What To Do When a Loved one With Dementia Refuses Help

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Coping with a loved one who has dementia and refuses help can be challenging and emotional. Many families find themselves unsure how to navigate through this difficult and sensitive situation.

 

At St Margarets Homecare, we offer advice for families seeking help for their loved one with dementia, especially when that person feels strongly that they do not need help.

Trying to understand the underlying reasons behind their refusal is a good starting point and can help you empower families to approach the situation with confidence and clarity.

 

Understanding the Challenges

There are several reasons a loved one may refuse help.

 

Denial is an understandable factor, as they may not fully recognise the extent of their condition. Accepting help at home can be daunting as it symbolises a loss of independence, so fear can play a significant role.

 

Additionally, cognitive impairments often lead to confusion, making new people and routines overwhelming. Your loved one may feel embarrassed or ashamed to admit they need help at home.

 

Understanding these underlying emotions is crucial in addressing their resistance and finding effective ways to provide support.

 

Communicate with Empathy

It is important to always communicate with empathy and understanding. We recommend using simple, clear language to explain why assistance is necessary, and focus on specific examples of how home care can improve their quality of life.

 

It is also critical to reassure them that their feelings are valid and understandable. You will build trust and support by acknowledging their emotions. This will hopefully hlp make them more receptive to accepting assistance at home.

 

Additionally, be patient and understanding if they struggle to express themselves or become agitated during the conversation. Dementia can affect communication skills and emotional regulation, so it’s essential to approach these discussions with patience and compassion.

 

Involve Them in Decisions

Involving a loved one in decision-making will provide them with a sense of control and autonomy, which is very important when you are dealing with dementia.

 

Have open and honest conversations about the different types of home care help available to them. Run through the benefits and purposes of each option clearly and take on board their concerns and preferences. This approach respects their independence and helps them feel valued and heard.

 

Offer them choices by presenting various home care options, such as in-home care, live-in care, or periodic visiting care. Discuss the specific services each option provides, like assistance with daily activities, medical support, or companionship. You can then mix different types of care to create a routine that they find comfortable.

 

Introduce Help At Home Gradually

Introducing help gradually is effective in easing yor loved into accepting assistance, especially if they are resistant at first. By starting with small, non-intrusive forms of home care support, you can gradually build their confidence and trust in the care process.

 

Identify areas they may need assistance but would be less resistant to receiving help. This could include tasks such as light housekeeping or meal preparation. Approach these tasks as collaborative efforts, involving them in the process as much as possible.

 

Patience and flexibility are critical as you all transition together.

 

Seek Professional Guidance

Consulting with care professionals who specialise in dementia care can provide valuable insights if a loved one with dementia refuses help. These specialists have vast experience and can offer practical advice on how to communicate effectively with someone who has dementia, ensuring that your interactions are as positive and productive as possible.

 

The Right Choices For Your Family

Choosing the right approach can significantly enhance the quality of life for your loved one and will put your mind at rest. By understanding the challenges, communicating empathetically, involving them in decisions, and gradually introducing help, you can navigate this difficult situation more effectively.

 

Exploring various home care services such as live-in care, flexible visiting home care, or overnight care ensures that your parent can receive the support they need in a manner that respects their dignity and preferences.

 

Let St Margarets Homecare Help

Contact St Margarets Homecare today to learn more about how we can assist you in finding the best care solution for your loved one.

 

We are an award-winning home care service who have serviced Harrogate, Selby, York and surrounding all areas for over 36 years.

 

As industry leaders in private home care and supported living, we know what it takes to provide the right level of home care and support so that you, or loved one, can retain independence in the familiar surroundings of your own home.

 

We understand that each family’s situation is unique, and needs can change over time.

 

Our bespoke home care service will help you or your loved one to stay at home and enjoy the best quality of life.