Dementia is a terrifying illness. Over 50 million people around the world have been diagnosed with it. Unfortunately, it can be just as difficult for people with loved ones with dementia as for the people with dementia themselves.
Overcoming the Challenges of Caring for Someone with Dementia
If you are reading this article, then you likely already know that caring for a loved one with dementia can be trying and difficult for all involved. Although there are a few measures that can be done to help halt the progression of dementia, the disease will inevitably continue on its own path. Advanced stages of dementia can lead to increased memory loss, paranoia, and anxiety.
Regardless of how committed, loving, and responsible you are, the progression of dementia can understandably be too much for anyone to cope with, particularly if they are trying to deal with it alone. However, knowing when a person with dementia might require additional support and knowing the right time to move them into a full-time care home is not an easy decision. You may be experiencing feelings of guilt, loss or possibly even relief at the thought of moving your loved one into dementia-focused care. All of these are valid emotions that everyone working and caring for patients with dementia will understand.
We previously shared seven tips for dealing with dementia, but thought it might be prudent to have a more succinct post on the topic. We have included three tips for choosing dementia-focused care for seniors to assist with making your decision more straightforward and less stressful.
Consider the wishes of your loved one
Depending on the extent that dementia has taken hold, the individual with the disease will be able to make their own conclusion about whether or not they need to move into a dementia-focused care home. Naturally, emotions will run high; however, some seniors, like their younger selves, are very pragmatic and may prefer knowing that they are in a home that can assist with all of their needs and limits the stress they may feel they are imposing on their family.
Consider your own feelings
A dementia-focused care home for seniors is not only about assisting their residents. The extended family, their feelings, and concerns should also be honoured and respected. Moreover, a care home can offer advice and recommendations for other professionals who can assist with the necessaryfinancial and legal planning requirements that arise. Picking a care home that you feel listens and validates your concerns and opinions should be a priority when choosing.
Consider your loved one’s preferences
What always made your loved one smile? What can still bring a smile to their face? Is it being outside and hearing the birds or diving into their favorite audio mystery books? Look out for a care home that will take their interests seriously and have facilities in line with their hobbies, interests, and abilities. Vibrant assisted living care options exist, and attending some events at the facility in advance and making a few lunch visits or walks may ease the transition. Dementia-focused care for seniors has improved immensely in the past decade, with patient-centered care, technological innovations, and engaging activities to help fight the onset of dementia. Making the decision to look for a care home can be the most challenging part of the process, as care homes work to advocate for your whole family.
Come Up with a Plan to Care for a Patient With Dementia
There are a lot of reasons that dementia can be difficult for everybody involved. You will have an easier time if you make sure that your loved one is well taken care of without stressing yourself out too much.