Grandma has Dementia....What Happens Next? The Challenges of Living with Dementia Symptoms
Dementia is a broad term that refers to many symptoms and conditions caused by loss of brain function. It can be diagnosed as early as the 40s and 50s and takes different forms for different people.
The challenges of living with dementia symptoms can be overwhelming. Dementia patients may experience difficulty in thinking, speaking, learning, reading, writing or making judgments. They might also have difficulty with personal care or managing their money.
Dementia is a debilitating neurological disorder that can cause severe memory loss, confusion, changes in mood and personality, and difficulties with speech or language. Dementia is a term that covers a number of conditions that affect the brain. These conditions are often progressive, which means they get worse over time. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, but there are many others. Dementia affects how an individual functions in everyday life, and can have serious consequences on their family members and caregivers.
As more people live longer with dementia symptoms, new challenges arise for them and their loved ones. The Alzheimer's Association states that while up to 5% of people over 65 years old have dementia, the number increases to 50% for individuals over 85. One of the worst parts about living with dementia symptoms is that it can be challenging to diagnose. Doctors are not sure if there are any early signs or symptoms. For caregivers, it can be difficult because these symptoms are so varied and change rapidly.
Caregivers for loved ones with dementia often struggle to find quick and practical solutions to their loved one's needs. Here we will provide you with some practical tips and tricks to make life easier for both of you as a caregiver.
- The first thing you should do is make mental notes of their daily routine, such as what they like to do, what time they wake up, what time they usually go to bed. This will allow you to better understand them and help plan your day accordingly.
- It is important that the home environment be as familiar and comfortable as possible for your loved one. Making their environment more familiar can help ease anxiety and frustration which can lead to aggressive behaviors.
-Tips for caregivers:
- Be patient and understanding.
- Help the person stay active.
- Focus on their strengths and abilities.
- Let them make choices and do what they want to do.
- Talk to them about what they did in the past.
- Make routines fun
- Try to enjoy being around people with dementia
- Don't take away the person's independence
Avodah Home Care is committed to improving the life for all patients especially dementia patients. We provide around the clock care, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our caregivers will help with the tasks that are too difficult for the patient at this time in their life. They can also make sure that the patient is well taken care of, has regular meals and provide medication reminders. If you are having difficulty caring for your loved one with Dementia or Alzheimer's, please allow us to extend a helping hand. Contact us at 803-764-4048 for a FREE In-Home Assessment and let us help you care for your loved one. We provide Quality Care You Can Trust!!!