Some individuals with dementia aren’t bothered by their memory loss, while others are troubled that they cannot remember things. They become less confident and are embarrassed when they cannot remember something. They may choose to withdraw from normal activities and avoid social settings.
Sometimes, these individuals lose things and believe others might have moved or stolen them. They cannot remember where they left the item and choose to blame someone else for it being misplaced. They may become angry with loved ones and decide they can no longer trust them. Sadly, this problem may only escalate as the dementia progresses. Avista Sumner has staff members trained to help and support these individuals as they struggle with their diagnosis.
How Family Members Can Support a Loved One With Dementia
Allow a person with dementia to share how they feel about the diagnosis, their memory loss, and other symptoms. When the memory issues frustrate or upset them, talking with others may help. It never hurts to try. Try to help them find solutions for the problems they are experiencing.
Many individuals with dementia worry about the future. Show empathy for their concerns and remind them to focus on the present. Help them list what they can still do and encourage them to engage in those activities as often as possible. If obstacles prevent them from doing so, try to find ways to overcome them. Doing so will help them rebuild the confidence they have lost.
Encourage these loved ones to spend time with others participating in activities that don’t rely on memory. When they become agitated because of their memory issues, try redirecting the conversation or moving to a new activity. Don’t push them to continue with something that is causing them to struggle. They are dealing with many issues and don’t need this added burden.
Caregiver Support
Caregivers also need emotional support. They experience a range of emotions when helping a loved one with dementia. They may enjoy reminiscing with these individuals, but they may also be sad when this person has forgotten important memories that involve them.
Caregivers might also get tired of hearing the same question repeatedly. It frustrates them, and then they feel guilty, as they know their loved one has no control over the memory loss. In addition, it can be challenging for the caregiver to know what topics are safe and which are off-limits. They must try to find safe topics that don’t rely too heavily on memory.
The caregiver must understand that these emotions are normal and that they are not alone in feeling them. However, the person bringing on these feelings cannot control the cognitive functions.
Caregivers need to remember that they positively impact their loved one’s quality of life. They put this individual’s needs before their own. At the same time, the caregiver should make self-care a priority. Caregiver burnout remains a significant concern today, and caregivers should take steps to prevent this common issue from affecting them.
Caring for a person with dementia is not easy. Their memory loss affects everyone around them. The best thing family and friends can do is provide this person with emotional support while ensuring the caregiver also receives support. When the caregiver’s mental and emotional health is safeguarded, they can provide better care for the person with dementia and provide the emotional support they need.
