Tag: Philadelphia dementia care

Creating Holiday Connections: Tips for Carepartners to Engage with Older Adults

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

The holiday season is a time for connection, joy, and reflection. For carepartners, it’s an opportunity to strengthen bonds with older adults and bring extra cheer to their lives. Here are a few meaningful ways caregivers can engage with older adults during the holidays.

caregiving during the holidays 1 Creating Holiday Connections: Tips for Carepartners to Engage with Older Adults

1. Share Holiday Traditions

Engage older adults by revisiting cherished traditions, such as baking holiday cookies, decorating a tree, or lighting candles. Ask them to share their favorite memories or recipes—this can rekindle fond moments while creating new ones.

2. Incorporate Music and Arts

Holiday music and crafts are excellent ways to uplift spirits. Singing carols, playing classic songs, or making decorations together can encourage creativity and evoke a sense of belonging.

3. Explore Storytelling

Encourage older adults to share stories about holidays past. You can turn these into storytelling sessions with younger family members or create a memory book to celebrate their experiences.

4. Engage in Acts of Kindness

Involve them in charitable activities like writing holiday cards for neighbors, donating to a food drive, or knitting scarves for those in need. These small gestures foster a sense of purpose and connection.

5. Enjoy Holiday Entertainment

Watch classic holiday movies or attend local events such as concerts or plays (virtually or in person). It’s a great way to share laughter and nostalgia.

6. Adapt Activities to Their Needs

Ensure that activities align with the older adult’s physical and cognitive abilities. Whether it’s a cozy chat over hot cocoa or a short stroll to enjoy holiday lights, tailor activities to their comfort level.

The holidays provide a special time to focus on togetherness and love. With thoughtful planning, caregivers can create memorable and heartfelt moments that make the season bright for older adults.

NursePartners places a special emphasis on connecting before providing care to older adults. Our plans of care include reference to the older adult’s work and family history, as well as hobbies, skills, and other preferences. These are essential for the carepartner to provide personalized care while assisting the older adult with the activities of daily living (bathing, eating, mobility, etc.).

Want to learn more about how we can help your loved one? Please call us at 610-323-9800.

Home Care Can Improve Your Parent’s Quality of Life

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

As parents age, maintaining independence and quality of life becomes increasingly challenging. A professional non-medical home care company can bridge the gap between their desire for autonomy and the need for extra support, offering tailored services that improve their overall well-being.

1. Personalized Care for Unique Needs

Non-medical home care is not one-size-fits-all. Services such as assistance with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication reminders are customized to meet your parent’s specific needs. Caregivers ensure they receive the support necessary to stay comfortable and safe at home. All carepartners at NursePartners are certified nursing assistants with a working history caring for older adults.

2. Companionship and Social Engagement

Loneliness and isolation can significantly impact a senior’s mental health. Professional caregivers provide consistent companionship, engaging your parents in conversation, hobbies, and outings, which fosters emotional well-being and reduces feelings of isolation. This requires a comprehensive plan of care that takes into account your parent’s personality, hobbies, work history, and life experiences.

3. Maintaining a Safe Environment

Home care professionals are trained to identify and minimize risks in the home. From fall prevention measures to mobility assistance, they help create a secure environment that allows your parents to live confidently in their space. NursePartners completes a no cost initial assessment which includes ensuring that the home is safe for the older adult.

4. Relief for Family Members

Balancing caregiving with work and other responsibilities can be overwhelming for family members. A professional home care company provides peace of mind, knowing that your parent is in skilled and compassionate hands. We also engage the family in the ongoing case management of their parent.

5. Promoting Independence

Rather than taking over, caregivers aim to empower your parents, encouraging them to participate in daily tasks to the extent they are able. This approach preserves their sense of independence and dignity. NursePartners proactively suggests activities that your parent and the carepartner can do together.

Investing in a professional non-medical home care company is not just about meeting basic needs; it’s about enhancing your parent’s quality of life. With personalized support, companionship, and a safe home environment, your loved one can enjoy their golden years with greater joy and fulfillment.

