Dementia can affect any family, no matter how healthy or happy they seem. When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it often feels like a rollercoaster of emotions for the whole family. While you may never fully understand the challenges your friend is facing, your support can make a significant difference. If your best friend’s mother or father has been diagnosed with dementia, here are several meaningful ways you can offer your support and care during this difficult time.
Be a shoulder to cry on
Sometimes the best thing you can offer is your presence. Let your friend know that they can always count on you for emotional support, whether they need someone to listen, vent, or just be there with them. Caring for someone with dementia can be draining, so being a reliable friend can ease some of their emotional burden.
Remember special dates
One of the most common symptoms of dementia is memory loss and those living with dementia will often forget their loved one’s birthdays, wedding anniversaries and other important milestones. As a friend, you can you can help by remembering these dates for them. Send a thoughtful card, flowers, or even a small gift to acknowledge the special days that might otherwise go unnoticed. Your friend will appreciate your thoughtfulness and support, especially when their loved one with dementia can no longer recall these moments.
Offer your help
Caring for someone living with dementia is extremely hard work and very often the caregivers are completely selfless and seldom ask for help. Offer your support and help to your friend by bringing them a home-cooked meal, helping to do the laundry or simply relieving them of their duty by watching over their loved one with dementia whilst they take a nap. They may feel hesitant to ask for help, but offering practical support can be a game-changer.
Attend support groups
When it comes to dementia, education is extremely important. Joining a local dementia support group will help you ask questions in a safe and non-judgemental environment. Being around people who are experiencing the same thing will better equip you with the knowledge, tools and resources to help your friend. From time ti time, Livewell Estates hosts dementia support groups in areas around Cape Town and Johannesburg – visit our information on support groups for more details.
Be understanding and non-judgmental
It’s common for people caring for a loved one with dementia to feel embarrassed or overwhelmed, and they may not always feel comfortable discussing their situation. Let your friend know that you’re there for them, but avoid being pushy or intrusive. Be patient as they open up on their own terms. Let them know that you are there for them without being forceful or intrusive. Remember to not take it personally when your friend won’t open up about their family member’s dementia diagnosis.
Do you need more information about specialised dementia care at Livewell?
At Livewell, we pride ourselves on providing specialised dementia and Alzheimer’s care services to our residents. Our multidisciplinary healthcare team, whom all contributes to the holistic care of our dementia care residents, ranging from our own nursing team (employed and trained nursing and care workers), to our specialised support network of healthcare professionals (such as nutritionists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, geriatricians, physicians, psychologists, social workers and more). This team gives their highest commitment and the utmost attention to each resident to provide adaptable personalised dementia care based on their unique memory care needs.
Our services include:
- 24/7 specialised dementia care
- Permanent residence
- Couples residence
- Frail care
- 3 nutritious meals including snacks
- Personalised care and medication management
- Occupational therapy
- Ongoing Care Plan (assessments and evaluations)
- Stimulating activities program
- Salon and personal grooming services are available
- Housekeeping and laundry services (unlimited)
- Access to communal gardens, dining and living areas
- Pet care