tips - encouraging client with dementia?

[IHeartPeds87]

Hi! I was wondering if anyone had any tips for encouraging a client with dementia to participate in senior home activities, or just general motivation. I am having a hard time encouraging a client.....this client is pleasant but it is a struggle to get the client to do much of anything. I have recently tweaked my approach while talking to the client (for example I used to say "Would you like to wake up now, or would you like to eat now" and instead I say "it's time to wake up now, and its time to eat now.") When I used to phrase it as a question i'd get a no. Things are better then they were, in terms of basic tasks like waking up and eating but I am having a hard time getting the client to engage in any sort of activity. I'd like to play cards or take a walk or participate in one of the classes at the center with the client, but the client won't have it. Tips?

[CoffeemateCNA]

As for activities, try to find out why he/she doesn't want to participate. There may be something you can do to fix it.

Are they worried about having an incontinence episode in front of other people/residents? Ensure them that they will be toileted beforehand, and maybe you can work out a secret signal between the two of you to let you know they need to go to the bathroom while minimizing embarrassment.

Are they anxious about their physical appearance? I've seen some people not want to leave their room because they said they were "ugly" from hair loss or wrinkles. Making sure hair is as nice as possible, clothes are neat (and not covered in food), and offering hats and encouragement are all appropriate.

Do they not like the activities that are being done? Maybe you can find out what they like and set up a small group to do them, or suggest them to the activities director.

Are they embarrassed about uncontrollable drooling? Keep a HANKERCHIEF or something nearby to keep their face wiped. Putting clothing protectors on just adds to their "embarrassment" in front of their friends.

Are they always around the same group of people? Perhaps they doesn't like some of them and would do better with activities with new people.

Then again, some people were just never social to begin with. They were never ones for going out with friends or inviting people over. They typically don't change those patterns later in life, either.