Transportation Solutions for Caregivers: A Starting Point
Preventing Agitation
While empathizing with your loved one fosters good communication, it also can prevent agitation. The following are some tips to help reduce agitation:
- Encourage reminiscence. Recognize that repetition can suggest important feelings about certain topics and, ask about the feelings behind the memories. Sharing memories can be a rewarding experience for both you and your loved one.
- Try to be patient and not rush your loved one. He may not understand what is happening and could become agitated. Be mindful that body language often speaks louder than words and that he will likely respond to your body language.
- When you are going to a new place with your loved one for the first time, try to call ahead and find out which entrance to use. This way you can avoid getting in and out of the car multiple times.
- The environment of the vehicle can be a cause of agitation, especially if the person whom you are transporting cannot communicate discomfort. Assess the temperature, keep the vehicle clutter-free and try to reduce glare on bright days.
- Be prepared with relaxing music, sunglasses, photos or food in case they are needed during the ride.
- Suggest that your loved one use the bathroom before each trip. Having to use the bathroom during transport can cause agitation -- especially if your loved one cannot express this verbally.
- Avoid arguing with your loved one whenever possible. It is often less frustrating to try to go along with what he believes than trying to convince him of what is really happening.
- When communicating with an older adult with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia, it is important to stay calm. Your loved one’s behavior is often a reflection of your own.
- Speak clearly in a calm and respectful tone of voice.
- Make eye contact whenever possible.
- Give brief, clear directions (step by step if necessary) to avoid confusion. This may need to be approached in different ways until you find what works best.
- Show your loved one what you would like him to do.
- Avoid asking the questions, “Do you understand?” and “Don’t you remember?” Such questions can be frustrating and embarrassing to your loved one. |
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