Want to learn more about how NursePartners can support your parent? Call today at 610-323-9800.

caregiver stress management for dementia alzheimer s Home Care Can Improve Your Parent's Quality of Life

How to Talk to Your Parents About Home Care

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
talking to mom How to Talk to Your Parents About Home Care

Discussing home care with your parents can be a delicate and emotional conversation. While it’s natural to want the best for them, the topic may bring up concerns about independence, finances, or the reality of aging. Approaching the subject thoughtfully and with empathy can help foster understanding and agreement. Here’s how to start this important conversation.

1. Choose the Right Time and Place

Timing is everything. Find a quiet, comfortable setting where everyone feels relaxed and open to talking. Avoid bringing up the subject during a stressful moment or when emotions are running high.

2. Do Your Homework

Before the conversation, research home care options, services, and costs. Be ready to explain how home care can enhance their quality of life by offering assistance with daily activities, providing companionship, and ensuring safety while allowing them to remain in their home.

3. Focus on Their Needs and Desires

Frame the discussion around your parents’ wishes rather than your own concerns. Ask open-ended questions like:

  • “What tasks are becoming harder for you lately?”
  • “How do you feel about getting some extra help at home?”
    This shows that you’re prioritizing their perspective and respecting their autonomy.

4. Address Common Misconceptions

Your parents may worry that accepting home care means losing independence or privacy. Reassure them that home care is designed to support their independence by enabling them to stay at home rather than moving to a facility.

5. Share Stories or Examples

If you know friends or family members who have benefited from home care, share their experiences. Hearing positive outcomes can help reduce hesitation and build trust in the idea.

6. Include Them in the Decision-Making

Involve your parents in choosing a home care agency or caregiver. Review options together and encourage them to ask questions. This empowers them to feel in control of the process.

7. Be Patient and Respectful

It’s normal for parents to resist the idea at first. Avoid pushing or pressuring them. Give them time to consider the information and revisit the conversation as needed.

8. Seek Professional Advice if Necessary

If the conversation becomes difficult, consider involving a trusted third party, such as a doctor, social worker, or care manager. These professionals can provide valuable insights and help address specific concerns.

9. Reassure Them of Your Support

Let your parents know that you’re in this together. Acknowledge their fears and emphasize that the goal is to enhance their quality of life, not to take control.

Conclusion

Talking to your parents about home care requires sensitivity, preparation, and patience. By approaching the conversation with empathy and a focus on their well-being, you can help them see the value of home care as a supportive and empowering choice. Ultimately, this discussion is about ensuring they have the care and support they need to thrive in their later years.

The time does not need to be “perfect” to introduce home care services. We are here to talk to you about what care could look like for your parents: 610-323-9800.

Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of Dementia

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Dementia is a complex disease marked by a decline in cognitive abilities, including memory, reasoning, and social skills. These changes can significantly impact a person’s daily life, making early recognition crucial for better treatment outcomes. Although symptoms vary by individual and type of dementia, several early warning signs are common across many types of dementia. Here’s what to look out for if you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one.

memory problems w calendar Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of Dementia

1. Memory Loss that Disrupts Daily Life

Short-term memory issues are often the first sign of dementia. Forgetting dates, repeatedly asking the same questions, or relying heavily on reminder notes are indicators to watch. While everyone occasionally forgets things, persistent memory loss that affects daily routines is a red flag (Alzheimer’s Association, 2023).

2. Challenges with Planning or Problem-Solving

People with early dementia may find it difficult to plan tasks or work through problems. For example, managing finances, following a recipe, or paying bills may become challenging. This change, often tied to executive functioning, can make once-simple tasks feel overwhelming and may lead to errors (Mayo Clinic, 2022).

3. Confusion about Time and Place

People experiencing dementia may lose track of dates, seasons, or even where they are. They might feel disoriented in unfamiliar places or struggle to understand events as they unfold (National Institute on Aging, 2021).

4. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks

Routine tasks, such as driving to familiar locations, preparing a favorite meal, or remembering the rules of a game, may become difficult for someone with dementia. This is distinct from occasional forgetfulness; it’s a noticeable inability to complete tasks that were once second nature, reflecting a decline in cognitive ability (Alzheimer’s Research UK, 2022). Remember to always compare cognitive functioning to the person’s previous baseline. This is why creating a comprehensive plan of care is crucial, as it allows us to realize when something has changed.

