A dementia diagnosis is life-changing for the person with the disease and their loved ones, especially their partner. When you and your other half talked about growing older, you might have discussed relaxing days out, fun vacations, and a comfortable retirement. Yet, you might never have envisaged them falling ill and potentially becoming their carer.
Unfortunately, a dementia diagnosis may alter some of your plans for aging. However, it is still possible to enjoy a good quality of life during the early stages of the disease. However, you must be prepared for any changes as it progresses. Continue reading to learn how to care for a spouse with dementia.
Don’t Reject Help
Despite believing it is your responsibility to care for your partner following a dementia diagnosis, you must not reject any help offered to you both. There is no reason to go it alone, as the support of your family and friends could prove invaluable throughout every stage of the disease. Allow loved ones to perform errands or help with household chores to remove some pressure on your shoulders. Also, relatives might be more than happy to provide your other half with some company, which will provide an ideal opportunity for you to take a well-deserved break to lower your stress levels.
Avoid Correcting Your Partner
There will be moments when your partner gets details wrong, can’t remember a date, or asks to go home when sitting in the comfort of their living room. Despite feeling tempted to correct them, you must avoid doing so to avoid frustration and upset. Tell them you will leave soon rather than arguing back if they demand to go home. It will decrease further confusion while ensuring they remain happy and calm.
Consider Memory Care
As difficult as it may feel, there may come a day when you realize you can no longer provide your partner with the care they need at home. Accepting they require around-the-clock care and protection likely isn’t easy, but it is often the best option for people with mild to advanced dementia. By choosing award-winning memory care in Fort Lauderdale, your other half will have access to a licensed nurse 24 hours per day, and they will receive assistance with daily living, medication management, and physical, speech, and occupational therapy. Also, you could move into this assisted living facility as it caters to different care needs, meaning you will be a short distance away from your partner.
Remind Yourself It’s a Disease
As the disease progresses, your partner’s behavior and personality might change. For instance, they might make hurtful comments, lash out, or become overly emotional. As painful as their words and actions might be at times, you must remember it is the disease that’s to blame and not your partner. If you remind yourself that it’s the disease causing the negative behaviors, you’ll feel less hurt when their emotions spiral. By doing so, you will feel mentally prepared for any changes to their personality.
