Caring for a loved one who has been diagnosed with dementia can feel overwhelming if you are the primary caregiver. It is not uncommon for caregivers to feel alone and unsure of what to expect next. Fortunately, there are online classes available to help you navigate the unfamiliar and often uncertain path of caring for a loved one with dementia.

Preserving dignity

It is important for your loved one to feel as independent as possible and continue to live a normal life. An online dementia care class will help you learn the importance of allowing your loved one to continue making decisions about their lifestyle, so they can continue to enjoy doing the things that are important to them. You will learn ways to supervise your loved one closely while keeping their dignity intact.

Learn communication skills

Communicating well with a loved one who has dementia is not always easy. As your loved one's dementia progresses, how you can communicate effectively will change. Learning how to navigate the communication process through various levels of dementia will help you understand your loved one better and learn helpful ways to communicate well.

Personal care tips

When someone is suffering from dementia, it is not uncommon for them to become careless about personal hygiene. You will learn how you can assist your loved one in a way that does not feel belittling to them. For instance, you may learn how to make personal care fun by offering to give them a manicure, fixing their hair, or giving them a new shower gel or scented soap to try.

Encourage hobbies and recreation

It is important for your loved one to continue doing the things they enjoy for recreation. Dementia patients often forget about past hobbies or fun things they used to do. You can encourage them to enjoy these activities by offering to participate with them.

Healthy nutrition

Those with dementia may resort to unhealthy eating habits. An online dementia care course will help you learn ways to help your loved one get the nutrition they need by following a healthy diet. You can assist them in planning healthy snacks and meals to keep them physically healthy.

When you are caring for a loved one with dementia, you want what is best for your loved one. However, it is also important that you learn to take care of yourself so you can provide the best care possible for your loved one. Online dementia care classes can help you make sure your loved one has the care they need while also helping you prevent the burnout that often occurs in caregivers.