Senior Services
Coping with Dementia and Resources
• Reduce over stimulation. For example, keep the TV or stereo at a regular volume and never have them both playing at the same time.
• Make their environment as successful as possible. Label items that are no longer familiar to the person. Paint doorways a different color than the wall.
• Take time out with your loved one. Take them to places they used to go on their own, reminisce about things they used to do. Keep their old memories alive and make new ones.
• Keep direction simple. Prompt just one step at a time. Always speak clearly.
• Be aware of your body language. Maintain friendly facial expressions and tone of voice.
• Keep a structured and consistent routine.
• Always use a statement instead of a demand. For example tell your loved one to “come with me over here,” instead of “you must go this way.”
• Always reassure someone who is anxious or confused, no matter how many times you have to do it.
• If your loved one is agitated, distract them to a simple task like folding clothes or sorting them by color. This will give them a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
• Keep a sense of humor. Remember you are now making memories one at a time.
• Take care of yourself. Join a support group, spend time with friends or watch your favorite television show.
Help is available:
People Inc.’s Seniors Unlimited is a unique respite program created to meet the special needs of those who have developed dementia or memory loss from Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, strokes,heart disease or any other illness.
Your loved one will enjoy:
• A safe, friendly atmosphere and caring staff.
• Opportunities to socialize, make friends and share experiences.
• Exercises to promote balance, circulation, coordination and flexibility.
• An art therapy program that combines music, poetry and imagery to encourage self-esteem and self-expression.
• Hot, nutritious meals.
• Pet therapy, cooking sessions, music appreciation and so much more!
For more information:
Call Seniors Unlimited at(716) 853-4500
310 Delaware Ave., Buffalo
Resources
Alzheimer's Association
of Western New York
(716) 626-0600
www.alzwny.org
Coordinated Care
(716) 858-2307
www.coordinatedcare.org
Crisis Services
(716) 834-3131
www.crisisservices.org
Eldercare Locator
1-800-677-1116
Erie County Department of Senior Services
(716) 858-8526
Erie County Caregiver Coalition
(716) 858-8526
www.eriecountycaregiver.org
Hospice Care
(716) 686-8000
www.palliativecare.org
Meals on Wheels
(716) 822-2002
www.mowbuffalo.com
Network In Aging of Western New York, Inc.
(716) 829-3712
www.networkinaging.com
New York State Office for the Aging
1-800-342-9871
www.aging.state.ny.us
People Inc.’s Seniors Unlimited Program
(716) 853-4500
www.people.inc.org
United Way
(716) 887-2626
www.uwbec.org
Definitions
Dementia is a group of conditions that gradually destroy brain cells and lead to progressive decline in mental function.
Alzheimer’s Disease is a type of dementia destroying a person’s memory and ability to learn, reason, communicate and perform activities of daily living.