Coronavirus (COVID-19): tips for people living with dementia

by | Coronavirus - COVID-19, Dementia, Seniors Health

Be mindful of the symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) such as fever, a cough, sore throat, tiredness and shortness of breath. If you display any of these symptoms, contact your doctor for advice or call the Coronavirus Health Information Line for advice on 1800 020 080.

Practise proper hygiene:

Tips on proper hand washing can be found on the World Health Organization website.

If you cannot get to a sink to wash your hands, hand sanitiser or anti-bacterial hand wipes may be a quick alternative.

Try to cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue, instead of your hands, and ensure the tissue is discarded in the bin.

Make sure that any visitors wash their hands or use hand sanitiser.

When cleaning pay attention to things that are handled often, such as remote controls, door handles, taps and phones.

This is a stressful time for many people in our community. Find some tips to reduce your stress here.

For the most up to date information and advice about coronavirus visit the Department of Health website.

If you live alone during this time, you may need to put in place additional strategies so you can manage day-to-day tasks, continue to be safe, independent and in touch with your networks.

Having a good support network in place is very important when you live alone.These networks may include family, friends, neighbours or professionals. They might offer help with practical things you find difficult, look out for your wellbeing, or just be there to share your thoughts and concerns with.

Put plans in place to connect with others, during this time it may need to be over the phone or via video links.

Asking for and accepting help can be  difficult. You may feel that it will stop you being independent. However, having people around who can help you, if you need it, is important for everyone during this time.

Keep a list of contacts by your phone so you can reach them if you need to.Talk to other people regularly. You could arrange regular phone calls.

Stay connected with technology. If you have a computer, smartphone or tablet, consider using a video calling program such as Skype or social media to stay in touch with people.
If you don’t have any relatives or friends, or if you are no longer in touch, there are still ways of getting support and staying connected. Online communities or forums allow you to talk to other people with dementia.

If you are not already, you may consider becoming a member of Dementia Alliance International (DAI) as they offer peer-to-peer support groups for people with a diagnosis of a dementia. These groups meet regularly to discuss their experiences, problems
and strategies for coping and living more positively with dementia. They also have opportunities for one to one buddying and mentoring. For more information contact DAI at info@infodai.org or go to their website www.joindai.org

We are aware that many social opportunities have been cancelled or limited during this time. It is important to continue to structure your day and include activities that you enjoy or are important to you.

You may want to break your day up by setting your alarm to change activities every hour or every couple of hours. You may schedule time for a walk, or spending time in the garden, calling a friend or family member, listening to music, reading or watching your favourite television show or movie. The Dementia Australia Library also has a number of e-books and audiobooks available online

Please ask for help if you need it. Contact your doctor or the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 for information about extra assistance.

Where can I get advice about dementia?

Dementia Australia’s National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 is available to provide information about dementia. We can also give you tips if you find it difficult to follow the Department of Health advice about coronavirus.

We do not offer personalised medical advice, however we can direct you towards other services and provide support.

Ideas for ways to pass the time in self-isolation

Staying as active as possible is important. Try some gentle exercises either in a chair or around the house.

Put plans in place to connect with others, during this difficult time it may need to be over the phone or via video links.

Participating in activities at home such as reading books and magazines, doing jigsaws, listening to music, knitting, watching tv and listening to the radio may help.

Consider sensory experiences such as hand, neck and foot massages, hair brushing, smelling flowers from your garden, or a rummage box that contains things that the person has been interested in.

Why not try some artistic expression? For tips on art at home visit our help sheet.

If you have an iPad or Android tablet you can down load A Better Visit.

The A Better Visit app features a range of two-player games such as Tic Tac Tango, Marble Maze and Gone Fishing  designed to enhance communication and facilitate positive social interactions between people with dementia, their carers and families.

The Dementia Australia Library has a number of e-books and audiobooks available online. Browse our online collection today at www.dementia.org.au/library

There are also ways to explore the world without leaving the couch. Many museums, theme parks and zoos are available to explore virtually.

Some of the many to choose from are: