How to Cope with a Loved One with Dementia

When a loved one is diagnosed with Dementia it can be a frightening thing for both the loved one and for the rest of their family. People with dementia do not know that something is wrong with their minds and may just think that people are treating them differently. Dementia will in almost every case, turn into Alzheimer's, another devastating disease. I hope that by reading the following suggestions, that you will learn how to cope and help a loved living with this condition.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. It is very important to educate yourself on how a person with dementia might act and react in certain situations. Being prepared to answer questions over and over again, reminding the person of what they just said, or helping them recall memories is a big part of dealing with a loved one with dementia.

2. Dementia can cause your loved ones to become agitated, they will get upset, angry, frustrated and may even lash out physically. A change in surroundings can unravel them because they are easily confused and may see things as detrimental to them and not helpful. Staying calm in these situations is key, if you get upset, they will most likely get more frustrated and more upset. Let them do things their way, as long as they aren't in any danger, let them make the call, just be there for them.

3. Some people with dementia will have trouble going to sleep, try helping them out by having them be aware of the time, bring up the time in conversation, or make a comment that it is late or that it's dark outside to trigger them. They will sometimes just get turned around and not realize that it is nighttime instead of daytime. Place a clock near their bed so they can see the time. Sometimes the dark can cause confusion, place a plug-in nightlight in their room so it's not completely dark.

4. Dementia can also cause a person to wander; they become anxious and confused and are just trying to figure out where they are. Be sure if they are in a room that is locked. Placing an alarm on the door will help in alerting you if they leave their room. This may seem like you are keeping them prisoner, but remember that you are doing it as a safety precaution and because you love them.

5. Dealing with a loved one who has dementia is extremely hard, but with a good support system and education, you can help your loved one lead a better life. Spend as much time as you can with them and maybe even join a support group to help you cope. Dementia doesn't get better, but by being there for your loved one and knowing how to deal with them can be the best medicine ever.

[Zibahrose]

on 3/12/2009 My heart goes out to the families and loved ones who are having this experience. Thanx for writing!

[honeyd81]

on 1/23/2009 This was a wonderful article. Thank you

[bossypants]

on 1/7/2009 Thanks for your kind and gentle instruction in coping with this devastating condition!

[didya]

on 12/17/2008 great stuff..my grandpa has this :(

[GigiFab]

on 12/17/2008 This is such a great article as my grandpa who's 98 recently was diagnosed this. I am very grateful for awareness provided in this article. 5 star all the way