Dealing with dementia and recognizing the signs when you might need help

Date: September 24, 2015

Many people feel a multitude of emotions when their loved ones begin showing signs of dementia. From forgetfulness to misplacing things around the house to more serious instances of getting lost or forgetting your family members, there are many signs that can be present when this disease rears its ugly head. As dementia progresses the symptoms worsen and as the sole care taker of your loved one, this can become a daunting and sometimes unmanageable job to provide the time and care they need. You might say to yourself, “I want to keep my mother at home with me as long as I can, but I’m not sure when she will begin to need more than I can give.”

Here are some indications that you might need to seek professional care for you loved one with dementia:

• When your loved one asks the same questions over and over even after you have answered them.
• If they have trouble remembering family members and close friends.
• Cannot remember important information such as addresses or phone numbers.
• Starting to have difficulty driving and doing other things they used to do, but deny it.
• Experiencing sudden changes in mood for little to no reason.
• Seem depressed, sleeping a lot and not leaving the house or expressing interest in things they once loved.
• If you are not sure what dementia diagnosis means or how to care for your loved one.
• If you are not sure you can provide the amount of care and time needed to care for your loved one.
• Your family is arguing and confused about what is happening to your loved one and cannot agree on a plan of care.

These are examples of instances or situations that could mean you, your family, and your loved one could benefit from seeking professional care. Even if the above examples sound familiar, that does not necessarily mean you need to seek professional care right away. This decision is different from every individual and family and when that decision becomes evident, Heritage Hall is here as a resource in your community when you need us.

 

Categorised in: Choosing long term care