5. Changes in Mood and Personality

Mood and personality changes can also signal dementia, as the brain undergoes changes that affect emotional regulation. People may become anxious, fearful, easily upset, or depressed, and may show signs of apathy, especially regarding hobbies and activities they once enjoyed. They may also become suspicious of others, a response sometimes triggered by feelings of confusion and frustration (Alzheimer’s Association, 2023).

6. Trouble Understanding Visual or Spatial Relationships

Dementia can affect spatial perception and depth awareness, making it hard to judge distances, navigate spaces, or recognize familiar objects. This issue is especially prevalent for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease (one of the many forms of dementia), where visual processing in the brain is compromised. Misjudging distance while driving, for instance, can be an early indicator (World Health Organization, 2021).

7. Difficulty with Words and Conversations

Language challenges, such as struggling to find the right words, repeating phrases, or having difficulty following conversations, are also common in the earlier stages of dementia (Diamond and Emerald stages following the GEMs methodology). This can result in more frequent pauses, misunderstandings, or noticeable frustration when trying to communicate, which may lead to social withdrawal over time (Mayo Clinic, 2022).

What to Do if You Notice These Signs

If you or someone you know displays these symptoms, consider speaking with a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis can help rule out other potential causes, such as vitamin deficiencies or medication side effects, and enable planning for appropriate support and treatment options.

If there is a diagnosis of dementia, start your care team earlier. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to build a stable care team to support your loved one in the comfort of their home.

Let us tell you more about our approach to caring for those living with dementia: 610-323-9800.

References

Winter Activity Ideas for Older Adults

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Winter can be a challenging season for older adults, with shorter days, colder temperatures, and the temptation to stay indoors. However, it’s essential to stay active and engaged for mental and physical health. Here are some enjoyable activities that can help older adults make the most of the winter season.

indoor senior arts and crafts Winter Activity Ideas for Older Adults

1. Exercising Inside

  • Don’t overthink it. Simple range of motion activities can make a world a difference for an older adult. Sometimes they just need prompting or someone to do it with them. If a physical therapy plan exists, reference this for ideas.

2. Crafting and Hobbies

  • Winter is a perfect time to get creative! Knitting, painting, drawing, and scrapbooking are great indoor hobbies that can boost mental well-being and provide a sense of accomplishment. Older adults can also try their hand at new hobbies like calligraphy, arts and crafts, or jigsaw puzzles.

3. Puzzles and Brain Games

  • Engaging in activities like crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and card games is an excellent way to keep the mind sharp. Board games with family or friends also encourage social interaction and can be a lot of fun.

4. Baking and Cooking

  • Cold weather invites cozy baking and cooking projects. Whether it’s trying new recipes or preparing comforting favorites, cooking can be a creative outlet. Many communities also offer cooking classes tailored to seniors for those looking to refine their skills.

5. Reading and Audiobooks

  • Winter provides a great opportunity to dive into a new book or catch up on classics. Audiobooks are also a wonderful way for those with vision impairments or other challenges to enjoy stories.

6. Virtual Social Groups

  • Staying socially connected is vital, especially in winter when it may be harder to see others in person. Many organizations offer virtual social groups, book clubs, or learning sessions, allowing seniors to interact with friends or meet new people from home.

7. Bird Watching and Nature Walks

  • On sunny winter days, older adults can bundle up and enjoy a nature walk in their neighborhood or local park. Bird watching is a relaxing activity that can be done indoors or outdoors, especially with a pair of binoculars and a bird feeder to attract local species.

8. Volunteer Work from Home

  • Giving back can be deeply fulfilling. Older adults can volunteer from home by writing cards to those in nursing homes, reading virtually to children, or helping charities with remote work. It’s a great way to stay engaged while making a positive impact.

9. Indoor Gardening

  • Gardening doesn’t have to stop in winter! Indoor plants, small herb gardens, or even caring for succulents provide a bit of nature indoors. Studies show that caring for plants can reduce stress and improve mental health.

With a bit of creativity and planning, older adults can find many ways to stay active, social, and engaged during the winter months. If you do not have a care team in place, consider bringing it a professional partner. NursePartners has worked with thousands of older adults in the Philadelphia area over the last two decades. Call us to learn more: 610-323-9800.

