How to Care for Aging Parents with Alzheimer's or Dementia

Caring for aging parents is a sacred duty in Indian culture. However, when your parents are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, the journey becomes more complex and emotionally intense. These progressive brain disorders affect memory, reasoning, behaviour, and daily functioning — making everyday life a challenge for both the patient and the caregiver.

India is home to an estimated 8.8 million people living with dementia (as per the Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of India), and this number is rapidly growing. With limited awareness and fewer support systems in place, many Indian families find themselves overwhelmed when faced with such a diagnosis.

In this guide, we will walk you through practical steps to provide effective, compassionate care to aging parents with Alzheimer’s or dementia, while also protecting your own well-being.

Understand the Disease

The first and most crucial step is to educate yourself about the type of dementia your parent is facing:

• Alzheimer’s disease – gradual memory loss and cognitive decline
• Vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia are other types

Learn about the stages, symptoms, and how the disease progresses. Refer to organisations like ARDSI (Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of India) for India-specific information.

Create a Safe Environment at Home

• Install grab bars in the bathroom
• Keep stairways and corridors well-lit
• Lock cabinets with harmful items
• Use labels or signs for common items and rooms
• Consider a GPS tracker for wandering risks

A safe and clutter-free environment reduces confusion and enhances comfort.

Build a Routine

People with dementia feel more secure with predictable routines. Schedule meals, hygiene activities, medication, and rest at consistent times. Include calming activities like bhajan listening, gardening, or viewing photo albums.

Improve Communication Skills

• Speak slowly, clearly, and in short sentences
• Use gestures and visual cues
• Maintain eye contact and a calm tone
• Don’t argue or contradict; gently redirect the conversation

Communication should focus more on understanding than correcting.

Focus on Nutrition and Health

Offer smaller, nutritious meals:

• Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Dal, paneer, eggs, and nuts
• Brain-boosting items like turmeric and omega-3s

Ensure medications are taken regularly and side effects are monitored.

Manage Behavioural Changes

Aggression, confusion, and wandering are common. Handle them by:

• Staying calm and composed
• Identifying triggers and removing them
• Using soft music or distraction techniques

Seek Professional Help When Needed

Utilise available resources in India:

• Geriatric specialists and neurologists
• Home nursing services
• Adult daycare centres
• Hospice and palliative care for later stages

Take Care of Your Mental Health

Caregiver burnout is real. Take care of yourself by:

• Joining caregiver support groups
• Sharing duties with family
• Practicing yoga or meditation
• Opting for respite care when needed

Plan Financially and Legally

• Create a monthly care budget
• Explore health insurance options
• Update legal documents like Will, Power of Attorney, and Advance Directives

Get legal and financial advice early to avoid complications later.

Raise Awareness and Build Community Support

Dementia is still misunderstood in India. Help raise awareness by:

• Educating family members
• Participating in World Alzheimer’s Day (21st September)
• Connecting with NGOs like ARDSI

Final Thoughts

Caring for aging parents with Alzheimer’s or dementia is challenging, but it can also be rewarding. In India, where family ties are strong, being a caregiver is an act of deep love and commitment. With knowledge, support, and compassion, you can help your parent live a dignified and peaceful life — and find strength and meaning in your role.