What do when daily tasks get harder - doing regular chores, paying bills, etc.
When daily tasks become more difficult for a person living with dementia, family members can take a proactive and supportive role in helping them maintain a sense of independence while easing frustration and confusion. Below are practical tips, actions, and recommendations for managing daily tasks as they become harder to handle:
1. Simplify and Break Down Tasks
Break tasks into smaller steps: Divide tasks like dressing, cooking, or cleaning into smaller, manageable steps. Offer one instruction at a time, such as “First, we put the soap on the sponge, then we wash the dishes.”
Demonstrate tasks: Show them how to do certain tasks by demonstrating each step. If needed, do the task alongside them.
Use prompts and reminders: Visual or verbal cues can help. For example, you might use sticky notes or a whiteboard to remind them of the next step.
2. Use Tools and Aids to Support Independence
Use labels and signs: Label cupboards, drawers, and household items to make it easier for them to find things. Clear signage can help reduce confusion.
Calendars and organizers: Use large, easy-to-read calendars or digital planners to track appointments, chores, and bills. You can also use color-coding to make certain tasks stand out (e.g., red for urgent bills).
Checklists: Create simple checklists for daily tasks such as dressing, taking medication, or cooking. Place them where they’ll be seen (e.g., by the bathroom mirror for a morning routine).
3. Provide Gentle Reminders and Assistance
Use gentle reminders: Regularly remind them about appointments, household tasks, or bills in a calm, non-rushed manner. Try not to overwhelm them with too much information at once.
Set reminders with technology: Use digital devices like smartphones, tablets, or voice assistants (e.g., Alexa or Google Home) to set reminders for tasks such as taking medication or attending appointments.
Assist with tasks gradually: When possible, let them start the task on their own and step in to assist only when needed. This helps preserve their independence.
4. Create a Structured Routine
Establish a daily routine: Having a structured routine can make daily tasks easier by reducing the need to make decisions. A set schedule helps them know what to expect and when things will happen.
Plan tasks around their best time of day: If they are more alert in the morning, try scheduling important tasks like paying bills, running errands, or attending appointments during that time.
Use routine-friendly cues: For example, use a favorite radio program or mealtime to signal that it's time for certain activities.
5. Provide Physical Assistance When Necessary
Assist with grooming and dressing: Lay out clothes in the order they should be put on, or help them choose between two simple outfits. Offer physical support when needed, but let them do as much as they can on their own.
Help with household chores: Simplify chores like cooking or cleaning. You might pre-prepare meals or have easy-to-heat meals available, or you could work together to clean one room at a time.
Supervise but empower: When they are performing a task, supervise without taking over completely. Allowing them to complete parts of the task can provide a sense of accomplishment.
6. Automate and Simplify Financial Tasks
Set up automatic payments: To avoid missed payments, set up automatic payments for utilities, rent, or other bills. You can also arrange direct deposit for pensions or social security.
Simplify finances: Consolidate bank accounts and credit cards to reduce complexity. Consider appointing a trusted family member to help manage finances.
Use a bill organizer: Use a physical bill organizer with clear sections for each month or due date, or set up a digital system that automatically tracks bill payments.
7. Assist with Time Management and Appointments
Help with scheduling: Offer to assist with making appointments and tracking them on a shared calendar. You can also provide transport to appointments, helping ease the stress of managing schedules.
Visual reminders for appointments: Place appointment cards or reminders on the refrigerator, near the phone, or where they are easily visible.
Offer accompaniment: Go with them to medical appointments, meetings, or social events. It provides emotional support and ensures they don’t forget key information.
8. Create a Dementia-Friendly Living Space
Declutter their environment: An organized and simple living space can reduce confusion and frustration. Ensure commonly used items are easy to find and within reach.
Use adaptive equipment: Consider adaptive tools that simplify daily tasks, such as utensils with easy grips for eating, or pill organizers for medication management.
Install safety measures: Make sure there are grab bars in the bathroom, non-slip mats in the kitchen, and other modifications to ensure safety during everyday tasks.
9. Encourage Them to Stay Active
Involve them in light chores: Ask them to help with small, manageable tasks like folding laundry, watering plants, or setting the table. This keeps them active and engaged while giving them a sense of purpose.
Exercise together: Encourage physical activity like walking or stretching, which can improve both physical health and mental clarity.
Use social engagement: Social activities, even simple ones like having tea with friends or family, can keep them engaged and reduce feelings of isolation, which may make tasks seem less daunting.
10. Provide Emotional and Psychological Support
Encourage patience: When they struggle with tasks, offer reassurance and praise for the effort they are putting in. Avoid pointing out mistakes or taking over tasks too quickly.
Acknowledge their frustration: If they feel frustrated by their inability to complete a task, acknowledge their feelings and remind them that it’s okay to ask for help.
Celebrate small successes: When they successfully complete a task, no matter how small, celebrate it. This can help maintain their confidence and sense of self-worth.
11. Use Memory Aids and Cognitive Tools
Use memory aids: Tools like digital or written notes, pill organizers, and “to-do” lists can help them manage tasks. Visual reminders placed around the home can act as subtle cues.
Use clocks and alarms: Consider using large digital clocks that show both the time and the day, as well as timers for cooking or other timed tasks.
Cognitive therapy tools: Engage them in simple puzzles, games, or activities designed to stimulate the brain and memory, which can help them remain mentally active and focused.
By integrating these approaches into their daily life, family members can reduce the strain of managing tasks for someone living with dementia, while also empowering them to remain as independent as possible. Offering consistent support, structured routines, and simplifying the environment can go a long way in easing the challenges they face.
Source: Alzheimer’s Association
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