As the adult population in the United States ages, unfortunately, Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementias are becoming increasingly common. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, today more than five million people are living with the disease. New methods to medicate, manage, and treat these conditions are becoming available everyday, but that doesn’t mean a cure will be found overnight. However, the type of care and treatment a patient receives at all stages will have a huge impact on quality of life and long-term health. Here are a few tips about how to help your loved one live the fullest life possible after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
1. Be Patient
In the early stages of these diseases, many people are aware of what’s happening to them. They may forget things and become disoriented, or even later become angry and upset about their lapse in regular brain function. You’ll most likely feel frustrated, but the most productive thing you can do is to remain patient and calm. If your loved one needs to be redirected or have something explained multiple times, don’t demand to know why they can’t remember or become angry. It’s better to remain positive and supportive, since that will not only reduce anxiety on the patient’s part, but also help them to remain engaged with the world.
2. Seek Treatment
Although this sounds obvious, many people don’t seek the right treatment at first. They wait until the disease has become severe enough that it interrupts daily life and makes it impossible to function, which wastes valuable time when you could be obtaining a diagnosis that can slow the effects in the early stages. The difference between someone medicated for Alzheimer’s or dementia versus someone who isn’t is vast, and impacts both what happens with care and quality of life dramatically. If you think your loved one may be displaying signs of these conditions, encourage them to go to the doctor as soon as possible.
3. Make Long Term Plans
One of the most important things to determine for a person who requires Alzheimer’s and dementia care is a long-term plan. For example, you should establish a healthcare proxy so that you’re allowed to make legal decisions on your loved one’s behalf. In the early stages of dementia and Alzheimer’s, if managed properly with medication and the right support, it’s easier to stick to a familiar routine and lifestyle. Explore your options of care at home at Capitalcitynurses.com or call and speak to a representative.
As is the case with any disease, Alzheimer’s and dementia are difficult to deal with. The best thing you can do is, though, is approach the situation proactively and with as much preparation as possible. You can also connect them on Facebook for more updates.
