More often than not, elderly persons are at risk for health problems, such as osteoarthritis and bone fractures. The nature of their bones is often to blame for these issues.
Senior citizens with either dementia or Alzheimer’s are particularly at risk for injuries, such as hip fractures, which can lead to hip replacements. Of the hip fracture patients aged 68 and older, 85% of them admitted to a hospital also had dementia.
It can be challenging to care for someone with dementia who has had a recent hip replacement. There are complications to be aware of and other strategies to keep in mind while helping these patients through the recovery process.
Complications
Dementia patients often have a difficult time communicating their symptoms or pain. Their caregivers must be especially mindful of any changes in their patient’s mood or behavior. This can include irritability or increased confusion.
Some Helpful Tips
To ensure the safety of their patients, caregivers must first clear the main living area of any potential hazards that could harm their patient. This includes items like rugs, poor lighting, power cords, and any other objects on the floor that could cause a stumble or fall.
Besides providing a safe living space, caretakers will need to assist and supervise patients with their daily activities. Caretakers must often find an alternate form of communication for patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s. The caretaker may have to use a combination of auditory, visual and manual signs to help their patient safely sit, lie down or even to make basic movements.
Caretakers should use an encouraging and gentle voice when communicating with their patients. Be firm and use simple, one or two-word verbal cues. These commands and gestures that the caretaker establishes should be used frequently in order to establish a repeated behavior pattern.
