Dementia is an umbrella term for the general decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily activities.
Dementia impacts the aging process by deteriorating the brain and its functions to cause impairments in one or more functions. Normal aging does NOT include memory loss. Many people live long lives without cognitive changes or changes that affect their activities of daily living (ADL)
Dementia affects many parts of the brain, and each person is affected differently. Each part of the brain plays a critical piece of cognitive and functional ability. Changes can include:
Memory
Perception
Language and speech
Comprehension
Sight
Mobility
Noticing the signs of dementia in your loved one
We’ve all walked into a room wondering why we went in there. Incidents like this are most likely mild forgetfulness, something that seems to increase as we age. So how do you know if your loved one’s forgetfulness is the sign of a more serious problem? The signs of a possible serious memory problem like Alzheimer's or dementia include:
Not being able to follow directions
Getting lost in places they know
Becoming confused about people, place, and time
Asking the same questions
Failing to care for themselves.
If your loved one is exhibiting any of these symptoms, make an appointment with their doctor right away.
Caring for a loved one with dementia
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be frustrating and exhausting. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts of interacting with someone with dementia.
DO
Approach from the front
Speak slowly and clearly waiting and allowing for responses
Validate the way the person feels, hears, sees, and believes
Give options and opportunities
Remind yourself your behavior matters
Be patient, kind, thoughtful
Use cueing or demonstrating to help when your loved one struggles
DON’T
Argue
Try reality orientation
Talk down to your loved one or try to finish their sentences
Assume ANYTHING
Limit choice due to perception
Be mean, rude, abrupt, or dismissive
Listening is the most important part of dementia communication. Listen for your loved one’s emotions and feelings then focus on those feelings, not what they are saying.
When caring for your loved one with dementia, there will be times when you need help. Know that there are many resources out there to guide you through this journey. A great place to start is the Alzheimer’s Association.
Article Written by:
Discovery Memory Care
408 W. Washington Street, Sequim
360-207-4896
Discovery Memory Care specializes in caring for seniors with dementia. At Discovery Memory Care, you will find a compassionate care team, superb amenities, and a range of services that help their residents live independently. If you feel that you and your loved one would benefit from a break, Discovery Memory Care can also provide short-term stays for respite.
At Discovery Memory Care, their Life Enrichment and Resident-Centered Care program includes 8 Core Components:
Personal care and activities of daily living
Social interaction
Emotional support
Physical activity
Mental stimulation
Life-enrichment activities
Artistic expression
Good nutrition
The purpose of these proven Core Component strategies is to support and comfort our residents and enrich their daily lives. Our supportive community is more than just a place to live—it’s home!
Pinnacle Customer Service Award
Discovery Memory Care is the proud recipient of the Pinnacle Customer Experience Award™ for the past 5 years running, an honor bestowed to the top 15% of care providers who have achieved best-in-class customer satisfaction standards within their peer group.
Want to see their community in-person?
Schedule a tour today. Call 360-207-4896 or visit www.discovery-mc.com