Signs of dementia are showing: What you should do for your loved one

Dementia is one of the most heartbreaking diseases to see in a loved one, and it can cause all manner of stress both for those starting to feel the symptoms and those around them.

It’s something more of us will experience in the coming years, with around 982,000 people living with it currently, expecting to rise to 1.4 million by 2040 as the average age of people increases.

Spotting the signs of dementia early in people can be vitally important as while there isn’t a cure, utilising the likes of dementia care services and exercises, activities and nutrients can stem the progression of it.

So, if you’re seeing the signs in a loved one, what exactly should you do?

Firstly, Recognise the Early Signs

Naturally, the first step is recognising the signs and there are a number that may appear and cause red flags. If you start to see any of the below, and they begin to become more and more frequent, then it’s time to start thinking about taking action.

● Memory Loss
● Confusion
● Language Difficulties
● Changes in Mood and Behaviour
● Difficulty with Routine Tasks
● Poor Judgment

Seek Medical Advice

That action should undoubtedly be seeking medical help. Make an appointment with your loved one’s GP, who you’ll be able to discuss the symptoms with, and they’ll be able to complete a full, medical evaluation. This can rule out other potential causes, such as deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, things such as thyroid problems or even depression. It will also help confirm or seek specialist help to get a diagnosis for dementia.

Get a Comprehensive Diagnosis

Seeking a diagnosis is really crucial for understanding the type of dementia and how it may be developing. There are several tests that may be undertaken to determine this, including:

● Cognitive Tests: Assessing memory, problem-solving, and language skills.
● Blood Tests: Checking for underlying health issues.
● Brain Scans: Using MRI or CT scans to identify brain changes associated with dementia.

This step is so important as it will give you a clear cut answer, from which you can then build upon.

Educate Yourself

That begins with educating yourself about dementia and the type of dementia that your loved one may have. Explore the resources and care options available, what you can do to help, how to become a carer and understand how the condition can progress, alongside any symptoms you can begin to anticipate and adapt your approach.

Plan for the Future

Unfortunately, planning for the future is also an important part, beginning with the legal, financial and healthcare matters. Doing this early on can prevent it getting more complicated later on. You’ll need to think about:

● Power of Attorney: Ensure that legal authority is in place to make decisions on behalf of your loved one.
● Advance Care Planning: Discuss preferences for future medical care and end-of-life wishes.
● Financial Planning: Organise finances, ensuring there are funds available for long-term care needs.

Create a Supportive Environment

Ultimately, you need to create a supportive environment so that your loved one can feel as comfortable as possible in dealing with dementia. You may need to make safety modifications to the home, as well as adapt their routine slightly.

Establishing a daily routine can be really important in creating a stable environment, which can significantly reduce anxiety and the effects of dementia. What’s more, think about activities and social events and things they can enjoy, to keep the mind active and stimulated, slowing the rate of cognitive decline.

Seek Support for Yourself

What’s important to note is that it isn’t just support for your loved one that’s needed, it’s yourself too. Caring for someone with dementia can be incredibly challenging and you need to look after your own wellbeing. Have a support group in place, friends that can help with jobs and make sure you have time for your own hobbies, whether that be having a friend or family take over care for a while, or utilising the many respite care services that are available.

What’s more, don’t struggle alone, consider care homes if looking after your loved one isn’t manageable. It will only improve the care they are receiving and ease the stress and concerns you may have trying to do everything.

Stay Positive and Patient

Finally, maintaining a positive and patient attitude is crucial. Dementia can be a long and unpredictable journey, but your support and understanding can make a significant difference in your loved one’s life. Celebrate small achievements, cherish moments of connection, and remind yourself of the love and care you are providing.