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Hello,

I have a question for anyone who finds themselves in situations where they have to help a loved one who has dementia with their daily personal care ? Is this a challenge for you?

If so, are there any particular processes or special toothbrushes etc that can help make the job easier?

Any words of advice would really help

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hello , thank you for the advice !
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Teepa Snow has an excellent video on YouTube about helping people with dementia brush their teeth. The way she demonstrates her methods are amazing
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OOps didnot get a good sleep... sorry for typos! I actually do know how to spell actually and reach! lol
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It's a good question. many with dementia won't remember to brush teeth, setting them up for infection. It was obvious when my mother in law would have the same toothpaste/ deodorant etc for months. I had to finally tell the caregiver to make sure she brushed. MIL will say she will brush but I have to acyually place toothpaste on brush on the counter to encourage her to do so.
If you have to brush someone's teeth for them you can use a soft toothbrush. If they are able to rinse you can use sm amount of toothpaste. You can use an emesis basin, or even a disposable cup to have them spit into if they can't rach sink. If not able to rinse you can use a spongy like applicator with a small amount of mouthwash. Not fun but necessary!
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I have a patient with dementia and she refuses to use toothpaste or water. She just wants the toothbrush. I've set her up with the toothpaste on the brush but she wouldn't use it. She brushes her teeth but without toothpaste and water. I tried and tried to get her to do it the "right way" but it was a losing battle so I just gave up and now she brushes her teeth with the brush only. I guess it's better than nothing. We do what we can do.
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