Dementia isn’t a single disease, but an umbrella term for memory loss and impaired cognitive function that disrupts daily life. There are over two hundred types of Dementia with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common, accounting for over half of all cases.
Warning Signs:
As we age, occasional forgetfulness is normal. But with Dementia, the forgetfulness becomes more frequent and severe. You might notice a loved one struggling to remember recent events, conversations, or where they placed everyday items. Familiar tasks like cooking or paying bills become difficult. They might get lost in places they know well, like their own neighbourhood. Personality and mood changes are also common. Someone who was once easygoing might become withdrawn or irritable.
These symptoms are distressing for both sufferers and those caring for them, they are atypical but may present differently with sufferers displaying some or all of them depending upon the individual’s disease pathology.
Supporting Someone with Dementia:
As Dementia is a progressive disease, the care required for sufferers changes through time. So how can you help to support those affected?
- Include them in family life and conversations, and ask for their opinions.
- Include them in decision-making as much as possible and do not make assumptions.
- Sufferers may not feel confident approaching you for help so be proactive and offer support and encouragement as often as possible.
- Don’t confront or argue with them if they forget something or make a mistake. Be gentle and offer reassurance and compassion.
- Don’t ask if they remember something.
- Don’t bring up topics that might upset them – like reminding them that a loved one has died.
- Don’t take things personally! The patient is not functioning as you do or as they used to, try to understand this, as hard as it may be.
Caring for someone with Dementia requires patience and understanding. The most important thing to remember is that the person you love is still there.
Hope on the Horizon:
There is currently no cure for Dementia, but medications can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis is crucial, but unfortunately, it can be difficult to get due to the long wait times for specialist appointments. There can be a wait of up to two years for an appointment at a memory clinic with the average wait from referral to diagnosis taking approximately 17.7 weeks. However, research is ongoing and the level of funding and understanding has increased in recent years and new drugs show promise in slowing the progression of Dementia.
Making Moments Matter:
Even with Dementia, meaningful moments of connection are still possible. Here at Santé Group, we want to be part of the solution in helping to create a better world for those living with Dementia and their families. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Memory Lane Games.
Memory Lane Games has produced a fun and engaging app specifically designed for sufferers and families with loved ones who have Dementia. The app features activities that calm, distract and spark joy. It has been used as a tool to connect, reminisce, and create lasting memories, even as the disease progresses.
Dementia may be a challenging journey, but it doesn’t have to define your loved one’s life. With the right support and resources, you can create a loving and enriching environment and focus on making every moment together count.
https://santegroup.co.uk/integrated-services/dementia-support/
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/news/2022-09-23/people-dementia-face-two-year-wait-diagnosis
