Comfort and security in dementia

When someone is diagnosed with dementia, their world slowly changes. It brings many questions, uncertainties, and emotions for both the person and those around them. Comfort, safety, and security become extra important.

What is dementia?

Dementia is a collective term for various brain diseases in which memory and other cognitive functions gradually deteriorate. Common forms include Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. People with dementia experience difficulty with daily activities, memory loss, disorientation, and changes in behavior or mood.

How to cope with dementia?

Coping with dementia requires a great deal of patience, understanding, and love. Everyone experiences the disease differently. It's important to be mindful of the person's world. Small gestures can mean a lot:

• Speak calmly and clearly

• Maintain structure and recognisability

• Give time and space

• Avoid busy or chaotic environments

• Offer physical closeness and comfort

What should you not do around people with dementia?

There are also things that are better avoided because they can cause unrest or confusion:

• Don't constantly correct

• Don't ask complicated questions

• Don't get irritated by repetition

• Avoid discussions about forgotten events

It's important to prioritize safety and security. It's not about what's actually true, but how someone feels.

Comfort for Dementia: How Can a Weighted Cuddle Help?

Many people with dementia can experience feelings of loneliness and anxiety. A weighted toy offers a sense of presence in such moments, without words. The weight and soft texture create a sense of security, just like a warm embrace. This can help reduce tension and promote relaxation.

A support worker acts as a reassuring companion. Always available, even when words fail. They offer comfort , both during the day and at night, when anxiety often rises.