The Four R’s of Dementia Care, A Guide for Families - Dementia care at home for family caregivers

Caring for a loved one with dementia can feel overwhelming.At APlus Homecare Services, we believe support begins with understanding and one of the best ways to understand dementia care is through a simple but powerful framework:

The Four R’s Reassure, Routine, Reminisce, Redirect.

These four words can guide your daily care, help you respond with compassion, and protect the dignity of your loved one through every stage of their journey.

✅ 1. Reassure “Dementia care at home for family caregivers”

What it means: Offer emotional comfort instead of correction.Dementia often brings confusion, fear, and frustration. A gentle, “I’m here with you” or “You’re safe” can do more good than trying to explain what’s “really happening.” Reassurance reduces distress and restores a sense of calm.

✅ 2. Routine

What it means: Keep daily life predictable.Consistent meal times, sleep schedules, and activities help reduce anxiety and make the day easier to navigate. Even small things — like brushing teeth or going for a walk at the same time each day — create a sense of control. “Dementia care at home for family caregivers”

✅ 3. Reminisce - Dementia care at home for family caregivers

What it means: Lean into long-term memory.Pull out old photos, play familiar music, talk about past holidays or childhood memories. Reminiscing connects your loved one to who they were — and still are. It brings joy, triggers conversation, and helps reduce feelings of isolation.

✅ 4. Redirect - Dementia care at home for family caregivers

What it means: Gently shift attention away from distress.When your loved one becomes upset, confused, or fixated on something — instead of correcting or saying “That’s not right,” try offering something soothing:

“Let’s go look at your garden,” or“Would you like to listen to some music?”Redirection helps de-escalate while respecting their reality.

💡 Why It Matters

These four R’s don’t require medical training just heart, consistency, and patience. They create a care environment that’s safer, more loving, and more empowering.

But remember: You don’t have to do it alone.

💕 How APlus Can Help

Our trained Personal Support Workers (PSWs) use these same principles when working with families every day. We don’t just assist we connect, comfort, and care with compassion.

Whether your loved one is newly diagnosed or in the later stages of dementia, APlus Homecare can provide the support you need.

📞 Call us today at 416-435-9000

📧 Email: info@aplusmed.ca

APlus Homecare Services – Right staff, right now.