How to Support Members with Certain Conditions
Learn how to best interact with members who are suffering from certain common conditions.
Some Papa members have certain conditions that may require specific management techniques to best support. Below are some of the conditions that a Papa member may have and tips on how you can interact with these members to make the experience as positive as possible.
With Dementia
- Be Patient: Members with dementia may have difficulty communicating their needs and their behavior may change quickly. Allow enough time for both you and the member to respond and be adaptive to changing circumstances.
- Use Simple, Clear Language and Instructions: Avoid using complex sentences or abstract concepts, and repeat important information if needed.
- Create a Calming Environment: Members with dementia can become easily overwhelmed. Reduce noise and distractions and use calm music when possible.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Praising and rewarding positive actions can be an effective way to encourage and reinforce desired behavior.
- Avoid Correcting or Arguing: Instead, consider redirecting their attention or providing positive feedback.
With Alzheimers
- Encourage Routine: Members with Alzheimer’s can benefit from a consistent routine and schedule for daily activities such as meals, exercise, and rest.
- Use Visual Aids: Pictures, signs, or symbols can help members with Alzheimer's understand instructions and remember important information.
- Create a Safe Environment: Members with Alzheimer’s may be prone to accidents or wandering. Ensure that their environment is safe by removing hazards.
- Engage in Activities: Engage them in activities that they enjoy and are capable of doing. This can help maintain their sense of purpose and reduce anxiety.
With Depression
- Encourage Socialization: Social isolation can contribute to depression, so encourage the member to engage in social activities and maintain social connections with friends and family.
- Focus on Their Interests: Engage them in activities that they enjoy and are capable of doing. This can help boost their mood and sense of purpose.
- Encourage Physical Activity: Physical activity can help boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Encourage the member to engage in gentle exercises or activities that they enjoy, such as walking or gardening.
- Monitor Their Condition: Keep an eye on the member’s mood and behavior, and report any changes or concerns on the feedback screen at the end of your visit.
Who Hoard
- Approach the Situation with Empathy: Hoarding can be a symptom of an underlying mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, or OCD. Approach the situation with empathy and understanding, and avoid being judgmental or critical.
- Offer Practical Support: Offer to help with decluttering and organizing their home. This can be a difficult and overwhelming task, so be patient and supportive throughout the process.
- Set Clear Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries and expectations for behavior. This can include setting limits on clutter or discussing expectations for hygiene and cleanliness.
- Celebrate Small Successes: Recognize and celebrate small successes and milestones, such as cleaning out a single room or reducing clutter in a specific area.
Remember, no matter what a member may be facing, we're all people in need of companionship, compassion, and support.