COVID19: 5 Steps to help people living with dementia.

Step 1.

Hands should be washed often and well with soap and water or by using hand sanitiser. Items that are handled a lot such as phones, remote controls and taps should be regularly sanitised. Prevention is better than cure, so ensure that anyone coming in or out of the property understands and goes through the correct and appropriate processes.

Step 2.

Speak to your GP or local pharmacy to arrange delivery of medicines. For food supplies use online shopping where possible. Vulnerable people are eligible for priority bookings so be sure to register that fact with the Government. Ask family members, friends or a community volunteer for help.

Step 3.

Put arrangements or a plan in place should you or the person you care for become unwell.

Make sure emergency numbers are prominently displayed. Consider getting a mandate to help with/ take over banking. Pack an overnight bag with essentials in case of hospitalisation. And for belt and braces, fill out the Alzheimer’s Society This Is Me form just in case it's needed at any point.

Step 4.

Stay mentally and physically active with gentle exercises for both mind and body. Read. Sing. Paint. Play board games. Tell jokes. Reminisce.

To help stay physically fit, movement and flexibility are key, so any simple arm, hip or leg stretching exercises will all be valuable. If you are able to access them, there are plenty of videos online that will have programmes you can follow. 

Step 5.

Stay connected with family and friends in any way you can.  Email. Skype. Write a letter (which also helps with Step4). Pick up the phone. Consider regular times for phone calls to help create a routine.