinks and food. This can be a factor into why they are not drinking much water, because it is flavorless and just isn’t cutting it for their taste buds. So, as the caregiver, we have to get creative with hydration to assure they are getting enough fluid intake to keep them hydrated. There are a variety of premixed drinks as well as packets that you pour into water that can make their drinks a bit more enjoyable. Another option is to put fruit (i.e. lemons) or vegetables (i.e. cucumbers) into their water for a bit more flavor.
Additional Hydration Tips:
Coffee Drinkers: Does your loved one with dementia always want numerous cups of coffee during the day? Try freezing the coffee in an ice cube tray and put it in a cup of milk. That way you can control the amount of caffeine and coffee intake while diluting it with milk and an adequate calcium source.
Alcohol Drinkers: Opt for an alcohol free version of their favorite drink. It will save the intoxication and dehydration that they can experience after drinking alcohol.
Sun and Heat Exposure: We often take for granted the sensation you feel when under the hot sun. As a younger person our bodies recognize it, and can regulate rather quickly and easily. It's an autonomic response so to speak. When you’re an older adult, more specifically someone with dementia, the body no longer knows how to self regulate with proper interventions. Older adults will sweat differently and their perception of heat will be much different than that of a younger person. This is where it becomes dangerous, because they could stay outside for too long resulting in sunburn, heat stroke, dehydration, etc.
Have you ever walked into the home of an older adult on a hot day, and they have the thermostat set to 80 degrees? Their circulatory system is different and they perceive hot and cold differently. This could be dangerous because it can take a toll on them physically, and if they have dementia, they will not recognize the harm being done.
As the caregiver, there are a few ways that you can support your loved one. Encourage them to take shorter periods of time outside, followed by reprieve and cooler places or with shade. Push for them to wear sunglasses, hats and even use an umbrella! Only go somewhere outdoors that has plenty of places to sit or rest if they are taking a walk outside on a hot day. My personal favorite thing that you can find on the market is a portable fan. They are small enough to carry in a bag or clip to a wheelchair or walker. Lastly, promote proper clothing to assure they are dressed appropriately for the weather outside.
If you have a loved one living with dementia, we would love to hear from you. Our services are supportive to the person with dementia, the caregiver, family, and even professionals in the field. We offer a complimentary phone consultation, and will send you on your way with the suggested next steps both with our services and without.
Email: info@emberholistic.com
Phone: 617-921-1753 (Text Friendly)
