Resource Guide: Understanding COVID-19 and Dementia Care

Understanding COVID-19 and Dementia Care: A Resource Guide

by Corey Bliss

With the holidays now just around the corner, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our daily lives is more deeply felt than ever. Families of those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) face a special set of challenges, as COVID-19 protocols like mask-wearing and hand-washing can cause confusion and resistance in people with ADRD. This can lead to an increase in dementia-related behaviors, which can in turn put them at a higher risk of contracting the virus. For example, if a woman with vascular dementia habitually forgets or refuses to wash her hands, she is at a greater risk, especially over time. 

“While there is no clinical correlation between Alzheimer's disease and a risk of COVID-19 infection, people with Alzheimer's disease may be at higher risk because the prevention protocols are more difficult for them to remember and understand.”  explains Greg Drapkin, Care & Support Manager at the Alzheimer’s Association, NYC Chapter.  

Here are a few helpful tips for loved ones and caregivers to encourage individuals with ADRD to comply with COVID-19 protocols: 

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  • To encourage hand-washing, play 20 seconds of their favorite song, and demonstrate by washing your own hands. 

  • To encourage mask-wearing, first acknowledge their feelings (“I know this is uncomfortable for you”), and mention an authority figure like a physician (or even a favorite TV anchor) who they respond well to (“Dr. Smith said that wearing a mask is important for your health and well-being.”). 

  • Wear a mask with a clear window over the mouth to help make verbal cues easier to understand (and share a smile!). This can also help to reduce confusion if the person is struggling to recognize their loved ones when they are wearing masks. There are several affordable options on Etsy

While it’s important to take steps to mitigate the risks to older adults as much as possible, it’s equally important to understand that it is not possible to completely eliminate those risks. Families and professional caregivers have to strike a balance between the risks of COVID-19, and the effects of isolation and loneliness. “It’s a deeply personal decision of what outweighs what,” Drapkin says. “For instance, someone may say, ‘I know my loved one will get more out of a 1-on-1 interaction, so I’ll do what I can as safely as possible.’ That human connection is so important for everyone, but especially for those living with ADRD.”  

Fortunately, there is no shortage of resources to guide families through the holiday season and beyond. We’ve rounded up a helpful list from our partners on a myriad of topics, including holiday preparations, NYC resources, and caregiver support: 

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  • CaringKind: The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving shares great suggestions for virtual activities for people with ADRD, along with a list of important city resources. 

  • The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America has a wide selection of in-depth articles on a range of topics, including reducing caregiver stress and connecting with loved ones in long-term care facilities.  

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and healthy Thanksgiving! 

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