It can be difficult to know what to do if you suspect a loved one has dementia. It might be a sensitive issue to bring up, so think carefully about what to say and when to say it. Although it is tough to bring up the subject of dementia with an elderly loved one, it is vital to do so in order to guarantee that he or she receives adequate care.
This article will provide you guidance on what to do if you are suspecting that someone you care about has dementia.
Talk with Close Ones
Inquire with others who know your loved one about any changes they’ve seen. To prevent upsetting your loved one, try to do this in a private and courteous manner.
Some patients with early dementia become adept at concealing memory deficits. It may be more difficult for them to do so in the presence of people who know them well. It might be useful to find out whether others have seen the same things you have. You may discover that they share your worries but are unsure whether or not to express them.
Persuade Your Loved One to Visit the Doctor
A healthcare practitioner should assess your loved one. It’s possible that something else is interfering with cognition. Some of these issues, such as normal pressure hydrocephalus and vitamin B12 insufficiency, are reversible. Memory and judgment might also be impacted by thyroid issues or drug interactions. An examination will assist your loved one in receiving a much-needed diagnosis, which will be followed by appropriate therapy.
You may discover that your loved one is resistant to attending a healthcare specialist. If this is the case, try reminding them that they need to have their yearly check-up. You might call yourself if you are unable to get your loved one to see their healthcare practitioner. Request that the office staff calls your loved one to set up a visit. If you have a more convincing family member, ask them to step in. It’s possible that your loved one simply needs to hear the concept from someone else.
Empower Your Loved One
One of the concerns of newly diagnosed patients is that they would eventually have no influence over what happens to them. Make it clear to your loved one that they are still in charge of their own life. Tell them that you want to make sure you can fulfill their preferences in the coming years, so it’s important to look into memory care communities while your loved one is still able to comprehend information properly. Choosing where they will eventually reside may help them cope with the diagnosis and provide you with peace of mind that he or she will be adequately cared for.
Best Memory Care Program at Hidden Meadows On The Ridge
We understand the difficulties that seniors suffering from memory impairments face at Hidden Meadows On The Ridge. When your loved one arrives at our Memory Care community at Sellersville, PA, we will strive to guide and support them in a person-centered manner.
Our nurses and nursing assistants get specialized memory care training as well as continuous education, enabling them to give our patients the best care possible.
Please contact us if you have any questions regarding our SHINE® Memory Care program.
