How to take care of elders with early-stage dementia?

Jointly set up by Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Tai Po Hospital (TPH) and the Salvation Army Tai Po Integrated Service for Senior Citizens earlier, the Tai Po Dementia Care Link plans to train 2,000 ‘dementia supporters’ in the community to help dementia patients and their family members. According to Dr Victor Lui, one of the core members and Associate Consultant (Psychiatry) at TPH, it is estimated that five to eight in every 100 elders aged over 65 may suffer from dementia. Dr Lui shares some practical tips on caring elders with early-stage dementia.

My father likes to go out without prior notice. We have to find him via appeal on Facebook. I’m so worried that I can’t focus on my work.

Care tips

Help patients maintain a familiar living environment and develop daily habits. Encourage them to do simple housework to develop a sense of belonging in family. Use specially designed door lock to prevent them from going out alone. Give them a phone with built-in GPS to facilitate locating them in case they get lost.

My mother often forgets what I’ve said and blames me for no reason. I feel frustrated and don’t know how to communicate with her!

Care tips

Speak in language familiar to patient. Use simple words and short sentences, and mind the attitude and tone. Be patient and tolerant to avoid conflicts.

Grandma loves to wake up at 3am and wander in the living room. She falls easily and we often have to escort her to accident & emergency department. It is a worrying situation.

Care tips

Keep sharp tools, drugs and detergents out of patients’ reach to prevent injury or misuse. Make sure that the floor is clear from stumble blocks such as carpets, wires and other debris. Install handrail, non-slippery floor tiles and night light fixtures in bathroom to minimise the risk of fall.

My father-in-law is unhappy with the deterioration of his memories; he even became suicidal. What should we do?

Care tips

When a patient gets suicidal, seek medical advice immediately. Pay attention to the patient’s emotional changes and ensure that the patient stays in a safe environment.