Caring for someone with dementia presents unique challenges that can feel overwhelming. Taylor Rush, PhD, is the Director of Behavioral Services and Interdisciplinary Programs in the Center for Neurological Restoration at Cleveland Clinic. Here, she shares practical tips for families navigating this journey.
Read the interview with Dr. Rush below.
WAM: What are the top 5 changes a caregiver can make to create a safer home for someone living with dementia?
Dr. Rush: Creating a safe home begins with anticipating challenges people may experience daily.
- Clear the home environment. Reduce clutter and remove trip hazards such as loose rugs and cords.
- Improve lighting. Ensure hallways and bathrooms are well-lit, especially at night.
- Secure hazards. Lock up medications, cleaning supplies, and sharp objects.
- Use clear cues. Label drawers, doors, or rooms with words or pictures to support orientation.
- Plan for possible elopement. Consider using door alarms or wearable identification in case a loved one becomes disoriented and leaves the home.
WAM: We sometimes hear from caregivers whose loved ones are afraid or refuse to go to the doctor. What strategies would you suggest to ease the experience of going to appointments?
Dr. Rush: Fear and resistance often come from confusion or feeling out of control, especially in unfamiliar environments. Consider these ideas:
- Prepare in advance. Explain what will happen in simple, reassuring language.
- Keep it calm and routine. Schedule visits at times of day when your loved one is most relaxed.
- Bring comfort items. A familiar object or snack can reduce anxiety.
- Involve the care team. Let providers know about the fear beforehand so they can adjust their approach.
- Offer reassurance, not correction. Gentle validation (“I know this is hard, but we’ll do it together”) goes much further than directives.
WAM: What’s the best way to handle a situation in which someone with dementia doesn’t remember or misidentifies a loved one?
Dr. Rush: It can be very painful when this happens, but remember, it’s the illness, not the relationship, causing the confusion.
- Stay calm and kind. Correcting or arguing can intensify the situation.
- Enter their reality. If your loved one believes you’re someone else, respond in a way that maintains trust and comfort.
- Redirect with warmth. Shift the focus to a shared activity or memory that feels familiar and soothing.
- Seek support. Talking about these moments with a counselor or support group can ease the emotional toll.
WAM: What are your top self-care tips for caregivers?
Dr. Rush: Caregivers often put their own needs last, but small, consistent steps can help protect your well-being:
- Rest when you can and recognize even short breaks matter.
- Stay connected to your social support. Isolation increases stress- we are social creatures and need contact with those who care.
- Move your body daily. Physical activity is one of the best mood elevators and helps to maintain overall health.
- Ask for help early. You don’t have to wait until you’re exhausted- you will benefit from support much more before you reach that point.
- Practice compassion for yourself. Guilt and perfectionism can feed unrealistic expectations. Remember, progress, not perfection, is the goal.
WAM: What are the most helpful things we can do to support our friends and family members who are caregivers?
Dr. Rush: Caregivers often don’t ask for help, so proactive support can demonstrate their needs matter.
- Offer something specific. Instead of “Let me know if you need anything,” try “Can I bring dinner Thursday or stay with your loved one while you rest?”
- Check in regularly. A simple text or call to say “I’m thinking of you” goes a long way.
- Verbally acknowledge and value their role. Caregiving deserves profound respect. It is both an act of love and immense responsibility.
- Encourage restorative breaks and enjoyable activities. Remind them that their health and joy matter, too!