3 Ways To Brighten the Life of Your Loved One With Dementia

No one wants to imagine someone they love developing dementia, but it’s a reality for millions of people in the United States and all over the world. Caring for a loved one with dementia can be difficult, and many types of dementia have symptoms that include changes in mood and state of mind. Finding ways to help them stay happy and optimistic, even in the face of significant challenges, can make a substantial impact on their overall quality of life. If you aren’t sure what to do, keep reading to learn about three ways you can brighten the life of your loved one with dementia.

Learn more about dementia so you can provide help.

The best place to start if you want to show a loved one with dementia that you care is to learn about their condition. As they progress through the dementia stages, it will mean a lot to them that you have some knowledge about what they’re going through. This will also allow you to assist with caretaking responsibilities. Having family and friends around, and maintaining a sense of familiarity with their environment, is helpful and recommended for those who are living with dementia.

Purchase thoughtful gifts that may be beneficial for them.

Being surrounded by beautiful greenery and having hobbies to enjoy can be extremely helpful for dementia patients. It’s easier than ever to use plant gift delivery to have a selection of houseplants delivered right to your loved one’s doorstep. It’s a good idea to focus on plants that are simple to care for and don’t require a lot of attention. Succulents are a great option for beginners who haven’t developed their green thumb yet.

Allowing your loved one to have houseplants and take care of them as much as they’re able to could even have substantial benefits. Researchers found in one study that patients diagnosed with dementia who engaged in horticultural therapy experienced increased feelings of well-being, as well as a sense of pride and achievement. The connection to the broader community of plant lovers can also help create a sense of community and provide opportunities for social interaction.

Make an effort to be present, even when it’s difficult.

People living with dementia often experience social isolation, which can make the illness even harder to cope with. Just being present in someone’s life can be incredibly meaningful. You don’t have to be able to do everything or spend all day at their house, but showing up every once in a while to remind them that you care and you’re thinking about them can make a major impact on their overall mood and quality of life.

It’s understandable if watching a loved one live with dementia is difficult for you. It can be an emotional experience, especially if you’re assisting them on a regular basis. It’s important to take care of your own mental health so you can be an effective advocate and caregiver. There are many benefits to therapeutic treatment, even if you don’t have a diagnosed mental health condition. Some people may feel selfish for thinking about how to care for themselves, but it’s necessary if you want to be able to provide the best possible support for your loved one.

Though it isn’t easy to watch someone progress through the stages of dementia, it’s essential to keep in mind that there’s a lot you can do to help. You can start by educating yourself, as it will enable you to be a better caregiver and advocate for your loved one. There are plenty of resources available both on and offline to take advantage of. Finding hobbies or activities they can enjoy, like gardening or caring for houseplants, can also be extremely beneficial. What matters most is that you find ways to be a comforting and positive presence in their life.

3 Ways To Brighten the Life of Your Loved One With Dementia

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