Dementia can be described as a cognitive impairment in a number of brain functioning. It can be characterized with neurologic problems like persistent memory loss, decreased attention span, speech impairment and decrease in problem solving capabilities. Normally, dementia is diagnosed to a person when they exhibit these manifestations for six months or more. If the cognitive impairment have only been noted for a couple of weeks and have been relieved, this can only be called as delirium. As the disease progresses, the person may become disoriented and would need help in caring for themselves. This may lead to cause problems for the family members around them. Both the individual and his family will be coping with dementia.
The sudden change in the behavior of a family member may cause you to become frustrated. Often times when you are adjusting to the changes, you may not be able to grasps directly that the person is sick. The changes in their behavior is brought about by their condition and isn’t their fault. You may be required to repeat things over and over again, as people afflicted with dementia tend to forget things. This situation may become very irritating, but you need to know that this is part of their disease. They are the still the people you loved before, but they are now sick. They can’t adjust to us because of their condition so we must adjust to their condition.
If you are leaving with your parent or your spouse who is suffering from dementia, it is very important to know that the emotion you display when they are there affects them too. There may be times when you get frustrated and angry with them, as much as you can, don’t show it in front of them. When they see you angry, it affects them too. They can become more bewildered as they won’t know why you are angry. During the times that you feel that you’re about to have an outburst, try going to another room or go outside. Cool down for a moment, and then you can deal with them again. This way your negative emotions will not affect them as well.
Showing that you are calm in front of them can help them to feel calm as well. This may help them to be more tranquil. Trying to be calm in dealing with them allows you to look into their condition, and empathize how they mat be feeling. If you feel frustrated because you can’t understand them, they feel much worse. They can’t remember anything. They don’t know the reasons why they are doing things like putting on their clothes, combing their hair and the likes. They are confused 24/7, making it very difficult for them as it is for you.
Trying to understand the situation of your loved ones who are suffering with dementia can help you adjust. Coping with dementia can be easier if you have adjusted or adjusting well with their behavior. They are still the family that you have loved, but they are just sick.
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