Depression is a common yet often overlooked for individuals living with dementia.
As a caregiver, understanding how to manage depression and Apathy can significantly improve the quality of life for your loved one.
💜TheDementiaGuy💜 offers valuable resources and dementia care training to empower caregivers with effective strategies. In this blog, I share practical tips to help you navigate this complex aspect of caregiving. Please message me if you are struggling.
Recognising the Signs of Depression in Dementia.
Depression in individuals with dementia can manifest differently from typical cases.
Common symptoms include:
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Persistent sadness or mood swings (verbal or physical emotions being displayed)
- Changes in sleep patterns (staying in bed more than usual)
- Loss of appetite and therefore loosing weight
- Increased irritability or agitation
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions. This can be as simple as they can’t even find the energy to choose clothing.
Early identification of these signs can help you address the issue promptly and seek
professional help if needed.
Practical Tips for Managing Depression in Dementia
- Create a Structured Routine
A consistent daily routine provides stability and reduces anxiety, which can help alleviate depressive symptoms. Include activities that your loved one enjoys and ideally, schedule them during their most alert and energetic times.
- Encourage Physical Activity
Engage your loved one in gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or light stretching. Physical activity releases endorphins, improves sleep, and promotes overall well-being. If they are chair bound, try armchair exercises. This has become very popular and I highly recommend it.
- Foster Social Connections
Isolation can exacerbate depression. Encourage visits from family and friends or, involve your loved one in group activities designed for individuals with dementia. Online support groups can also be a great way to maintain connections. Look for Dementia café’s, arts and craft clubs and day care centres to name a few.
- Create a Calm Environment
Reduce noise and clutter to create a serene atmosphere. Soft lighting, soothing music, and familiar items can help your loved one feel secure and relaxed. For those who like to cling to things or like to keep their hands busy. Look into fidget gadgets such as fidget blankets, teddies and boards you can place on their knee. (Message me for more information where to purchase these if required).
- Focus on Nutrition
A balanced diet rich in nutrients can positively impact mood and energy levels. Include foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar (consider intolerances as this is not practical for everyone).
- Use Validation Therapy
Instead of correcting or dismissing their feelings, validate their emotions. Empathy and understanding can ease feelings of frustration and sadness.
- Apathy
Apathy is a common symptom of dementia that can cause people to lose interest, motivation, and persistence. It can develop gradually as a reaction to the challenges of living with dementia. Apathy can come in many different forms:
- Sitting for long periods without doing anything
- No care for self-appearance (Not wanting to wash/ shower or even shave, no interest in leaving their room or home, no interest in activities, hobbies or interests.
- Difficult to reason with
- Being less interested in talking to new people or joining conversations
- Being less curious or enthusiastic
Apathy can be very difficult as a care giver to manage. As on most occasions you really will struggle to get through to the person you are caring for.
- Seek Professional Help
If depression or Apathy persists, consult healthcare professionals for guidance. They may recommend therapy, medication, or both, tailored to the individual’s needs.
I am personally against sedative medications in the vast majority of cases. However, certain medications that reduce anxiety, apathy, depression and when someone is persistently expressing emotions verbally and physically where their own health is at risk. Medication intervention often has positive and life changing effects.
Please feel free to contact me at any time if you are having difficulty caring for a loved one. You as the carer needs caring for. Take deep breaths, you are doing an amazing.