TIPS FOR DEMENTIA FAMILY CAREGIVERS IN TIME OF COVID 19

There is no reason to believe dementia increases the risk for COVID-19, because dementia itself does not increase the risk for flu. However, the advanced age and common chronic health conditions that often accompany dementia may pose the risk of serious complications should a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s contract the Coronavirus. In addition, COVID-19 may actually worsen cognitive impairment.

Please be cognizant that dementia-related behaviors may increase your loved one’s chances of contracting the Coronavirus. They may forget to wash their hands or not follow recommended protocols to prevent illness. They may need written reminders and extra support to remember important hygienic practices from one day to the next. Social distancing practices are particularly important to protect them from the Coronavirus.

Family caregivers should care for themselves at this time as well. Depleted immune systems due to the stress that often comes with taking care of a loved one, can put you at risk too. Caregivers of those living with Alzheimer's or dementia are struggling with the new realities of caring for a loved one alone, during the need to self quarantine, and without the help of other friends and family while community resources are closed.

Communicating through a mask at this time can be challenging when dealing with the elderly, especially those with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Remember your non-verbal body language speaks volumes. The tone of your voice, your posture, the speed at which you speak, and your mood should be communicating positivity and patience, not anger or frustration. If it is harder for your loved one to understand you use gestures and pantomime to make yourself understood. Be calm and approach them from the front. Make a mental note to be sure they are wearing their glasses AND their hearing aids! You may have to speak a bit louder and more distinctly to be heard since your lips and facial expression cannot be seen for cues and clues.

Increased confusion is often the first symptom of any illness for people with dementia. If your loved one shows rapidly increased confusion, contact your health care provider, especially if they are having difficulty breathing or present a high fever. Seek the advice of your doctor before going directly to an emergency room which is high risk environment for transmission of the Coronavirus. Your doctor may be able to diagnose and treat your loved one via telemedicine without a visit to the hospital.

To be extra safe at home, follow hand washing and hygiene guidelines from the CDC, and consider the following tips:

• Consider placing signs in the bathroom, kitchen and elsewhere to remind your loved one to wash their hands with soap for 20 seconds. Demonstrate thorough hand-washing for them.
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be a quick alternative to hand-washing if your loved one cannot get to a sink or wash their hands easily on their own.
• Disinfect high touch surfaces throughout the home at least once a day.
• Ask your pharmacist or doctor about refilling prescriptions for a greater number of days to reduce trips to the pharmacy.
• Think ahead and make alternative plans for care management if you, the family caregiver should become sick.
• If the person you are caring for has regular doctor’s appointments to manage dementia or other health conditions, inquire about a telehealth appointment instead of an in-office visit.
• As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Medicare has recently expanded telehealth benefits to allow seniors to access health care from the safety of their homes.
• Keep the daily routine as much as possible! Keep regular meal times, medication times, wake and sleep times. And don’t forget time to exercise. it is important for seniors with dementia, and comforting when the Coronavirus pandemic can bring stress and fear. The brain can’t process new information easily so a regular schedule provides needed stability.
• There are virtual support groups through the Alzheimer’s Association and a free 24/7 helpline at 1-800-272-3900.

Our caregivers are skilled in Alzheimer’s care and well trained in the proper protocols to prevent transmission of the Coronavirus. Their kindness and compassion can help ease the stress and loneliness that comes from social distancing for both you and your loved one. We will shop, cook, manage meds and do the necessary disinfecting of high touch surfaces needed in the home. In addition, our caregivers can also help prevent falls to keep your loved one out of the hospital, which is a high risk environment at this time. Help is just a phone call away at 561-328-7611.

Till Next Time!

Irv Seldin, JD, President and Owner, Visiting Angels of the Palm Beaches

This article is not intended as medical advice.