A dementia diagnosis is distressing. The unknowns compound the fear associated with the anticipated cognitive decline. While receiving a dementia diagnosis can be upsetting, it is important to reclaim life and take steps to make the next chapter of life as healthy and positive as possible.
Dementia is a general term describing the loss of memory, thinking skills, language, and problem-solving abilities that are severe enough to impair an individual’s normal and independent functioning in daily life.
Specific types of dementia include Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s dementia, and Lewy body dementia. Some individuals may develop mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – a precursor to other forms of dementia that may not necessarily lead to dementia or mixed dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. Vascular dementia is the second-most common cause of dementia. No matter what condition caused the abnormal brain changes, dementia is not a normal part of aging.
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Consult the doctor
Dealing with a dementia diagnosis should prompt the individual and their loved ones to prepare a list of questions for the physician. Medication-related questions may be pressing. Certain prescription drugs may worsen symptoms of dementia, so it is important to discuss the pros and cons of medication currently being taken.
Anticholinergic medications, for instance, block the action of acetylcholine, which is involved in learning and memory. Anticholinergic drugs may include some antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, sleeping pills, and medications prescribed to treat an overactive bladder. Benzodiazepines, which help people sleep, slow neuron activities in the brain.
A caregiver or the individual is urged to ask the doctor to review all medications currently being taken and to assess whether or not any of them would cause adverse interactions. Some previously prescribed drugs may need to be reconsidered upon receiving the dementia diagnosis.
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Consider a specialist
The individual’s doctor may refer the dementia patient to a specialist for specific types of care. Geriatricians, for example, are experts in managing medical problems that affect older adults. These professionals have knowledge of geriatric syndromes, including those related to cognitive changes.
A speech and language therapist can help a dementia patient improve her speech and find ways to communicate when the dementia condition makes it difficult to find the right words. Cognitive rehabilitation therapy provides exercises that remediate challenges with memory or executive function.
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Begin or maintain an exercise routine
Also consult the doctor about beginning an exercise routine. Exercise improves blood flow to the brain as well as increases the chemicals that protect the brain. Individuals who exercise experience cognitive health benefits, such as strengthening their mood and attention.
Dementia patients are advised to engage in physical activity several times per week for at least 30 to 60 minutes. In individuals with mild Alzheimer’s disease, exercise may improve memory, judgment and thinking skills. Exercise may also slow the progression of dementia.
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Focus on ability
As dementia advances, cognitive and physical abilities decline. Individuals who have received a dementia diagnosis must assess their abilities to determine what they are currently able to do. Focusing on the positives empowers dementia patients and helps them collaborate with healthcare teams to better manage symptoms.
A serious condition such as dementia will be understandably met with fear of losing control over multiple areas of life. Accepting the diagnosis and acknowledging the condition as a part of present-day reality helps the dementia patient focus on the aspects of life that are within their control.
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Join a support group
Individuals who’ve been diagnosed with dementia may suffer from early onset dementia. Joining a support group at these early stages can benefit the dementia patient emotionally. Other individuals who are on the same journey share stories and become invaluable sources of support.
The Alzheimer’s Association offers support groups for people living with dementia as well as for caregivers. Support may be received via virtual support groups or those that are locally based. Individuals affected by dementia may also post on message boards or in the online community.
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Live a healthy lifestyle
Self-care is essential as the brain condition progresses. Dementia patients are encouraged to not only exercise, but eat nutritiously. Nutrient-dense foods, like leafy green vegetables, fatty fish, and fruits, are fuel for the brain. Equally important is to hydrate adequately on a daily basis.
Promoting brain health also means getting a sufficient amount of sleep. The majority of older adults require seven to nine hours of quality sleep per night. Just as exercise is healthy for the body, brain exercises are beneficial for the brain; assemble puzzles, learn new dances, or play challenging games.
Socialize regularly, too, to boost overall emotional well-being. Dementia patients might consider volunteering for a meaningful nonprofit or charitable organization. Or, engage socially with professional dementia caregivers, who not only lend a compassionate ear, but help with daily tasks at home.
Call Assisting Hands for Help
When your loved one is facing a dementia diagnosis, they does not have to handle it alone. Professional Caregivers from Assisting Hands Home Care Richmond are trained to provide help with the activities of daily living as well as emotional support to individuals living with dementia.
Planning for future care is important once a dementia diagnosis is received. Dementia home care is the preferred choice of many dementia patients. Living in the familiarity of a home environment gives these individuals a much-needed sense of security. Assisting Hands Home Care makes aging in place possible.
Our dementia Caregivers are experienced in handling the various symptoms that emerge in dementia patients. When individuals wander, we gently guide them back to safety. Incontinence issues are discreetly handled. We compassionately calm individuals who feel agitated or suffer from mood swings.
Quality Caregivers from Assisting Hands Home Care gives your loved one a new lease on life. Our Caregivers prioritize individuals’ emotional and physical well-being. When you are planning for dementia care, choose Assisting Hands serving the greater Richmond area. Call our office at 804 500-9787 for a free, no obligation consultation with our Certified Dementia Care expert.
