This is an extremely difficult task, and is often thankless and can cause friction between family members, as you probably know by asking the question. Assuming depression and other medical or prescription-related problems have been ruled out, and dementia has been diagnosed by a medical professional, and appropriate treatments are being utilized, then how to approach it can depend on the stage and type of dementia and, of course, according to the individual.
The early stages are the hardest times to try to convince them there is a problem. They may have been denying the problem for a very long time and compensating for memory loss to keep it unnoticed for long enough to have developed some really good denial skills and covering skills. They often are more adamant and more set in their ways by the age that the symptoms of some forms of dementia appear and become recognized by others. They have excuses and arguments ready to fire off to convince you, and themselves, that they can keep things as they are. Change is the enemy (or the bringer of change sometimes is), unfortunately for the loving people trying to help.
It is highly frightening to some people to think of just moving to a new place. To give up driving - and other things they see as symbols of their independence, on top of that - is more than many people are willing or able to face. This is a very significant adjustment and causes much stress, even in the lives of younger people with full memory and brain function. But it can be emotionally debilitating, or can cause angry outbursts in those with any form of dementia, but especially Alzheimer's Disease. This is in addition to their fear that they have been "found out" and that they must try to accept what they have denied for so long, i.e., that they are unable to care for themselves or live alone.
They will need to hear it presented calmly and lovingly and, most likely, multiple times by multiple people. If there is someone whom they have always respected and trusted and who can be there to back you up (with really nothing more than their presence and a well-timed nod), that can help.
With my mother, that was her family doctor. We slowly started introducing the topic when at our appointments with him, but, in our case, luckily, she was not living alone at the time and was being cared for by my stepfather. He was also able to move with her to an independent living section of an assisted-living community, so that when they needed more nursing involvement in her care, the move was down the hall instead of to a brand-new place. New locations are unsettling to them to a degree we can not even understand. It makes them lose the routines and visual reminders of life as they know it and can essentially grind their thoughts to a halt.
Others that the person may respect and trust are clergy and policemen. The doctor and a wonderful policeman who was willing to talk to her about her need to no longer drive and why (I called the non-emergency police department number and asked if anyone could help) told her the same things we had been telling her repeatedly (but calmly and sensitively). And little by little, she started to accept it. No actual bickering or arguments are allowed, even if they start it. That is a common denial tactic they may use, at best... a losing battle for you, at worst. It gives them justification to make you the "bad guy," and they often will pick a person to be the target of their anger and, sometimes, paranoia ("they only hurt the ones they love"). Your strength will be tested, too.
Later in the dementia process, it is actually easier in some ways, but harder in others, to convince them. As mentioned above, The 36-Hour Day will give you excellent suggestions and explanations of why their behavior is as it is, which will help you better help them.
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It can be difficult to help someone with dementia understand the need for a care facility. It's important to approach the conversation with empathy and understanding, validating their feelings while providing clear and simple explanations. Involving a healthcare professional or counselor in the discussion can also be helpful in identifying the best way to communicate and support the person with dementia in this transition.
You can seek dementia support for your mother-in-law from organizations such as the Alzheimer's Association, local senior centers, or memory care facilities. These groups often offer resources, support groups, and educational programs for both caregivers and individuals with dementia. Additionally, speaking to her healthcare provider can help guide you to appropriate services and support options in your area.
To get into a retirement home, you typically need to contact the facility you are interested in and inquire about the admission process. They will usually have an application or assessment process to determine if their services meet your needs and if you meet their residency requirements. It may also involve a tour of the facility and meeting with staff to discuss your needs and preferences.
There is no strict age requirement to move into a Home Instead facility as eligibility is based on the individual's needs for care rather than age. However, residents typically range from senior citizens to older adults who require assistance with daily living activities.
To address forgetfulness, safety needs may include setting reminders, organizing belongings in designated spaces, and creating routines to help establish consistency. Additionally, keeping a journal or using technology such as phone apps can be helpful in tracking tasks and important information. It's also important to prioritize self-care to support mental well-being and cognitive function.
There are too many variables and unknown factors.
It's essential that you choose a facility specifically tailored to your loved-one's individual needs. For instance, many assisted living facilities are open only to patients with memory conditions like dementia, and Alzheimer's in particular. Make sure the facility in Parkersburg that you choose can accommodate your loved-one's special needs.
nobody needs it
safety needs in mid
A person with dementia is still able to learn great skills. It is advisable to keep them occupied with certain care programs so that they can develop normally.
Tom Kitwood, suggests that people with dementia, have six psychological needs: attachment, love, comfort, identity, inclusion, and occupation.
You can seek dementia support for your mother-in-law from organizations such as the Alzheimer's Association, local senior centers, or memory care facilities. These groups often offer resources, support groups, and educational programs for both caregivers and individuals with dementia. Additionally, speaking to her healthcare provider can help guide you to appropriate services and support options in your area.
It is important to work with individuals with dementia on a one on one basis. Catering the program of care to their needs and capabilities will be best for them.
The types of facilities that offer dementia care vary. Nursing home will help with elderly while hospitals and mental institutes can help with everyone. Even prisons sometimes have programs for the mentally ill.
An entrepreneur can do a facility location analysis by comparing the features of the location to their needs. If the location is suitable, then the business person should consider purchasing the facility.
Around 70% of adults over the age of 65 needs long-term care at some point in their lives, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. When our loved ones can no longer live independently, that's when caregivers are faced with the difficult decision of what type of care to select because not all long-term care options are created equal. Two of the fastest-growing types of residential senior care are assisted living and memory care. So, it is important to contact dementia care facility. Visit seasonsalzcare.com for more information.
Sarah Copley has written: 'Meeting the needs of carers of dementia sufferers in the community'
After midnight? Joking. Your question needs some work done... what happens if someone feeds you? Understand why I'm not following?