Caregivers and families we are again moving into a change in the way light illuminates our way. When providing care for dementia patients or family member with dementia, please keep in mind that the light will play differently in this season. As the shadows get longer or lower, and the car lights are on dusk, things we know all too well may appear different. We must try not to berate what may appear quite different to another. Some of these unusual sights can be easily figured out while others may be more difficult. It is time for us to put on our detective hats and come up with a creatable solution for the problem.
First solve to the belief of those living here and then find a solution to fixing the problem. Otherwise, you may face a long trip on the hallucination highway. This is really very simple to do and can be fixed without medication. First of all believe the person and have them show you if possible where and how it is coming to their attention. Then reassure them, and start working with the lightening in this area. This may require closing a blind, turning on a light, covering a mirror, moving a plant, the important thing is that the person is given confirmation and then the frightening sight is gone.
Accomplishing this task will save medical cost, frayed nerves and insurmountable irritations; everyone will feel better in the home including those living in it. We each can deal with this situation using some empathy and creativity. See the following books at www.barnesandnoble.com “Gentle Care” by Moyra Jones or “Caregiving tips for Everyone” by M.G. Walker
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