Home Care in Las Vegas NV
Dementia, as defined by Merriam-Webster’s Learner’s Dictionary is a mental illness that causes someone to be unable to think clearly or to understand what is real and what is not real. The stages run from mild forgetfulness to loss of specific functions such as the ability to speak or walk. This does not mean that, if a loved one has put their car keys in the freezer or can’t remember the post man’s name, they have dementia. Memory loss can also be caused by vitamin deficiencies, insomnia, or certain medications. Antidepressants, painkillers and some that address the issues of anxiety are just a few of the drugs that carry memory loss as a potential side effect. Chronic stress can also take its toll, as anyone with a newborn baby, or puppy for that matter, can testify.
In order to be diagnosed with dementia, a person must have two of the following five symptoms: memory loss, difficulty communicating, loss of concentration, inability to reason or changes in vision. If a loved one seems to be challenged in those areas, it’s a good idea to set up an appointment with their doctor. While some dementia is progressive, there are those types that can be treated.
The Diagnosis has been Made – Now What?
Just as children put on five hats at one time, wear their diapers on their heads, have sudden angry outbursts for no apparent reason, or open the door and run out into the street, the person with dementia can run the gamut of odd behavior to dangerous conduct. This is when the boundaries of youth are revisited and choosing which battles to enter is of paramount importance. If the activity or conduct does not have the potential to injure themselves or another, it might be best to see the humor and let it pass. As challenging as this time may be, there are always gifts to be found. As life lesson 101 states: To everything taken away, something is given back. Where once was stern reproach is now child-like wonder. Where once was a workaholic is now a playful squanderer of time. The Unseen Gifts of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia by Wendy Chanampa and Playfulness and Dementia by John Killick and Kate Allan are two resources specific to the idea of seeing the good in what could be considered a tragedy.
Call for Help
While taking the lighter approach to what could be considered a devastating illness will have its rewards for both parties, it’s clear that a parent or loved one with dementia is going to need some extra care. Stress and the feeling of being overwhelmed do little to help the caregiver’s ability to view potential challenges as part of the miracle of human kind. To this end, taking time to charge those batteries is of utmost importance. A senior care provider can step in and give a hand when family or friends need a “time out.” Not only will they assist with the daily activities of living, they will also provide mental stimulation and companionship, two very important aspects of life for those with or without the diagnosis of dementia.
Source
https://www.caregiver.org/caregivers-guide-understanding-dementia-behaviors
http://www.alzheimers.net/1-6-15-new-approaches-difficult-behaviors/
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING IN-HOME CARE IN LAS VEGAS, NV, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE. CALL TODAY 702-800-4616.