Caring for someone with dementia isn’t often easy and doesn’t come naturally to most people. Here is some practical advice from experienced carers.
Don’t get drawn in and angry with someone with dementia, trying to get them to see things differently or challenge them.
Dementia changes brain function, arguing will increase frustration for both of you.
In the early stages, many people hope that the symptoms will go away and may ignore them.
Being in denial about the problem may help you in the short term, but it delays the diagnosis of other conditions that look like dementia but are treatable, as well as delay diagnosis and treatment of true dementia.
Medications can delay early progression.
Review all medication that someone is taking as dementia may affect how they interact with the body. Sometimes certain prescriptions may not be required anymore.
Even vitamins/supplements can affect how medications work.
Too many drugs can make someone disorientated and confused.
People living with dementia often experience a different reality than we do. They may call out repeatedly for people that are no longer with us or insist that they have to go to work.
Instead of being irritated and reminding your loved one of what is true, talk to them about the past.
Try to see things their way.
After a diagnosis of dementia it’s not too late to help.
There are a lot of strategies that can be used to maintain and even improve brain health and function.
Physical exercise, mental activity, and meaningful activities help maintain function and provide purpose in daily life.
You maybe exhausted and feel like your fatigue doesn’t matter, try to do one small thing for yourself.
Try to find out about home healthcare services, adult day care facilities, respite care, and support.
Knowing you are not alone can be very reassuring.
Don’t avoid the conversation about medical decisions and power of attorney, take time to discuss these important choices.
Talk with your loved one sooner rather than later.
You may think that a loved one is being stubborn, rather than the fact that they have dementia. You may then feel they’re choosing to dig their heels in and just being difficult.
Dementia can affect personality, behaviour, decision-making, and judgment.
‘What I Wish I Knew About Dementia’ by Wendy Mitchell gives first-hand advice and anecdotes about her experiences, and how it has affected her loved ones. Rather than focusing on the biology and clinical scenarios, her focus is on the many things that you can still do after a dementia diagnosis.
No single test can determine if your loved one has dementia. A doctor will examine several factors to come up with a diagnosis, including a full medical history, physical exam, blood tests, and recognizing a pattern of loss of function and skills.
With a high level of certainty, doctors can diagnose a person with dementia, but it’s more challenging to define the exact type of dementia.
At TrustonTap, we realise how difficult changes to your loved one can be.
Whatever support you need, we’re here to help. Give us a call on 0808 278 1112