Minimizing Fall Risk for Older Adults with Impaired Mobility Living at Home

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults, especially for those with impaired mobility. Fortunately, there are several effective steps families and carepartners can take to minimize these risks, allowing their loved ones to live safely and independently at home.

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1. Assess the Living Space

A home environment assessment is a crucial first step in preventing falls. Walk through each room to identify and address potential hazards. NursePartners completes a complimentary free assessment before onboarding new clients. This is what we look for during these assessments:

  • Clear clutter and remove any items on the floor that may obstruct walking paths.
  • Secure loose rugs with double-sided tape or remove them altogether.
  • Arrange furniture to create open, accessible pathways that accommodate mobility aids.
  • Install adequate lighting, especially in hallways, staircases, and entrances, to improve visibility at night.
  • Accessibility, ensure most used items are within reach.

2. Install Safety Features

Investing in a few key safety features can make a significant difference:

  • Grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub provide stability.
  • Non-slip mats in bathrooms reduce the risk of slipping on wet surfaces.
  • Handrails on both sides of stairs offer balance and support.
  • Raised toilet seats and shower chairs can help with stability during transfers.

3. Encourage the Use of Mobility Aids

Using mobility aids, like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs, can improve stability and reduce the chance of falls. Make sure the device is correctly adjusted and encourage your loved one to use it consistently. Regular maintenance of these aids—such as ensuring that walker wheels and cane tips are in good condition—is also essential.

4. Promote Physical Activity

Maintaining physical strength is essential to preventing falls. Encourage activities that focus on balance, flexibility, and strength, such as gentle exercises, balance training, or even physical therapy. Activities like tai chi and chair yoga can be particularly beneficial, as they help enhance stability without putting strain on the joints.

5. Review Medications and Health Conditions

Some medications or health conditions can increase fall risk by causing dizziness or impaired balance. Regularly review medications with a healthcare provider to minimize side effects and adjust dosages if needed. In addition, ensure routine eye exams, as vision changes can impact depth perception and balance. If you do not have a good relationship with your provider, either establish it now or find a new one.

6. Provide Emergency Preparedness Tools

Even with precautions, falls can still happen. Prepare for emergencies by providing easy-to-access tools, like:

  • Medical alert systems or wearable alarms, so they can call for help if needed.
  • Cell phones or other devices within reach, so they can quickly reach family members or emergency services.

Implementing these fall-prevention strategies can go a long way in supporting a safer and more comfortable home environment for older adults with impaired mobility. Regular reassessment and adjustments based on their changing needs are essential to maintaining an environment that fosters independence while minimizing risks.

NursePartners manages the care for older adults in the comfort in their homes. This includes regular visits to monitor the level of care being provided and reassessments of the home environment. Want to learn more? Call us today at 610-323-9800.

Frontotemporal Dementia Warning Signs and Symptoms

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to a progressive decline in behavior, personality, language, and motor function. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, which is more common in older adults, FTD often impacts individuals between 40 and 65, and research shows that it is slightly more prevalent in men than in women.

early onset dementia Frontotemporal Dementia Warning Signs and Symptoms

Why FTD Is More Common in Men

Several factors contribute to the higher prevalence of FTD in men. Genetic research has suggested that certain genetic mutations linked to FTD, such as in the C9ORF72, MAPT, and GRN genes, might be more commonly expressed or lead to more severe symptoms in men. Additionally, some studies have found that brain networks and functions disrupted by FTD may vary subtly between genders, with the behavioral and emotional changes often associated with the male presentation of the disease possibly resulting in earlier and more noticeable symptoms. Lifestyle differences, like higher reported rates of traumatic brain injuries in men, could also contribute to this gender disparity.

Symptoms of FTD

The symptoms of FTD vary by subtype, but the most common form, behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD), involves:

  • Behavioral and Personality Changes: This includes increased impulsivity, social withdrawal, apathy, and inappropriate social behavior. Patients may struggle to understand social cues and exhibit compulsive or repetitive behaviors.
  • Language Difficulties: Known as primary progressive aphasia (PPA), this subtype affects speech, reading, writing, and comprehension. Over time, affected individuals may have difficulty forming sentences or finding the right words.
  • Motor Symptoms: In some cases, FTD can lead to physical symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease, such as tremors, muscle stiffness, and balance issues.

