Dementia Care: A Guide for Families
Dementia care is a type of care that families often experience with both trepidation and love. When a loved one is diagnosed with the disease, it's not just their world that alters; the family's entire dynamic shifts.
After a dementia diagnosis, and as the disease progresses, there is a lot to consider, and this can often feel overwhelming for all involved. We have created this blog to act as a guide to help you navigate through the complexities of dementia care, offering support and understanding.
Understanding Dementia
There is often a misconception of what we mean when using the term dementia. Dementia is not a specific disease, such as Multiple Sclerosis, but is an umbrella term that is used to discuss a wide range of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills.
The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, which accounts for 60-80% of cases.
While some of them overlap, each type of dementia has a different set of symptoms and progression. Understanding the nature of the dementia type that has been diagnosed is crucial for families as it prepares them for the journey ahead.
The Early Stages of Dementia
Recognising early signs of dementia can be challenging because many people will hide them when they first start experiencing them. Symptoms like memory loss, difficulty completing familiar tasks, and changes in mood and personality are indicators.
If you think you spot one or more symptoms, you should seek medical advice before jumping to conclusions. It's essential to approach the subject with sensitivity when suggesting a medical evaluation to your loved one.
Navigating Medical Care
The process of getting a dementia diagnosis involves a team of medical professionals, including neurologists, geriatricians, and psychologists. Families should be prepared for various diagnostic tests, which help in determining the type and stage of dementia.
The timeframe for getting a dementia diagnosis can vary depending on age, type of dementia, and healthcare system responsiveness. It can range from a matter of weeks to months and, in some cases, for rare dementia conditions, years.
Once a diagnosis has been given, these professionals will also play a vital role in managing the disease.
Creating a Supportive Environment
In the early stages of dementia, a person is likely to be able to live independently. However, a few modifications may be needed around the home to ensure it is safe and comfortable.
Creating a supportive environment will go beyond simply making sure their home is hazard-free. Establishing a routine will be key because as the dementia progresses, they will rely on this routine. The routine should include activities that stimulate cognitive and physical abilities, as this can help slow the progression of the disease down.
Additionally, a supportive environment will need to include people who understand the situation at every stage and are able to communicate with the person living with dementia.
Dealing with Behavioural Changes
One impact of dementia will often be behavioural changes, such as agitation, confusion, or aggression. These can be particularly challenging for family and friends to deal with.
It's important to remain patient and understanding, adapting your approach as needed to suit their changing needs.
There are several ways you can prevent anger, such as making sure the person living with dementia gets enough sleep, utilising the power of music, creating a calm environment with blankets, essential oils and pictures, and helping them stay physically and mentally active.
Aggression usually comes from a place of frustration, confusion and lack of understanding, so before reacting to any aggressive behaviour, step back, take a breath and try to understand the trigger of this behaviour.
Try to give your loved one space and time to calm down and calmly talk to them; responding in anger is likely to make the situation worse.
Acknowledging their feelings will often help, and where possible, utilise this to find a solution that allows the person to complete the activity that has triggered the reaction while keeping them and others involved safe.
Legal and Financial Planning
Early legal and financial planning is essential. This includes setting up power of attorney, living wills, and making arrangements for the long-term care costs.
Planning ahead helps in making informed decisions about your loved one's care. It can also allow them to be part of the process while they are still sound of mind, enabling them to have their say in what they want rather than their loved ones guessing.
Finding the Right Care Options
As dementia progresses, the level of care needed increases. Families must consider various care options, from in-home care services to specialised memory and long-term care facilities. The choice should align with the individual's needs and the family's capacity to provide care.
When looking for care and support, you should consider what your loved one's needs are currently and how they are likely to progress. You will also need to consider their routines and what they like and dislike; this should help determine what type of care you should employ and if you are considering a care home, what type of care home.
Caring for the Caregiver
Caregiving is an emotionally and physically demanding role. Caregivers must acknowledge their limits and seek support when needed. This can include joining support groups, seeking respite care services, or consulting mental health professionals.
Respite care and other support for the caregiver is important for many reasons. By taking the breaks needed, the carer can feel refreshed and provide better support and care for their loved one. Ensuring the caregiver is cared for is beneficial for both the giver and receiver.
Specialist Dementia Care and Support
Dementia care is a complex journey filled with challenges and moments of deep connection. As families navigate this path, it's important to remember that you are not alone. Seeking support, gathering information, and preparing for the future are key steps in providing compassionate care for your loved one while taking care of your own well-being.
If you're navigating dementia care questions about the progression of dementia and dementia care, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We are always happy to offer advice and guidance and discuss how our care home can provide expert care for your loved one.
For more resources and support, visit the below resource:
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/
https://www.dementiauk.org/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/care-and-support/help-and-support/
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/northtyneside/about-us/news/articles/2018/dementia-resources/