A person experiencing memory loss is, at the least, confused. When we can’t remember and track what’s going on, it’s very confusing. And it can be scary!
Anger and fear are natural responses. People with dementia often don’t recognize they have a problem. They just know that the world is not as they expect it to be.
Personality changes are common, as are changes in behaviors as the disease progresses. For instance, people with middle stage dementia frequently lose their social inhibitions. They forget the social customs we call manners. This can lead to actions that are embarrassing and very confusing for families.
Research indicates that caring for a person with memory loss is extremely stressful. A diagnosis of dementia, more than other conditions, takes its toll on the family.
Dementia caregivers are much more likely to be depressed. They also are more likely than other caregivers to develop significant health problems.
If your relative has dementia, you need to be extra careful to mind your own health. And you need to develop strategies for coping with stress.
Although working together as a team is optimal in elder care, that can be challenging in the case of dementia.
In the earlier stages, it is important that the person with dementia be involved in decision making. As the disease progresses, however, he or she will lose the ability to make reasoned decisions. More than with other conditions, the role of the family will change.
Determining when and how to phase out responsibility for decision making can be difficult. A care manager can give you a sense of the stage of dementia. He or she can help walk you through the formal diagnosis process. A care manager can also help you find resources now and to plan for the future.
Even if the memory loss condition is not curable, there are things you can do to make daily life more pleasant for all of you.
It’s very important that you reach out and get help. People with dementia need support and access to others who know what it’s like. Joining a support group of people with early stage dementia is invaluable!
Caring for someone with dementia can be physically and emotionally taxing. Family members need patience, strength, and regular breaks from caregiving. Support groups can be extremely helpful. There are also other programs and sources of support.
You don’t have to do this alone At By Your Side, we understand dementia. Give us a call at 541-229-CARE (2273). We’d be happy to help with resources for everyone in the family.
Who can you talk to about this big change in your life?
Highly recommend. They take care of my parents and I wouldn’t know where I would be with out them. Communication is amazing. Office staff is very respectful. The caregiver also raves about working for them and said they are are overall one of the best companies to work for around Douglas county.
BY YOUR SIDE has amazing staff and co-workers that make it fun and different from the rest. Not to mention they have great caregivers who took care of my mother and father in law before their passing. Thank you for sending loving caregivers who stood by their side. The Griess Family
I have worked for this company for 3 years. I love the office staff and the caregivers that I have been able to meet. They are loving and so kind. The clients are well loved and well taken care of. If you ever have a problem they are right there with you. I recommend this company.
A person experiencing memory loss is, at the least, confused. When we can’t remember and track what’s going on, it’s very confusing. And it can be scary!