Implications of FTD Prevalence in Men

The slightly higher prevalence of FTD in men highlights the importance of early detection, particularly when behavioral changes are involved. As symptoms of FTD can sometimes resemble psychiatric disorders, particularly in men, an accurate diagnosis is crucial for receiving appropriate treatment and support. Increased awareness of these gender differences may lead to better diagnostic and care approaches, helping families and caregivers better understand the progression of FTD and support loved ones affected by it.

Creating a Care Team

It is challenging to build a care team around someone living with FTD. This is often the case because the disease progresses rapidly, and the care recipient often rejects proactive actions to implement a care team. The challenges are compounded by their impulsivity and sometimes boots of aggression and eloping.

It is crucial that you involve a professional caregiving team as soon as possible. These individuals have core skills that allow them to meet the individual where they are currently and scale up services once trust has been established. Want to learn more? Call us at 610-323-9800.

Bathing a Senior living with Dementia: A Gentle Approach

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
senior bathing with candles Bathing a Senior living with Dementia: A Gentle Approach

Bathing a senior with dementia can be a delicate and challenging task. Dementia often affects memory, comprehension, and emotional responses, so it’s important to approach bath time with sensitivity, patience, and respect. Creating a positive experience can improve not only hygiene but also the person’s sense of dignity and well-being. Here are key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Prepare the Environment Ensure the bathroom is warm, well-lit, and safe. Have all the necessary supplies ready—towels, soap, and clean clothes—to avoid leaving the senior unattended. Non-slip mats, grab bars, and a shower chair can make the process more secure and comfortable for both the caregiver and the senior. Go the extra mile by bringing warm towels, adjusting the room lightening and scents, and ensuring that everything is set up for enjoyable experience.

2. Communicate Calmly and Reassure Explain each step gently, even if the person may not fully understand. A soothing tone and familiar words can reduce anxiety. For example, say “Let’s wash your hands” instead of “It’s time to bathe,” as specific instructions may feel less overwhelming.

3. Maintain Privacy and Dignity Many seniors with dementia may feel vulnerable during bath time. Keep them covered with towels or a bathrobe as much as possible to maintain privacy. Letting them participate—like washing their own face or arms—can promote independence and preserve dignity.

4. Be Flexible and Attentive Adapt to the senior’s preferences and moods. If they seem resistant or fearful, it may help to switch to a sponge bath or try again later. Being attentive to their reactions ensures a gentler, more respectful experience.

5. Use Touch to Reassure A comforting touch can offer reassurance. Holding their hand or gently guiding them can reduce feelings of confusion or agitation. Stay mindful of non-verbal cues, as body language often communicates more than words.

6. Focus on Comfort, Not Perfection The goal is to keep the person clean and comfortable. If a full bath is too stressful, consider alternatives like a sponge bath or focusing on key areas—hands, face, underarms, and the groin.

Caring for a senior with dementia requires adaptability and empathy. By creating a calm and supportive environment, you can help ensure that bath time is a positive experience that maintains their dignity and comfort.

Helping Older Adults Bathe, Using the Positive Approach to Care

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes

Teepa Snow, a renowned dementia care expert, developed the Positive Approach to Care (“PAC”) to provide compassionate and effective caregiving strategies, especially for those living with dementia. Bathing is often a challenging task for older adults, particularly those with memory or cognitive impairments, but Teepa’s approach offers valuable insights to make this experience more comfortable and respectful.

Key Principles for Bathing:

  1. Create a Positive Environment: Teepa emphasizes the importance of setting the right mood before bathing. The environment should be calm, well-lit, and warm, reducing sensory overload that may trigger anxiety. Avoid rushing, as this can create unnecessary stress.
  2. Use Hand-under-Hand® Technique: This method involves placing your hand underneath the older adult’s hand, helping guide them through the bathing process while preserving their sense of control. It fosters a sense of connection and reduces resistance by making the person feel they are part of the process, not just the recipient of care.
  3. Focus on Comfort and Safety: Teepa advises caregivers to always prioritize the person’s comfort. Ensure the water temperature is appropriate, and consider using a washcloth for sensitive areas instead of directly using the showerhead, which can be startling. Providing towels for warmth and maintaining privacy also help the older adult feel secure.
  4. Be Mindful of Language and Approach: Teepa recommends approaching from the front, making eye contact, and using a soft, reassuring tone. Avoid giving too many instructions at once, as this can confuse or overwhelm the person. Instead, guide them step-by-step and use visual cues to help them understand the process.
  5. Adapt to Their Abilities: If the older adult can participate, encourage them to do what they can, such as washing certain parts of their body. This involvement can help preserve dignity and foster independence.

