Working with dementia patients can be difficult at times, but also very rewarding. It’s important to be sensitive to their unique needs and to be patient. Changes can happen quickly, and a patient that you may have been able to communicate effectively with yesterday could become challenging tomorrow. As a healthcare provider, you may be working closely with the patient’s family to coordinate care. One of the keys is to focus on helping the patient feel comfortable in their environment. Nurses can assist patients in getting physical exercise, maintaining good nutrition, and drinking plenty of fluids. While dementia patients come with unique challenges, nurses can also play a critical role in providing compassionate care for these individuals.
