The people around the person, and how they provide support, play an important
role in supporting their sense of identity
. Being aware of how dementia affects the person and the changes they are experiencing can help you provide support that maintains their sense of identity.
Why is it important to Recognise dementia?
It can help people with
dementia to have access to relevant information, resources and support
, make the most of their abilities and potentially benefit from drug and non-drug treatments available. An early diagnosis gives someone the chance to explain to family and friends the changes happening in their life.
Why is it important to appreciate that everything a person with dementia says?
It’s important for carers as well as loved ones to show
a genuine interest
in what the person with dementia is saying and to show that you value their story. Reminiscence may uncover other unknown activities or interests that the person has previously enjoyed too.
Why is it important to learn about dementia care?
Getting dementia care ‘right’ is important on so many different levels.
Caring with dignity and respect allows
the affected person to retain as much of who they were as possible, and removing much of the fear for both the individual and their family. With dementia there are, unfortunately, a great number of unknowns.
Why is there a need to know the unique individual behind the dementia?
Seeing the person behind the dementia is ‘perhaps the most crucial aspect of care’ Helping a person to live well with dementia does not only mean treating the illness, but ensuring
their physical and mental wellbeing is maintained to
allow them to continue to have fulfilling life experiences.
Can dementia be seen on an MRI?
“We showed that
a single MRI scan can predict dementia on average 2.6 years before memory loss is clinically detectable
, which could help doctors advise and care for their patients.” Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, irreversible brain disorder that destroys memory and thinking skills.
How does dementia impact on a person’s daily activities?
Alzheimer’s disease and other kinds of dementia often make
performing ADLs difficult
. Tasks may be done halfway, poorly or not at all. For example, while some people with dementia appear as if there’s nothing wrong with them, others look disheveled and may wear dirty, mismatching clothes.
At what point do dementia patients need 24 hour care?
Late stage Alzheimer’s sufferers
become unable to function and eventually lose control of movement
. They need 24-hour care and supervision. They are unable to communicate, even to share that they are in pain, and are more vulnerable to infections, especially pneumonia.
How does one make someone with dementia feel valued?
People can recognise this by
being as supportive as possible
. Carers, friends and family, can help a person with dementia to feel valued and included. Support should be sensitive to the person as an individual, and focus on promoting their wellbeing and meeting their needs.
What should you not say to someone with dementia?
- “You’re wrong” …
- “Do you remember…?” …
- “They passed away.” …
- “I told you…” …
- “What do you want to eat?” …
- “Come, let’s get your shoes on and get to the car, we need to go to the store for some groceries.”
What is the basic concept of dementia care?
In the older population, dementia is the most frequent reason for long-term care. Because most forms of dementia cannot be cured, the aim of treatment is
to delay disease progression and to maintain functioning and quality of life
.
How does a dementia patient feel?
A person with dementia feels
confused more
and more often. When they can’t make sense of the world or get something wrong, they may feel frustrated and angry with themselves. They may become angry or upset with other people very easily. They might not be able to say why.
What skills do you need to work with dementia?
‘
Empathy and time to talk, tactile skills, patience and kindness
are the real skills which work,’ adds Mr Makin. Mental health nurses work with relatives as well as a team of professionals to plan care for a resident with dementia.
How do you build trust with someone with dementia?
- speak clearly and slowly, using short sentences.
- give them time to respond.
- give them simple choices – avoid creating complicated choices or options.
- try not to patronise them or ridicule what they say.
What are the benefits of effective communication on the lives of individuals with dementia?
Positive communication can help a person with dementia
maintain their dignity and self-esteem
. A caring attitude, use of appropriate body language and maintaining the right environment are all important aspects of communication.
What is the impact of attitudes and Behaviours of others on an individual with dementia?
Emotions and feelings. People with dementia often experience
changes in their emotional responses
. They may have less control over their feelings and how they express them. For example, someone may be irritable, or prone to rapid mood changes or overreacting to things.
