Stay Calm and Remain Positive
When trying to calm down a person with dementia it is important to remain positive and stay calm. It is essential that you don’t become angry or aggravated as this will only agitate them further. You need to remain calm and try to be patient so that you can help them to become more relaxed. If you are feeling overwhelmed, take some time to yourself and come back to the situation with a clear head.
Listen and Reassure
When a person with dementia is feeling anxious, it is important to listen to their concerns. Acknowledge their feelings and try to reassure them that they are safe and everything will be alright. Offer them comfort and explain that they are not in any danger. This can help to reduce their anxiety and provide a sense of comfort and security.
Engage in an Activity
Engaging in an activity with the person who has dementia can be a great way to calm them down. This can be anything from reading a book together, listening to music, or playing a simple game. Anything that can distract their mind from their anxiety can be beneficial. If the person is feeling overwhelmed, try to take them for a short walk or find something that can take their mind off the situation.
Be Empathetic and Compassionate
It is essential that you remain empathetic and compassionate when trying to calm down a person with dementia. Showing understanding and empathy can help to make them feel more secure and comfortable. Let them know that you are there for them and that you understand their feelings. This can help to reduce their anxiety and lower their stress levels.
Create a Relaxing Environment
Creating a relaxing environment is important when trying to calm down a person with dementia. Make sure the room is quiet and well lit. If possible, add some soothing music or sounds to the room. Try to remove any stimulating objects or items which could cause further agitation. This can help to create a peaceful atmosphere which can aid in calming them down.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy can be a great way to relax a person with dementia. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile and sandalwood can help to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. You can add a few drops of essential oils to a diffuser, or simply put some in a bowl of warm water and place it in the room. This can help to create a calming and soothing atmosphere.
Validation Therapy
Validation therapy is a form of psychological therapy which can help to calm down a person with dementia. This involves validating the person’s feelings and helping them to feel acknowledged. Instead of arguing or trying to change their mind, it is important to try to accept their feelings and recognize their distress. This can help to reduce their anxiety and make them feel more secure.
Stay Present
When dealing with a person with dementia, it is important to remain present in the moment. Don’t try to push them to think about the future or dwell on the past. Instead, focus on what they are feeling in the present moment and try to help them to stay focused on the here and now. This can help to reduce their anxiety and provide a sense of comfort and security.
Conclusion
Calming down a person with dementia can be a difficult task, however, there are several effective strategies that can be used. It is important to stay calm, listen to their concerns, offer comfort and reassurance, engage in an activity and create a relaxing environment. Aromatherapy, validation therapy and staying present can also be beneficial in helping to reduce their anxiety. By following these strategies, you can help to create a more relaxed atmosphere for the person who has dementia.