Maybe Dementia Can Be Less Frightening and Confusing

There are 120 different types of dementia, and there is no single test to diagnose it. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form. Five million Americans have the disease and the numbers are expected to more than double by the year 2030. Learning more about dementia is the first step in dealing with it. There are tips and tools that can help.

Society's Assets can add to the conversation about dementia. We've provided many years of in-home care, respite, safety assessments, advocacy, and other services for individuals with disabilities and chronic conditions. We've offered community presentations about dementia, most recently at Casa del Mare in Kenosha.Vikki Merins, RN, Home Care Supervisor at Society's Assets and I offered practical tips and tools for family caregivers. We addressed the most devastating part of dementia - - declining brain function affecting short-term memory. Without that ability, a person can't learn, think, or problem solve. There can also be personality changes, mood swings, and problem behaviors. Communicating becomes difficult, and judgement impaired. There may be hallucinations or changes in the senses. When a friend or family member recognizes one or more of these symptoms in their loved one, a visit to the doctor is in order. There are also free screenings offered by community agencies. I'm trained to provide those. The screening can take place in our office or at your home. Contact me at (262) 637-9128 or at twilcox@societysassets.org  

Despite all this, persons with dementia can live in their homes as long as safety measures are in place. Remove tripping hazards, and keep walkways well-lit. Assess the home, locking or disguising hazardous areas and keeping medications safe. Technology can help you. . . keep track of all the little things, stay in (or out of) the driver's seat, be safe in the bathroom, stay calm while weathering the storm. Society's Assets has a try out program that loans out devices and equipment that can help. Call us. It doesn't cost anything and there are lots of people here that can help individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Start with a focus on the strengths and abilities that remain. Even make a list. Have realistic expectations. Remember that a person with dementia doesn't always understand what you say, but they know how you make them feel.