Dementia is a complex and often emotionally challenging condition that affects not only the person diagnosed with dementia, but also their loved ones and caregivers.  Every day can bring new uncertainties and struggles, and dementia coaching is emerging as a powerful resource, offering guidance, support, and a path towards a better quality of life.

What Is Dementia Coaching?

Dementia coaching is a specialized form of support tailored to the unique needs of individuals living with dementia, their caregivers and loved ones.  This is a service provided by an experienced professional and it brings practical assistance and emotional guidance, focusing on the well-being and quality of life for both the person with dementia and their supporters.  While you can easily research dementia online through many resources and receive general information, coaching allows a personalized, one-on-one approach that takes every individual detail into account.

The Role of a Dementia Coach

A dementia coach is a professional who is experienced in dementia care, and they possess excellent coaching techniques.  Their role is to become a care partner who helps individuals, and their loved ones navigate the ever-changing journey of dementia.  Here’s how they can help:

1. Education:  Coaches educate clients about dementia, the symptoms exhibited, the progression, what to expect, and how to best respond to challenges.  Sharing this knowledge empowers the caregiver and reduces anxiety.
2.  Communication Skills:  They teach caregivers effective communication strategies, which result in a better outcome.  Coaches will guide clients in responses to avoid which could negatively impact the person with dementia.
3.  Behavior Management:  During times of challenging behaviors, they will teach clients how to respond, considering body language, tone of voice, and overall approach.  These techniques allow the caregiver to feel less intimidated.
4. Emotional Support:  They offer a compassionate ear, and they understand that dementia can be emotionally draining.  Dementia Coaches are a wonderful sounding board and support system.
5. Quality of Life Enhancement:  Their ultimate goal is to provide strategies and support to improve the overall quality of life for both the person living with dementia and their loved ones.  They help create days of success.

Benefits of Dementia Coaching

1.  Empowerment:  Dementia coaches help the caregiver and client take control of the current situation by providing effective strategies and problem-solving techniques.
2.  Reducing Stress:  They realize that caregivers experience a high level of stress and coaching provides coping strategies and a support system.
3.  Personalized Care:  Dementia is not a one-size fits all and dementia coaches create customized dementia care solutions.
4.  Improved Communication:  They bridge the communication gap that can develop between the client and their loved ones as the dementia journey progresses.
5.  Enhanced Well-Being:  Clients and their caregivers will become better equipped to navigate the changes, reducing stress for both; achieving a meaningful life.

Hiring the Right Dementia Coach:

It’s crucial to be sure you select a qualified coach who is compatible and can provide the support you need.  Consider these tips:

1. Experience:  Search for coaches who have at least 5 years of experience providing dementia coaching services.  Dementia is complex and it takes times to learn all of the intricacies and develop a solid foundation of education.
2. Credentials:  Ensure that the coach has a healthcare background and certification in dementia care.  If the person with dementia has medical diagnoses in addition to dementia, you will want someone with a medical background (registered nurse, nurse practitioner, physician etc.).  Medical conditions can directly affect symptoms for someone with dementia.  The coach should be a Certified Dementia Practitioner.
3. Compatibility:  You will want a dementia coach who has the same goals as the client and their loved ones.  Choose someone that you feel comfortable with and connected to.  It’s okay to talk to more than one to find the best fit.
4. References:  Ask for client testimonials to gauge the coach’s effectiveness in creating dementia care solutions.  Read their Google reviews and ask them to share a dementia care success story with you.

Conclusion

Dementia coaching offers hope to individuals with dementia and their support system.  It offers education, compassion and support during the dementia journey, which can often times be challenging.  By understanding the services offered by a dementia coach and finding the perfect coach for your situation, you can embark on a path towards improved well-being and overall improvement in quality of life.  Learn more about Wellness Strategies Group’s dementia care solutions here.