Eastlife Spring 2020

HEALTH
10 TIPS TO HELP
Support
Dementia
Written by Joanne Monaghan,
Head of care & nursing at Askham Village Community
www.askhamvillagecommunity.com
Dementia is one of the biggest health challenges of our time
and there are growing numbers of us coming into contact with
people who suffer with dementia on a regular basis. We all have
a responsibility to ourselves and to our loved ones to prepare
effectively and be ready for the circumstance in which dementia
enters our lives.
1. Early Diagnosis
As soon as a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it’s important
to act swiftly to ensure they receive the right support going
forward. Begin to seek advice from those close to you who might
be going through the same thing. There’s also a lot of support
available in the form of local charities and support groups, which
are easily found online or in GP surgeries.
2. Planning
It can be a sensitive subject and not the nicest of things to do, but
it’s very important that you plan ahead in the early stages for all
eventualities. Make sure your loved one has a power of attorney
so you both know who will make decisions on their behalf if they
are unable to make them for themselves. It’s also worth ensuring
they have a current will in place.
3. Communication
Communicate with your loved ones on what they have planned
and what they want for the future and support them in backing
this up with the appropriate documentation. Make sure everything
agreed is in physical form, as well as verbal, and checked and
approved by the right people.
4. Know the Person
It’s paramount you get to know and frequently remind yourself of
your loved ones likes, dislikes, daily habits, previous careers, and
interests throughout their life. The more insight gained, the easier
it’ll be to communicate, support and understand the person so
you can see beyond their progressive condition.
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