Post by alice on Mar 16, 2020 12:10:51 GMT -5
Somebody I care about is living with dementia. What should I do about coronavirus?
If you’re caring for a person living with dementia, you may be more worried about coronavirus.
There are some things you can do to help prevent the person from catching any germs or viruses. If you need to self-isolate, there are also other ways to support the person with dementia.
Check that they have handwash and hand sanitiser available – and that any visitors know to make use of it
Clean things that are handled a lot, such as remote controls, door handles and taps
If the person or their primary carer is self-isolating, you might help out with practical tasks. The person might need shopping dropped off, medicine collected or some library books left for them – ask how you can help
Make sure the person has access to the medication they need. If you or the person with dementia is advised to self-isolate, speak to a GP or local pharmacist to make sure they will have a supply. Keep checking in to make sure they are continuing to take the right medication.
Check that they know who to call if they get unwell – leave the number prominently displayed
If the person is going to be stuck in doors for a while, encourage them to stay active and consider gentle exercises. Try to make sure they have activities that they can engage in at home as well; reading, magazines, jigsaws, music, knitting, their favourite TV/radio programmes available
Keep in touch. If you can’t visit the person, then stay in contact by phone, post, email or Skype. Tell the person that you’re thinking of them and encourage others to do so as well.
If you attend a group and have questions, contact the group facilitator. If this changes we will let you know.
Where can I get advice about dementia?
24/7 Helpline
800.272.3900 they are there for you!
If you’re caring for a person living with dementia, you may be more worried about coronavirus.
There are some things you can do to help prevent the person from catching any germs or viruses. If you need to self-isolate, there are also other ways to support the person with dementia.
Check that they have handwash and hand sanitiser available – and that any visitors know to make use of it
Clean things that are handled a lot, such as remote controls, door handles and taps
If the person or their primary carer is self-isolating, you might help out with practical tasks. The person might need shopping dropped off, medicine collected or some library books left for them – ask how you can help
Make sure the person has access to the medication they need. If you or the person with dementia is advised to self-isolate, speak to a GP or local pharmacist to make sure they will have a supply. Keep checking in to make sure they are continuing to take the right medication.
Check that they know who to call if they get unwell – leave the number prominently displayed
If the person is going to be stuck in doors for a while, encourage them to stay active and consider gentle exercises. Try to make sure they have activities that they can engage in at home as well; reading, magazines, jigsaws, music, knitting, their favourite TV/radio programmes available
Keep in touch. If you can’t visit the person, then stay in contact by phone, post, email or Skype. Tell the person that you’re thinking of them and encourage others to do so as well.
If you attend a group and have questions, contact the group facilitator. If this changes we will let you know.
Where can I get advice about dementia?
24/7 Helpline
800.272.3900 they are there for you!
I am no longer able to hold your hand my beloved but I cherish the remembrance of your hand in mine...and the wonderful person that touched so many lives with joy. : )