Coping with a parent’s dementia diagnosis can be an emotionally challenging journey that requires patience, understanding, and careful planning. Dementia is a progressive neurological condition that affects memory, cognitive function, and behavior, and its impact on the individual and their family can be profound.
After a parent receives a dementia diagnosis, there are several important steps to take to ensure they get the best possible care. Our team at Aden Senior Living, offering memory care in Ormond Beach, Florida, is sharing guidance on what to do after someone you love receives a dementia diagnosis.
Educate Yourself
First, understand the specific type of dementia Mom or Dad has been diagnosed with, whether it is Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, or another type.
Learn about the symptoms, progression, and potential challenges associated with that particular type of dementia. Knowledge is empowering and can help you make informed decisions about your parent’s care.
Seek Professional Guidance
Schedule appointments with medical professionals who specialize in dementia care. This might include neurologists, geriatricians, or neuropsychologists. These specialists can provide a more accurate diagnosis, offer treatment options, and help develop a comprehensive care plan tailored to your parent or relative’s needs.
Develop a Care Plan
Collaborate with medical professionals to create a personalized care plan for Mom or Dad. This plan should address medical, emotional, and social needs, outlining strategies for managing symptoms, medications, and programs to help your parent maintain cognitive function and a fulfilling lifestyle.
Encourage Engagement
Keeping the mind active and engaged can help slow cognitive decline. Encourage Mom or Dad to pursue hobbies they enjoy, such as puzzles, arts and crafts, gardening, or listening to music. Staying engaged helps provide a sense of purpose and boosts their overall well-being.
Legal and Financial Planning
Dementia is a progressive condition, making it important to address legal and financial matters early on. Consult an attorney specializing in elder law to create legal documents like a power of attorney for healthcare and finances, a living will, and possibly a guardianship arrangement. These documents ensure Mom or Dad’s wishes are honored, and you can make decisions on their behalf if necessary.
Build a Support System
Caregiving for someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically taxing. Reach out to other family members, friends, and support groups to build a network of people who can offer assistance and understanding.
Caregiver support groups provide a platform to share experiences, exchange advice, and find emotional support from others who are going through similar challenges.
Prioritize Self-Care
Caregiving can be all-consuming, but it is important to prioritize your own well-being. Burnout is common among caregivers, so make time for yourself to reset and recharge. Whether reading, exercising, meditating, or spending time with friends, taking care of yourself enables you to better care for your parent or relative.
Embrace Flexibility
Dementia is unpredictable, and your parent’s needs may change rapidly. Be prepared to adapt your care plan and daily routines to accommodate their evolving needs. Flexibility is critical to providing the best care and maintaining a positive atmosphere.
Explore Care Options
There may come a time when a person living with dementia needs the additional support offered in a memory care community like Aden Senior Living. Memory care communities provide specialized programs that are designed to slow the progression of dementia through engagement and personalized care.
Our memory care services in Ormond Beach focus on catering our signature Valeo™ programming to each resident, helping them reach their fullest potential.
Celebrate Small Victories
Dementia presents numerous challenges, but it is essential to celebrate the small victories along the way. Whether it is a smile or a successful day, these moments are significant.
Receiving a dementia diagnosis is a difficult and emotional experience. However, with the right approach and support, it is possible to provide quality care and maintain a meaningful connection. You are not alone on this journey, and resources are available to help you every step of the way.
We invite you to contact Aden Senior Living to learn more about our memory care community in Ormond Beach, Florida, and how we can help Mom or Dad live fully and joyfully.