Conclusion:

By following Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care, caregivers can transform the often challenging task of bathing into a more comfortable, cooperative, and dignified experience for older adults. Her focus on empathy, communication, and person-centered care ensures that the needs and feelings of those being cared for are always respected.

bathing older adults 1 Helping Older Adults Bathe, Using the Positive Approach to Care

Positive Approach to Care for Deescalating Conflicts

Posted on by Peter R. Abraldes
memory loss, dementia care, Philadelphia dementia care, Montgomery County dementia care, Rosemont dementia care

Teepa Snow and the Positive Approach to Care (“PAC”) team, emphasize several key strategies for deescalating tension between caregivers (“carepartners”) and individuals living with dementia. Her approach is rooted in the Positive Approach to Care, which focuses on understanding the person with dementia, adjusting care strategies, and promoting positive communication. Here are some of their recommendations:

1. Stay Calm and Use a Positive, Supportive Tone

  • Approach with empathy: The PAC stress the importance of remaining calm and non-confrontational. The care partner should use a gentle, positive tone of voice, avoiding frustration or anger, as people with dementia often react strongly to emotional cues.
  • Body language: Non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, body posture, and gestures are critical. Teepa advises maintaining a relaxed posture, a soft gaze, and open palms to convey safety and support.

2. Step Back and Observe

  • Recognize triggers: The PAC suggest that care partners should try to identify what might be causing the tension. Is the person with dementia feeling anxious, frustrated, or confused? Understanding the root cause can help the carepartner intervene more effectively.
  • Pause before reacting: Instead of reacting immediately, encourage caregivers to take a step back and assess the situation. This moment of reflection can allow both the carepartner and the person with dementia to cool down.

3. Use Positive Physical Approach (“PPA”)

  • Approach from the front: The PAC emphasize approaching the person living with dementia from the front, so they can see the care partner coming. Sudden movements or approaching from behind can be startling and escalate tension.
  • Create a connection: Establish eye contact, offer a smile, and touch gently if appropriate (for example, on the forearm or hand) to create a sense of trust and safety.

4. Modify Communication

  • Simplify language: The PAC advise carepartners to use short, simple sentences with clear instructions. This helps the person with dementia process the information more easily.
  • Validate emotions: Acknowledging the feelings of the person with dementia, even if their logic seems off, is crucial. For example, saying something like, “I see you’re upset. Let’s see how we can make this better” can help defuse a situation.
  • Avoid arguing or correcting: Instead of trying to convince the person of reality or correct them, go along with their perspective in a non-confrontational way. This prevents unnecessary conflict.

5. Redirection and Distraction

  • Shift the focus: Gently redirect the person’s attention to something else if they are fixated on something that is causing distress. This could be an activity, a change of environment, or engaging them in a simple task.
  • Offer a choice: Giving the person two simple options (e.g., “Would you like to sit here or over there?”) can help them feel a sense of control and diffuse tension.

6. Adapt Environment and Expectations

  • Minimize overstimulation: The environment can play a significant role in how a person with dementia responds. Reducing noise, simplifying the space, or turning off a TV can reduce confusion and agitation.
  • Adjust expectations: Encourage carepartners to meet the person where they are, adjusting tasks to the person’s current abilities and avoiding frustration with unrealistic expectations.

7. Use a “Hand-under-Hand” Technique

  • The PAC developed a method called the Hand-under-Hand technique, which allows the carepartner to guide the person with dementia through tasks, offering support and connection without being overpowering. This technique helps with both communication and physical interaction, providing a sense of safety and reassurance.

The PAC methods focus on fostering a compassionate, respectful relationship, where the carepartner seeks to understand the perspective and needs of the person living with dementia, thus preventing and deescalating tension effectively.