subject: Dealing With Dementia - A Practical Guide For Carers [print this page] As most carers will come to realise, dealing with Dementia or Alzheimer's can involve felling totally stressed out and can often leave you feeling defeated and frustrated. The challenges can be many but the more you can educate yourself, the better chance you will have of caring for yourself while at the same time caring for the dementia sufferer.
Memory, behavior, language, judgment and the thinking process are all affected by dementia, a form of Alzheimer's disease. Some statistics predict that by the year 2021, there will be over a million people suffering from dementia. There is a good chance that you know, or have known, someone diagnosed with the disease. Perhaps you have gone through the enormously painful process of watching a loved one progress through the stages of this debilitating illness.
Educate Yourself.
With the right Information, you can regain control by knowing how to respond to such uncontrollable circumstances. It is common for caregivers to feel irritation and exasperation with their patient, especially when attempting to carry out what used to be a normal daily activity, such as dressing, eating or bathing. Behaviors such as asking the same question repeatedly and wandering away can add to the aggravation and even take it to a dangerous level, for both you and your patient.
Avoid extreme frustration by learning the warning signs.
Headaches
Feeling short of breath
Experiencing chest pains
Experiencing cramping of the stomach
An increase in alcohol consumption or smoking
Eating compulsively
Feeling impatient and having the need to strike out
If you are getting to the point that you feel the frustration to such an extreme that you exhibit one or more of the examples above, you may be reaching a dangerous point that can cause you physical harm. After you recognize a warning sign, it is important to respond in an immediate and controlled manner.
Calm Your Body and Your Mind.
Try stepping away from the situation to regain your composure and your patience. Take a walk, call a friend or take some time out for a warm bath. Meditation may also help.
It Is Vital That You Know There Is Hope --You Are Not Alone.
A network that consists of friends, family members, co-workers and health care providers can provide the support you and your patient will need as you cope with the disease, but those who have actually dealt with the illness are an invaluable asset. They can share tips and advice on what they experienced and how they reacted to various situations, as well as examples of coping methods and when to consider outside care options.
Knowing What To Expect Will Help You When Dealing With Dementia.
With the right information, you can feel more confident that you can provide your patient with the best care and quality of life possible. You can manage your own thoughts and feelings and avoid dangerous, extreme frustrations by recognizing what you can and cannot control and how to respond in the healthiest manner.
Being a caregiver is not easy and can be draining, emotionally and physically. Educating yourself, learning the early signs of the disease, and techniques to employ during each stage will give you the tools to make the right decisions to protect yourself while you care for the sufferer in your life.
