Memory Care: Understanding Dementia

Not thousands, but millions of older adults worldwide have dementia. It is a progressive brain condition that affects memory, daily living abilities, and overall cognitive function. To effectively assist and care for those living with this condition, everyone involved must thoroughly understand dementia. In this article, our professional memory caregivers in NJ  will discuss dementia, how it affects people, the difficulties that those who have it encounter, helpful hints when caring for a loved one who has dementia, and where to find the proper support for dementia care.

How Does Dementia Affect People and What Causes It?

The term “dementia,” is actually not a medical diagnosis. Instead, it describes a handful of symptoms linked to a decrease in memory and thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life.In 60 to 80 percent of cases, dementia is caused by Alzheimer’s disease. Other kinds of dementia include mixed dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, and vascular dementia.

Dementia symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, but they frequently include memory loss, communication difficulties, confusion, poor judgment, and personality changes. As dementia worsens, people may struggle to maintain independence, carry out daily duties, and recognize familiar faces. It has a profound effect on not just the individual with dementia, but also their family, friends, and caregivers.

The Difficulties People Living with Dementia Face

Knowing what obstacles lie ahead for your loved one is the first step to better managing them. Confusion and disorientation brought on by memory loss and cognitive decline can make it challenging to navigate comfortable surroundings or recall crucial information like names and addresses. Frustration, worry, and a loss of self-confidence can quickly ensue. 

Communication becomes more difficult as the capacity to find and communicate words drops off. Seniors with dementia may struggle to express their thoughts and feelings, which can cause even more frustration – as well as social isolation if their first instinct is to withdraw. Furthermore, behavioral changes such as anger, aggressiveness, and apathy complicate caring and interpersonal interactions.

That said, it is vital for seniors with dementia to maintain their sense of independence and quality of life. Fortunately, general wellbeing and cognitioncan be supported by establishing a welcoming environment that encourages meaningful activities. 

Supporting a Loved One with Dementia: Some Advice

Providing dementia care for a loved one calls for tolerance, compassion, and comprehension. To help your loved one, please consider the following advice:

• Become informed: To better comprehend the requirements and difficulties of your loved one, learn about dementia and its evolution. You will be more equipped to give adequate care and make wise decisions if you are knowledgeable. One reliable source of information that is usually up to date is the Alzheimer’s Association. 
• Create routines: Having a regular schedule can ease disorientation and give a sense of comfort. Establish daily food, medication, and activity routinesto provide a comfortable and structured environment.
• Effective communication: Use plain language, speak slowly, and give your loved one enough time to comprehend what you are saying to reply. Communication can also benefit from nonverbal indicators like gestures, facial expressions and visual cues like pictures.
• Create a secure environment: Reduce risks of wandering and falling by clearing clutter, adding handrails, and utilizing safety equipment like grab bars and non-slip mats. If roaming starts to worry you, think about putting a wander control strategy in place. This may include installing an alarm system if your loved one unexpectedly wanders away from home.  
• Engage in meaningful activities: Encourage your loved one to participate in enjoyable, mind-stimulating activities. We suggest crossword puzzles, crafts, music, or light exercise.

Getting Support and Resources for Care of Dementia

Join a support group or contact senior living organizations specializing in dementia care to get support. These sources can offer insightful direction, sympathetic support, and helpful counsel. Here are some options to consider:

• Specialized memory care services: Consider moving your loved one to a professional memory care community that works with with dementia every single day. With trained caregivers who know the particular requirements of people with dementia, these communities can help your loved one live their life to the fullest with their memory disorder.
• Home care services: If your loved one with dementia prefers to stay at home, home care services can offer companionship, help with daily tasks, and medication management.
• Support groups: For people and families impacted by dementia, various groups provide guidance, resources, and support. Again, the Alzheimer’s Association helps carers and people with dementia by offering information, support groups, and a 24-hour helpline.
• Get educated: Look for workshops or educational programs concentrating on dementia care. These programs can offer insightful information on understanding dementia, controlling challenging behaviors, and improving communication. Check out the financial aid programs that are available for dementia care as well. Some long-term care insurance plans may pay for the costs of memory care. Additionally, Medicaid and other government programs may assist those who qualify.

If you are the primary caregiver, keep in mind that you must also look after yourself. Have qualified caregivers temporarily look after your loved one from time to time through respite care. These services provide a reprieve, enabling you to relax and refuel.

Remember that you are not traveling alone. United Methodist Communities is committed to providing care for older adults from all origins and faiths, including those with dementia. Our memory care communities offer specialized treatment in a welcoming and caring setting. Visit our website to learn more about our services and how we can help you and a loved one on the path to understanding and managing dementia: https://umcommunities.org

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/umc-corp/blog/memory-care-understanding-dementia/