Looking after a parent with dementia
We all want to take care of our parents as they grow old. We wish that they didn’t suffer from any ailments. But old age is uncertain. And sometimes, diseases like dementia do come into the picture. Taking care of a parent who has dementia is not easy. And one of the most critical areas here is the communication difficulties that you’ll face. Your parent might at times not comprehend your words and the intention behind it. And this surely can be frustrating.
Develop and understanding
You might find it tough to grasp the reason why your mother/father behaves differently under the impact of dementia. It’s a just a set of neurological patterns that make them act violently or strangely. The patient doesn’t have any control over it. Hence, the first way to care for your parent suffering from dementia is to acquaint yourself with these minor aspects. Know that you will have to deal with shocking and outlandish behavior and you won’t get petrified of the same. Instead, you will find better means to address and treat it.
A senior citizen assistance home might help
Sometimes, treating dementia isn’t possible in your own house, especially, if all your family members are working professionals. Hence, seeking help from memory care homes or senior citizen assistance communities can also be of help. You can customize the treatment and staying condition at home based on the mental health of your parent. So, if required you can even ask about non-medical services and other services meant for dementia patients.
Address the fluctuating thoughts
If your parent has dementia, then he/she will face problems in speech. Dementia will make them forget facts, everyday happenings and even people that they knew before. Hence, sometimes when you go to visit your parents, they might not recognize you. Alternatively, they might identify you for a short span and then run into oblivion again.
This kind of behavior is very delicate to handle. You shouldn’t be forcing your parents to recall things and places. You can gently coax them, but if they seem reluctant, leave the conversation right there. Cajoling results in violent breakouts.
Schedule the doctor appoints on time
When treating correct and on time, most ailments can get cured. The same rule applies to dementia. Get the doctor visits on time. From the neurologist check-ups to all the therapies that get recommended, make sure you don’t miss out on the same
Take care of the diet
Diet plays a key role while healing from dementia. As the brain activity is slightly questionable than before, there is also a change in your parent’s body chemicals. Hence, it might not break sugar and fats effectively as it used to previously. Therefore, consult a dietician and get a diet chart fixed based on a full body check-up.
Even though dementia has its challenges, still with proper care and caution you can manage the situation better. Dementia affects every person differently. So, take time to understand how it has changed your parent and make a treatment plan accordingly.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
