Caring for someone with dementia? Here are some items that can help lighten the load…

Oct 21

It is no secret at this point that my mom has dementia and has been diagnosed for over 15 years. In our journey through caregiving we have been through it all- the ups and downs, the behaviours, the apathy, the drowsiness, the anxiety, the sadness, the hospital admissions… And while I wish there was a magic wand that could make all of this better, there are a few items that I have found helpful on both our journeys and my clients’ journeys which I hope may be helpful through yours…

#1) The Joy For All pets: So my mom was in the later stages when I introduced one of these robotic, lifelike toys to her and I think we may have missed the boat on this, but I have had many clients who swear by these and I think my mom would have loved it earlier on. These are moving, purring, barking pets that mimic real-life animals and can bring true comfort and joy to those who use them. We have a black and white cat (we had a black and white cat when I was growing up) who moves and purrs and reacts to touch. Some of my patients in the hospital carried these around (I am not sure how cleaning these works so I would look into this first) and were so comforted by them and some referred to them as their pets. Some would look for them when they were not on their laps and felt instant ease when they were reunited. And although my mom has not reacted much to them, my daughters love the kitty and play with it whenever they are over… It can be a great idea for all generations.

#2) Zinnia TV: Many of my clients or the people they care for have become frustrated with the television because it is no longer what it used to be for them. TV shows that were once enjoyable and exciting are now too difficult to follow and can induce anxiety. Favourite stations become a bundle of confusion and sadness can emerge when this realization and change becomes a reality. Enter Zinnia TV. A television experience that is custom made and tailored for those with dementia. No, it is not the old television show you or the person you care for may have once loved and it absolutely is not a replacement for this, but it is something that can bring back some of the enjoyment of the TV watching experience, especially for those who derive great meaning and memory from television watching. The website notes that it is ‘Gently paced. No confusing plots. No commercials.’ I have suggested it to clients in the past and some have really enjoyed it and found respite in it as well as their loved one finally wanted to watch television again.

#3) Cuddle for Keeps Buddie Bear: Although I have not tried this adorable weighted bear myself, when the Cuddle for Keeps founder, Suzanne, reached out to tell me about these amazing little bears, I could not resist sharing about them. Suzanne, having worked in healthcare for over 15 years, created these bears to provide comfort and calm to those who hold them. They come in 2 sizes (1lb and 2lbs) and a wide variety of colours. Bonus: they can provide comfort and ease to children as well! Another multi-generational option with an adorable twist. I know my mom would truly benefit from the Buddie Bear as she seeks comfort and often sucks on items and holds items to calm down.

#4) A large, visible calendar: I have linked a digital calendar version on Amazon, but when it comes to dementia, scheduling can be key and even an old fashioned paper calendar works well here (as long as it is simple and free of clutter and distraction). If the person with the dementia diagnosis is in the earlier stages and is able to participate in their daily planning, a visible and more simple calendar can help them read along and plan with the caregiver. The date and time of day should be large and simple, and the daily tasks should be familiar and similar to other days of the week to promote an easier to remember routine. Routine can be so essential, particularly when it comes to eating and sleeping and trying to mitigate sundowning and overall mental health.

#5) A Mini Exercise Bike: I once had a client who LOVED biking but was extremely frustrated because it was no longer realistic for them to bike outside due to safety and as they would often get lost. They felt a huge loss of the sport and also lost the ability to exercise daily very suddenly. In came the mini exercise bike- paired with a scenery video on YouTube of a beautiful bike trail, my client could suddenly take themself back to the trails and engage in the leg movement and exercise that they so loved. They remarked that while it wasn’t the same, it promoted so much joy and it was something they looked forward to doing daily. Of course, when it comes to exercise devices, we want to keep safety in mind and ensure the person using them are able to stay safe with use- regular supervision may be a consideration.

So what do you think? Let me know if any of these items have helped you so far or if you plan to bring them into your life to assist on your journey.

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