Dementia is the general name for symptoms relating to memory loss, difficulty finding words and communicating, and challenges with planning, problem-solving, and complex tasks. Here are Dementia Causes, Symptoms, Stages & Treatments.
While the CDC believes approximately 5.8 million people have Alzheimer’s and related dementias in the United States, its prevalence doesn’t mean everyone understands or can manage behaviors.
If you’re a caregiver or family member of someone experiencing symptoms, knowing how to care for them and understand their situation can be crucial for their health and wellbeing.
Take note of this information below, and learn practical strategies for managing this complex health challenge.
Dementia: Causes, Symptoms, Stages & Treatments
Dementia is one of the most frightening diseases to deal with because it robs people of their memory and it is progressive. So that’s why you should know how to treat.
Use Validation Therapy
The validation method at retirement communities is a philosophy and technique that anyone can use to understand and empathize with people experiencing symptoms.
It’s a form of memory loss therapy that promotes listening and empathy to help those with feel relief from their anxiety, frustration, and fear of heart attack. Validation therapy was developed over a period of two decades by Naomi Feil, whose parents’ work with older adults provided her with first-hand experience with their care.+
Since then, the technique has been used to work through the emotions behind behaviors associated with conditions like Alzheimer’s.
The same validation method at retirement communities can be used in private care and involves some of the following techniques:
- Center yourself – Take a breath and slow down. Your initial thought of using logic may not be a suitable response for people.
- Match emotions – Acknowledge and empathize with the feelings someone with might have
Set a Positive Mood
As challenging can be, setting a positive mood can be crucial for constructive interactions. Use positive body language and an upbeat attitude, and be pleasant and respectful when you speak.
Your tone of voice, facial expressions, and physical touch can also pair with your attitude to allow for positive engagement.
Be Clear With Communication
One of the many symptoms associated with dementia is difficulty finding words and communicating. While they may find it challenging to communicate, they may also struggle to process conversations you have with them.
Use simple words, speak slowly, and create short, clear sentences. You may also experience a positive conversation by using a reassuring, stable tone and not raising your voice lower or higher.
If the person you’re talking with can’t comprehend what you’re saying, wait a few moments and rephrase your sentence. Patience is a core part of communication with someone living with dementia.
Listen With All Your Senses
Using all your senses to communicate is a common validation method in retirement communities, but it can also be a practical tip for those caring for their loved ones at home.
Identify body language that signals that they can’t find the right words to respond, and suggest words they can use to engage with you.
Take note of their body language and non-verbal cues so that you can understand how they’re feeling beyond the words they express.
Accommodate Behaviors
Personality and behavior changes are among the most challenging to manage in people living with dementia. It’s important to understand that you can’t change or control their behavior as a caregiver or family member. Instead, you can accommodate their behavior and change your own. ‘
An example of this might be if they wanted to start sleeping on their bedroom floor. Rather than spend time changing that behavior, accommodate it by placing a mattress on the floor to ensure their comfort.
Be Ready to Change Your Solutions
It’s easy to assume that you’ve found the recipe for success when managing someone’s dementia symptoms, but this condition is ever-changing.
As the disease progresses, behaviors can change, and solutions that have worked in the past may no longer be relevant.
Being willing and able to adapt to the Dementia disease may help you both understand your loved one or patient with dementia and manage their behaviors.
Rely On Medical Professionals
Not all adverse behaviors are dementia-related. Sometimes, they can be related to underlying health conditions like viruses, pain, medication side effects and mental health problems.
If you notice changes in their health and wellbeing, don’t assume it’s solely dementia-related. Contact their primary healthcare provider to rule out any severe health conditions that might be contributing to their behavior. Families and caregivers face many challenges when handling the care of people living with dementia. With patience, kindness, and empathy, you may make more of a difference in their situation than you might think.
Also Read