Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in mental ability to remember things and daily activities. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. Typically, dementia is a brain disorder that affects older people in general. It happens when nerve cells in the brain have failed or are decreasing. Yes, age is a common factor for dementia, however, nowadays, it has become a normal part of aging. As we grow old, we tend to forget more and our body declines – including our brain functions.
Dementia affects a person’s behavior
Dementia is not just about forgetting things; it’s more than just a memory loss – it can greatly affect a person’s day-to-day life. It’s not just the decline in the thinking skills, but more so, people with dementia are afraid that they may forget who they are; which can possibly happen when their condition worsens. When you have dementia, you sometimes don’t understand what’s happening and you feel helpless because sometimes you cannot do anything at all. Their behavior and the way they interact with people may change too. The most common changes in their behavior include:
- Repeating the same question over and over again
- Restlessness – they can’t be kept in one place only
- Cannot sleep tightly – they tend to do night time walking all the time
- Loss of self-confidence – they don’t involve themselves in any activities at all
- Following their partner around all-day
An individual with dementia needs more than just patience, but as well as understanding their condition. It will be a scary and confusing time for the patient with dementia and for the family members giving the care. Knowing how to deal with an individual with dementia can make the process less stressful.
Taking care of a person with dementia
People with dementia usually refuse any help for fear of being judged. If you are caring for a person with dementia, make sure you provide them a quiet and calm environment, and always show your understanding every time they fail to do a task. Do not blame them for their incompetence; instead, help them navigate through the process by giving them moral support.
It is also recommended to do some therapeutic lies in order to keep the patient with dementia suffer from anguish, sadness, and confusion. For example, if they ask about a spouse who already passed away, you may not tell them the truth. Instead, you can tell them that their partner has gone to the store and will be back.
A person with dementia may seem like a hopeless case, but don’t give up hope. Show them that their condition is not a hindrance to keep your relationship meaningful. If you know what to do, you can still enjoy your time together.
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