CAREFUL COMMUNICATING
Q) My mother has been diagnosed with dementia and there are some days where communication with her is very difficult. How can I understand her and help her tell me what she needs?
Communicating with someone who lives with dementia can be difficult and requires patience, empathy and simplicity. Try keeping sentences short and direct and give choices instead of asking open-ended questions. Be sure to remain calm and try not to argue or correct the person. It’s also helpful to give them plenty of time to respond. Focus on validating their feelings and removing distractions or things that may make your Mom uncomfortable.
INJURED CARER
Q) While helping my father out of bed, I strained my back and have trouble moving. How can I make sure he’s looked after until I’m better?
Glad you’re reaching out for help. Talk to local home care services. Survey family, friends, or neighbours to see who can share the care and step in while you recover. Consider help from a professional if no one else is available. An occupational therapist for a home safety assessment and learning the best lifting techniques may also be worth considering to prevent injuries in the future.
WHEELCHAIR WOES
Q) My wheelchair requires expensive repairs and finding a new one to fit my budget is difficult. Are there funding programs?
There are several avenues for assistance. Talk to your doctor and ask for an OT or physio referral. And, ask about provincial government programs, such as Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program, Ontario Works, or even Veterans Affairs Canada to see if you qualify. Charities like March of Dimes Canada, Easter Seals, Lions Club. You may also want to explore low-cost or refurbished medical equipment from specialized medical supply stores. If you feel you need further assistance, you can try dialing or visiting 211 to find community and social services that may be able to help.
HELP REMEMBERING
Q) I’ve been struggling to keep track of everything my step-daughter needs, like doctor’s appointments and when to take her medication. What can I do so I don’t forget anything?
Don’t panic. Time management is one of the biggest challenges a caregiver who is juggling several roles can face. The good news …. There are many things you can do to make sure both you and her are on top of things. a) Use technology to help you create a daily schedule b) Set daily reminders and using a shared calendar can help keep everything in order. c) Make sure to set yourself time for breaks in between your tasks as well to help you avoid burnout. With time, even the smallest adjustments can make a big difference.
The questions in this issue of Caregiver Solutions were answered by the experts at the Canadian Abilities Foundation and Canada Cares (www.canadianabilities.org).
Photos: Leyli Nova. Prakriti Khajuria. Nick Fancher. Bishan Thapa Magar.
