A Guide to Supporting Loved Ones with Dementia or Cognitive Change

2022-05-10 04:46:23

What Is Dementia and How Does It Affect You?

Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability due to brain disease or injury. Dementia affects memory, thinking, language, judgment, and behavior. It is not a normal part of aging.

There are many different types of dementia, but the most common form is Alzheimer’s disease. Other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with dementia, as each person experiences the condition differently. However, there are some general tips that can help.

10 Signs and Symptoms of Persistent Dementia

  1. Repeated interrogation and story-telling
  2. Unusual or inappropriate actions
  3. Ignorance of recent events
  4. Falls or a lack of balance on a regular basis
  5. Personality morphs
  6. Planning and organization have deteriorated.
  7. Changes in eating habits/diet
  8. Hygiene modifications
  9. Apathy is on the rise.
  10.  Language abilities, especially understanding, change over time. 

You may have already noticed these changes in your loved ones if you are able to visit them on a regular basis. If these changes last for an extended period of time, you should see your loved one's medical care provider or a geriatrician as soon as possible. It may be difficult to identify and report a change in condition or behavior if you live far away from your loved one. Professional caregivers, such as those employed by NewDay Senior Care, are trained to detect and report changes in your loved one's condition, behavior, communication, and ability level.

If you are caring for someone with dementia, it is important to:

- Be patient. Dementia can cause changes in mood and behavior, so it is important to be patient and understand that the person is not acting this way on purpose.

- Communicate clearly. When speaking to someone with dementia, use short, simple sentences and make sure to face them so they can see your lips moving.

- Avoid arguing. It can be tempting to argue with someone with dementia, but this will only upset them and can make the situation worse.

- Encourage social interaction. Staying socially connected is important for people with dementia. Joining a support group or attending social activities can help.

- Plan for the future. Dementia is a progressive condition, so it is important to plan for the future. This includes making legal and financial arrangements, as well as planning for live-in care if necessary.

If you are dealing with dementia yourself, it is important to:

- Stay active. Exercise and social activities can help slow the progression of dementia.

- Eat a healthy diet. Eating healthy foods can help improve brain function.

- Get enough sleep. Getting enough rest can help reduce stress and improve cognitive function.

- Take breaks. When caregivers need a break, there are respite care options available. This can provide much-needed relief for both the caregiver and the person with dementia.

- Seek support. There are many support groups available for people with dementia and their caregivers. This can provide an outlet to share frustrations and learn from others who are dealing with similar issues.

How Can Newday Senior Care, Inc. Assist You?

Newday Senior Care, Inc. can analyze the needs of your family and your loved one to build a person-centered home care plan to match your family's specific circumstances once you've determined you need outside help, whether short-term assistance or a plan for full-time continuous support. We provide elderly sitter services to virtually any family in almost any situation, and our caregivers are educated to spot changes in your loved one's behavior. We're dedicated to offering your loved ones the care they need while also giving you the peace of mind you deserve.

Plan of Care That Is Unique

When you contact us, we'll ask you a few questions to get a sense of your needs, and then schedule an in-home visit. Following our initial consultation, we create a Custom Care Plan that is tailored to your loved one's unique needs and give thorough service suggestions. We then go over the Plan with you in detail and make any changes you and your loved one think are necessary.

Matching Caregivers

We match your loved one with the most appropriate caregiver possible once you accept the Custom Care Plan, taking into account a variety of characteristics such as services required, interests, and the personality of both the caregiver and the client. Of course, if you have any concerns about a particular caregiver, we may quickly replace them.

Care of the highest standard

Every caregiver at Newday Senior Care, Inc. goes through a thorough interview procedure that includes background and reference checks. Before caring for a client, caregivers are trained and bonded/insured. Then, on a regular basis, local supervising personnel visits your loved one's home to ensure that everything is running smoothly and that carers are adhering to the requirements of the Custom Care Plan.

Call us today at (407) 767-8852 for your free in-home consultation to see if Senior Companions are right for you or your loved one.