It may be frustrating when your loved ones refuse care such as not wanting to get dressed or refusing to eat their medication. They may feel embarrassed when they require assistance or agitated when they are unable to manage on their own. Here is a guide to helping them when ypir loved one refuses care.
Find Possible Causes
If your loved one is refusing care, it may be beneficial to consider what occurred before the problem. Ask yourself these questions to identify the cause of the problem:
- Does it happen when you are bathing or changing their clothes?
- Could they be reacting to your facial or vocal expressions of rage or frustrations?
- Could they feel rushed or hurried?
- Are they being asked to do too much? Or do they not understand what is happening or being said?
They may be refusing care due to feelings of hunger, thirst, hotness, tiredness, or having the need to use the restroom. When people with Alzheimer’s are sick, they may appear to be denying help. They can appear less hungry, weaker, or fatigued. They could also be thinking that something is happening, even when nothing is, somewhat like a delusion.
Distract Them
If they are continuously refusing your help, try taking a break by distracting them. You can bring them on a walk or give them something to snack on. When supervising them, ensure that they are comfortable and relaxed with the distraction. After they have calmed down, try doing the activity again.
Speak Calmly
When your loved ones with memory-related conditions are frustrated and refuse your care, this is not the time to get irritated or angry. As our loved ones can sense our anger or irritation, it might make things worse as they may feel bad. Instead, try to speak softly and calmly, even if you do not feel it. Try to repeat yourself slowly so that they can comprehend and give them simple choices so that it is easier. If you can’t seem to speak calmly, take a step back for a few minutes to calm yourself down by taking deep breaths.
Ask Questions to Gain Insights
Asking questions can help you to understand why your loved ones are refusing to accept your care and assistance. When you ask questions, you can gain insights that can assist you in addressing your loved one’s concerns and worries, as well as adjusting to put them at ease. Avoid asking accusatory questions instead, ask them to tell you more about how they are feeling.
Break Tasks into Simple Steps
When you are giving instructions to your loved ones, break them down into smaller steps so that they can understand them better. You should also take your time with the instructions and not rush them. Before you do anything, tell them specifically what you are about to do, especially if you are going to touch them.
Experience Memory Care at TerraBella Southport
At our assisted living community, we offer Memory Care programs for your loved ones with Alzheimer’s. We want our residents to live a fulfilling and enriching life with us while getting the best quality memory care they need. You can rest easy knowing your loved ones are safe with us. To learn more, contact us today!
