Being hospitalized is never a pleasant experience for anyone, young or old. But, it’s been proven to be especially harmful to seniors with dementia. Patients with dementia are at increased risk of having unfavorable after-effects following inpatient treatment, including worsened symptoms of dementia and an increased likelihood of malnourishment and falls. As a family caregiver, there are some things you can do to help make a hospital stay beneficial for a senior, especially with Dementia.
Prepare in advance
Having a hospital kit packed and ready to go can make the admissions process and the hospital stay goes much smoother, especially in an emergency. In the kit, include current insurance information, relevant health information, a list of medications being taken, and basic medical history.
Also, include a change of clothes for you and your loved one, a pencil and paper to jot down info from doctors and nurses, a few favorite snacks, a spare phone charger, and some reading material to keep you occupied.
Keep communication open
Though their lucidity may fluctuate daily, especially while in the hospital, explain to your loved ones what’s happening – why they’re there, what they can expect, and how long they might be there. Be gentle and reassuring, especially if they’re confused, scared, or agitated. Their dementia symptoms can become more pronounced in hospital settings because sleep is disturbed regularly, and their daily routine has been upset.
Take along pieces of home
Bringing items your loved one is familiar with can help keep them calmer – photographs, a stuffed animal, or a favorite blanket and pillow can make their stay much more comfortable.
Ask for a private room
One may not always be available or affordable, but a private room will be relaxing for your loved one and you. Sharing a room with another patient means twice the noise and disruptions, which can be overwhelming for someone with dementia. The additional privacy also makes visiting with your loved one more enjoyable without worrying about disturbing a roommate.
If in doubt – ask
Ask as many questions as needed to understand your loved one’s diagnosis, treatment, and recovery time. For example, ask how treatments may affect their mental state and behavior. Understanding their condition at the hospital helps you make better decisions so you care for them at home.
Stay with them as much as possible
A familiar face works wonders in helping them to stay calm. Try to be with them as much as you can, especially in the evening, during meals, and when they’re undergoing medical tests or procedures. Try to arrange for other family members to be there when you can’t.
Get help when they return home
When you return home from an inpatient stay, you and your loved one will probably be exhausted physically, mentally, and emotionally. Respite care assistance from a professional caregiver can give you the time you need to rest and recharge, and provide you with peace of mind knowing your loved one is receiving excellent care.
Assisting Hands Home Care serving Boston Northwest is here to help your loved one with dementia transition back to being at home. Our caregivers are experienced in assisting seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia to remain safe and comfortable in their own homes. If you are seeking care for yourself or a loved one living in Bedford, Winchester, Concord Massachusetts, or throughout the Northwest Boston area, contact us today.
Call us at (781) 797-3299 to learn more about our services. Whether you need us a few hours a day or around the clock, we’re here for your family.
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