Coping with dementia is never easy and each person deals with their diagnosis differently.
You’re probably experiencing a wide range of emotions such as fear, anger, frustration, or hopelessness – and that’s okay.
Yes, you and your loved ones will experience a new set of challenges and that can be frightening to say the least, but you can prepare yourself for these challenges and manage them by taking a proactive approach.
Early Symptoms of Dementia or Alzheimer’s
Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a set of symptoms caused by a variety of memory loss conditions. Alzheimer’s is only one condition that can cause dementia. Still, the early symptoms of dementia usually remain the same across the board.
By educating yourself on these early symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia, you can take a proactive approach to ensure the safety and wellbeing of you and your loved ones.
- Difficulty Communicating Thoughts
- Mental Health or Personality Changes
- Frequent Short-term Memory Loss
- Trouble Completing Familiar Tasks
- Aversion to Change
- Repetitive Behaviors
- General Confusion
- Trouble Following Plots in Movie or TV shows
Dealing with a Dementia Diagnosis
Dementia is a life changing diagnosis – it’s okay to be angry or upset. If you or a loved one are dealing with a dementia diagnosis, you probably have many questions and concerns.
The best thing you can do is educate yourself about the condition and set up a support system to help manage your symptoms.
Every person is unique, so you should always listen to your instinct and do what’s best for your personal situation. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Write everything down. Start a log book for finances, daily activities, and appointments.
- Join a support group.
- Keep up with regular doctor visits and medications.
- Only continue activities you enjoy but try to avoid isolating yourself completely.
- Stick to a brain healthy diet and avoid alcohol.
- Organize your home so important items are easy to find. Have a specific place for everything.
- Discuss alternative work options with your employer.
- Plan ahead. Decide what you will do if you cannot live independently down the road.
Coping with Dementia in Parents or Loved Ones
Coping with dementia in parents or loved one poses a whole new set of challenges. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. Keep some things in mind to ensure you and your loved one’s safety and comfort:
- Be patient. A person suffering from dementia is already feeling frustrated and fearful. Always be patient, respectful, and reassuring of their feelings.
- State things clearly and purposefully. Be ready to repeat yourself as needed.
- If you don’t live with them, call and check-in often.
- Be a good listener. Take their concerns and questions seriously.
- Stay flexible. Their symptoms and condition might change over time.
- Avoid triggering behaviors that could make your loved one agitated or confused.
- Know when you’ve reached your limit. Ask others for help when you need it.
If you’re coping with dementia in parents or a loved one, you’ll need to handle symptoms as they arise.
Everyone is different.
You can’t change their behavior, but you can change how you respond to it.
Remember, they aren’t in control of their symptoms. It’s important to stay respectful and supportive – everyone wants to be as independent as possible.
Wandering
People with dementia wander for many reasons and this can be one of the more frightening symptoms. Often, people will get up for a snack or glass of water and begin walking aimlessly.
Talk to neighbors so they’re aware of the sufferer’s behavior. Encourage exercise to avoid restlessness. You could also consider installing a home monitoring system or make sure your loved one wears an ID bracelet.
Paranoia
When a loved one becomes paranoid, most people’s first instinct is to defend themselves. This should be avoided in people with dementia. Don’t argue or disagree and don’t take it personally.
Usually, people suffering from dementia will say things have gone missing. Give them some cash to keep on their person. You could also help them look for the item (even if you know it’s not missing) and provide reassurance.
Nutrition and Daily Activities
People with dementia often struggle to maintain proper nutrition and drink enough water. Serve easy to eat foods like pre-cut fruit and sandwiches. Instead of three large meals, schedule five or six small meals throughout the day. Sit down to enjoy meals with them and establish healthy eating habits.
Sundowning and Irritability
Sundowning is when someone becomes excessively agitated or irritable in the evenings. Encourage activity during the day and a healthy sleep schedule. Keep rooms free of clutter, noise, and dangerous objects. Try to identify what’s triggering their anger and work with them to solve the problem.
Incontinence
Accidents and incontinence are embarrassing and can wear on a person’s morale. Try to establish a regular bathroom schedule and make sure they stay away from dehydrating foods or drinks like coffee.
Repetitive Speech or Actions
This is one of the more frustrating symptoms for caregivers and loved ones. Don’t get upset if your loved one forgets plans. Remain patient and reassuring. Avoid discussing important events until the last minute and help them out by writing notes.
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Entrust of DeSoto is a memory care assisted living community in Dallas, Texas. We create an environment that puts resident wellbeing at the center of everything we do. Our wide range of services and lifestyle options offer an individualized approach to assisted living.
Our 24-hour care and daily activities put resident safety and respect first. If you or a loved one live near Dallas, Texas and are considering assisted living for memory care, Alzheimer’s, or dementia, contact us today or stop by to see our community for yourself.
