When my husbands dad was diagnosed with dementia, the decline was very rapid and we really felt we had nowhere to turn for advice and support. A guest writer submitted this post and bear in mind, if its early days, its well worth looking to supplements that can support too. Janey
Dementia Care: How to Care for Your Parent’s Health
It is natural to experience feelings of helplessness following a parent’s dementia diagnosis. Yet, there are actions you can take to slow down the disease and protect their health and well-being.
With forward planning, small lifestyle changes, and love and understanding, you could help your mum or dad enjoy a better quality of life when living with one or more forms of dementia. Continue reading for helpful advice on how to care for your parent’s health.
Spend Quality Time with Your Parent
Many people living with dementia experience depression, which can occur at any stage. The disease can feel scary and confusing for your parent, but your love, support, and company could lift them up when they are feeling down.
For instance, your mum or dad might struggle to remember certain words or mislay items, but they may recall fond memories with great detail. Don’t allow the symptoms of dementia to stand in the way of a meaningful conversation. Share memories, look through photographs, or retell stories, as it may cheer up your parent and make them feel more in control of their health.
Consider an Assisted Living Facility
As dementia progresses, you might be unable to provide your parent with the care they require each day. For this reason, you may need to consider long-term options to ensure they receive around-the-clock care to enjoy a better quality of life.
Moving a parent with dementia into a care home is likely a decision you won’t take lightly. However, it might help to know that exceptional facilities are available that will make your mum or dad feel relaxed, comfortable, and supported every day. Visit https://mcknightplace.com/areas-served/des-peres/ to find out more. The right facility will make the transition as smooth as possible for your loved one and their family.
Be Understanding and Compassionate
Behavioural changes are common among people living with dementia, especially as the disease progresses. When your parent acts out of character, you might attempt to change their ways or argue back to encourage their return to their normal selves. Rather than trying to change your loved one, you must show understanding and compassion to avoid further upset and confusion.
Also, try to get to the root cause of their behaviour. If they are acting unusual, it might be a sign their needs haven’t been met, but they cannot articulate what they need. What’s more, their strange behaviour might have a trigger, such as a loud environment or a specific time of day. Try to adapt to their behavioural changes as best as possible and remain compassionate and understanding.
Do not hesitate to call their doctor if the behavioural changes persist or your parent acts aggressively. If this happens, their actions might indicate they are experiencing pain, but they may not know how to express it. As a result, a doctor could adjust their medication, perform further tests, or identify ways to improve their comfort.
Caring for a parent with dementia isn’t easy, but help and support are available in many forms to ensure your mum or dad receives the time, attention, and treatment they need.
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Its well documented that certain supplements can really help in the early stages of dementia, and won’t do any harm!
For the best quality supplements use this link, and a few quid goes to our Sober Club giveback fund.