Dementia is a scary diagnosis; however, it does not have to be a dark and mysterious power that haunts your loved one’s every move. After a dementia diagnosis, there is still enough joy to be discovered. Having the proper medical knowledge can assist you or a loved one make plans, choose between different dementia or Alzheimer’s care options, and pursue the best treatment possible.
Here is a list of the top five questions families should ask when a senior loved one is diagnosed with dementia.
Is it Alzheimer’s or a different form of dementia?
There are numerous different forms of cognitive decline that people might suffer from. Dementia is an umbrella word. It’s essential to figure out which form of dementia you have. Is it dementia with Lewy Bodies? Is it vascular? Is it a case of frontotemporal dementia? Is it a case of mixed dementia? Is this a case of Alzheimer’s?
All dementias impair the brain and cognitive function, although certain dementias are more severe than others. Each form of dementia has a unique course. Because some people accelerate more quickly than others and have distinct presenting symptoms, it’s critical to acquire a proper dementia diagnosis.
What can be expected as dementia progresses?
Each person with dementia will experience the condition and the effects thereof differently. Dementia usually progresses in phases, with symptoms becoming more visible and disruptive to daily routines and cognitive processes. To better understand what to expect with your parent’s form of dementia, inquire about typical symptoms. This will help you emotionally prepare and plan for your loved one’s care.
This should be a continuous conversation throughout the caregiver’s journey. Caregivers must understand what behaviours they may expect their loved one to display next. This can be crucial psychologically, emotionally, and physically preparing the carer for the next stage of the disease. It’s also essential to keep talking about how the condition is progressing so that any unforeseen, manageable consequences aren’t overlooked.
Dementia can be difficult for elders to manage, but with the aid of professional carers, they can retain a greater quality of life. Livewell Estates offers dementia and Alzheimer’s care options that are personalised to our residents.
What do I need to know about caregiving?
It’s common advice to keep everyday routines as familiar as possible at first. It’s also critical to urge your loved one to stay self-sufficient while providing required assistance with certain activities to ensure their comfort and safety. Dementia-related care may also include the following:
- Discussing your parent’s care choices with them while he or she is still capable of doing so.
- Making necessary house changes to ensure your safety
- Consider hiring in-home help when your care demands become too time-consuming or demanding.
Caring for someone with dementia is a demanding job that needs a long-term commitment. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, so you’ll need to look for yourself. Seek assistance from relatives and friends. Make self-care a priority and accept help when it comes along. Seek treatment from a doctor or therapist if you’re experiencing symptoms of caregiver depression or anxiety. These are curable diseases, and obtaining the appropriate assistance can help you maintain the energy required for caregiving. Caring for a senior loved one can be difficult for families who lack experience or professional training in-home care, but you don’t have to tackle this task alone.
How can the progression of dementia be slowed or managed?
Medication is frequently recommended to help halt the changes in the brain that cause dementia-related symptoms. However, cognitive treatments, constant mental stimulation, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and memory-stimulating hobbies are all beneficial to some seniors with dementia. A dementia-trained professional caregiver may be a wonderful source of support for you and your loved one.
Being diagnosed with dementia might make it more difficult for elders to age in place securely and comfortably, but Livewell residents have 24/7 access to caregivers to assist them. From our own nursing staff to our specialised support network of healthcare experts, our multidisciplinary healthcare team contributes to our residents’ holistic and comprehensive care. At each of our customised dementia care facilities, this staff offers their whole dedication and undivided attention to each resident in order to provide flexible tailored dementia care based on their individual care requirements.
Does my loved one understand what’s going on?
According to Alzheimers.net, nearly half of all dementia patients are unaware that their cognitive abilities have deteriorated. However, the exact answer to this question will be determined when your parents are diagnosed and how far the disease has progressed. Some seniors with dementia recognise their diagnosis first, but as the disease advances, they become less aware of it.
What are my Alzheimer’s care options?
Livewell is one such Alzheimer’s care option that can provide specialised dementia care for your loved one while also taking you into account. Livewell has exceptional Alzheimer’s and dementia care staff who provide a safe, comfortable environment for your loved one.
Livewell can offer specialised dementia care and provides a service tailored to you and your partner’s needs. Livewell also allows spouses to live at their facility if their loved one is a resident. They will then be transferred to a couples suite. Taking care of your loved one may be a difficult task on your own, but you don’t have to do it on your own. There are Alzheimer’s care options out there, and it’s up to you to take the next step to get your spouse the support structure they need.
These are just some of the questions you should ask when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia. It’s important to remember, you don’t have to go through it alone, and help is always at hand. Dementia and Alzheimer’s care options are plentiful, and by choosing to put your loved one in live-in care, you get the peace of mind that they’ll be attended to in a safe and secure environment.