A dementia diagnosis is among the most emotional prognoses you or a family member could receive, and for people who have recently discovered or indeed had their fears confirmed that a member of their family or a close friend has dementia, it can come as an enormous shock.
If you are in such a position, then hopefully, this article will help you to gather and organize your thoughts. Here is some positive action to take when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia.
Contact a Professional Body of Support
One of the most useful things to do, especially as a practical application of your worry and stress surrounding your loved one’s diagnosis, is to reach out, either by phone, e-mail, or stopping by a charity base to look for a means of support.
Hopefully, you and your family members will be there right from the beginning and throughout the next few months and years as your loved one comes to terms with their diagnosis, but professional organizations focusing on helping Alzheimer’s sufferers can be a huge help.
Learn Everything You Can About the Disease
Another effective piece of action to take is to take the time to learn about Alzheimer’s disease, paying particular attention to coping strategies and sourcing services and support groups around the local area.
Arguably, the most important and pertinent facts to know, remember, and truly understand about the disease are as follows:
- Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are by no means a normal and expected part of getting older.
- Many people living with Alzheimer’s have a high standard of living.
- Alzheimer’s can affect more than just memory and can change the way your loved one feels, understands things, talks, and behaves.
- Alzheimer’s is caused by an illness in the brain.
Talk to Them About the Future
Ensuring that you maintain a strong, open, and honest line of communication between you and your loved one is even more of a priority now than it ever was in the past, and part of this is not to be afraid to discuss potentially triggering topics.
Even though your loved one may well initially be defensive or even hurt when you bring up the possibility of moving to a senior living community at some point in the future, eminent and established memory care facilities at Avista Sun City West will ensure they can live as independently as possible.
Remember to Take Care of Yourself
Especially if you intend on becoming the primary caregiver, but in any case, to be an effective, positive, and practical influence and support for your loved one, it is so important to find the time to take care of yourself as well.
So, amidst the hectic world of looking after your loved one, fulfilling your personal duties, and taking care of your professional responsibilities, you must also spend some time alone with your thoughts, whether that be a walk in the park or a long soak in a hot bubble bath.
