Description
Caregiver Training for Patients with Dementia
Re: Memory Training for Caregivers of Individuals with ADRD
Download this training resource to help your care team or caregivers advocate for their loved ones in nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities. We all know many of our clients could benefit from more occupational therapy, and caregivers want to know how they can advocate for their loved ones!
Longer Description:
Explaining dementia to caregivers in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) (Caregiver Training) requires sensitivity and clarity, especially when addressing the emotional aspects and the role of occupational therapy (OT) in providing support. Here’s a simplified guide:
- Dementia Beyond Memory: During Caregiver Training, start by emphasizing that dementia is more than just a memory problem. It affects various aspects of a person’s cognition, behavior, and emotions. Help caregivers understand that individuals with dementia may experience changes in mood, judgment, communication, and daily functioning.
- Addressing Feelings of Caregivers: Acknowledge the emotional impact of caregiving for someone with dementia. Caregivers may feel overwhelmed, frustrated, guilty, or sad. Encourage open communication and provide opportunities for caregivers to express their feelings and seek support from others in similar situations.
- Harmful Effects of Over-Helping: Explain that while it’s natural to want to assist someone with dementia, overhelping can actually be detrimental. Over-helping may lead to a loss of independence, decreased self-esteem, and a decline in functional abilities. Encourage caregivers to strike a balance between providing support and allowing the person with dementia to do things for themselves as much as possible.
- Ongoing Research: Share information about ongoing research and advancements in the understanding and treatment of dementia. Highlight the importance of staying informed about new developments and evidence-based practices in dementia care.
- Role of Occupational Therapy (OT): Explain how occupational therapists play a crucial role in dementia care by focusing on maximizing independence and quality of life. OT interventions may include:
- Environmental modifications to support safety and independence at home or in the SNF.
- Adaptive strategies and assistive devices to facilitate activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, grooming, and eating.
- Cognitive interventions to enhance memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
- Engagement in meaningful activities and routines to promote social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and emotional well-being.
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