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Now we must correct them or guide them in the right direction. It feels awkward. We feel like a nag. We get frustrated and tired. You are now in a caregiver’s world. We empathize.
This forum is a great place to vent. If you care to share more we are here to listen and make possible suggestions.
Best wishes to you.
My husband (DH) has post-stroke cognitive deficits - which fluctuate. He is capable of a certain amount of learning and retention - BUT - his judgment sometimes goes astray, and he'll do things that endanger him.
My own go-to is to tell him, "Don't wreck yourself! We need to get you better, so that you CAN do (whatever it is) in the future!"
PLEASE NOTE: This is intended for a situation where a loved one *may* improve over time. With dementia, things will *not* improve.
One possible approach is to suggest to her that you can show her an alternative or safer way, begin helping her, then gently back off if she eventually learns the new method. If dementia isn't involved, this is a good alternative approach, complimented by reinforcements.
Then reward her with something she likes, healthy food, or just coffee, tea, hot cider. Or bring out some flowers that you've already bought for her. Play her favorite music. Reward her, and creating bonding at a subconscious level.
I don't know what types of actions your mother's taking that bother you; perhaps you could share that so responses can be more on point. Specifically, have there been any diagnoses of dementia?
Whatever you do, any kind of corporal punishment or slapping is in my opinion totally out of line.