A diagnosis of dementia, either for yourself or for a loved one, marks the beginning of a long and difficult journey. The disease itself can be very unpredictable which makes planning ahead with any great certainty a difficult process.
However, it is important that you do put plans in place to ensure that the person diagnosed with dementia is going to be supported throughout their lives at every stage of the disease. As dementia progresses, the sufferer is likely to require more support and elderly careis something that you are going to have to consider for the future.
What is dementia?
Dementia is a degenerative disease which affects the cognitive ability of the person who has the condition. Dementia causes cells in the brain to die which can cause a range of mental and physical problems. Early signs of dementia usually include short term memory loss, as these are the first areas of the brain to be affected.
As the disease progresses, it can affect a range of abilities such as problem solving, time management as well as more severe memory loss. Patients with dementia may also experience mood swings and personality changes. Physical abilities begin to be affected as the disease continues to develop in the brain and the sufferer may experience mobility and personal hygiene problems.
Getting care options in place early
While dementia can progress at different rates for different people, your doctor will be able to give you plenty of information about what the future is likely to hold if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with the condition. It is important that you use this information to consider your care options early so that you can get plans in place before it becomes absolutely necessary.
According to the Live-in Care Hub, early planning can be beneficial for both the family and the person suffering with dementia. This allows the person who is going to need more care and support in the future to have their thoughts and opinions heard and understood. It is vital that the person receiving care has their wishes respected in order to maintain their dignity as the disease progresses.
As dementia attacks short term memory first, early planning and introduction of the idea of elderly care can help the sufferer understand what is going on. Regular contact with the person who is going to become their carer will help the person with dementia to recollect who they are; helping to avoid upset and distress later down the line.
Planning ahead also allows you to consider your care option fully before you are left with little choice as extra support and assistance becomes a necessity. Many patients with dementia find moving into a care home or having irregular domiciliary carers very upsetting and confusing. Live-in care is often the best solution for elderly care for those suffering with dementia as a regular carer moves into the client’s home, allowing them to stay in familiar surroundings and also allowing carer and client to establish a strong bond which the client can rely upon.
