A diagnosis of dementia can be overwhelming, bringing a wave of emotions and uncertainty for both the person diagnosed and their loved ones.
Perhaps you have noticed problems for a while and spoken to a doctor, perhaps you suspect cognitive decline, or perhaps you have had neuropsychological testing and received a diagnosis of dementia. As a psychologist with a specialty in assessment of cognitive change and capacity in aging, I've witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs people face on this journey. While there's no cure for dementia, there are strategies to maintain quality of life, maximize independence, and create a supportive environment.
Here are some key tips to navigate this path:
1. Educate Yourself:
Knowledge is power. Familiarize yourself with the specific type of dementia diagnosed. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor or psychologist, if you have one. Resources like the Alzheimer's Association, the National Institute on Aging, and dementia-specific support groups can provide valuable information about its progression, available treatments, and ways people cope. It’s also important to remember that there are many types of dementia, and while they all come with difficulties, they also have unique features that are important to understand so you can navigate your situation. For example, some dementias can involve personality changes or symptoms like hallucinations. These types of symptoms can be very confusing and scary, so preparing yourself and your family for these types of possibilities can make it easier to understand what’s going on.
2. Consider Neuropsych Testing:
If you haven’t had neuropsychological evaluation as part of your dementia diagnosis, it is worth considering, especially if you are in the early stages of cognitive change. This testing can give you, your loved ones, and your medical providers information about your strengths and areas where you need more support, as well as recommendations for ways to manage going forward based on your cognitive profile.
3. Embrace Open Communication:
An open and honest dialogue is crucial. Discuss the diagnosis with your loved ones, including your wishes and concerns regarding care and decision-making. Talk to your doctor about treatment options, potential side effects, and future planning. Communication empowers everyone involved to navigate the journey together.
4. Prioritize Brain Health:
Just because you have dementia doesn't mean your brain can't be stimulated, or that you should give up trying to maintain your brain health. Engage in activities that keep your mind active, such as reading, puzzles, playing games, or learning a new skill.
5. Maintain Physical Activity:
Regular exercise is vital for both physical and cognitive health. Aim for moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Try to keep the mindset that any movement that you enjoy is good for you; exercise should not be a punishment! Walking, swimming, dancing, biking on a stationary or hand bike, tai chi, or gentle/chair yoga are excellent options. Exercise can be adapted to any level of physical ability, and if you need help finding adaptive exercises, you can search online or find a disability-knowledgeable trainer, a kineosiotherapist, or a disability-friendly gym to support your physical activity. Exercise promotes blood flow to the brain, which can help maintain cognitive function. This is the number one most important thing any of us can do to preserve brain health over our lifetimes!
6. Structure and Routine are Key:
Create a consistent daily routine that provides structure and predictability. This can include regular mealtimes, sleep schedules, and established times for medications and activities. I have worked with many folks with dementia who are able to maintain independence well into the illness because they have a routine and don’t have to adapt to new circumstances. Change is harder on a vulnerable brain, so structure and routines can also reduce distress when dealing with dementia.
7. Maximize Independence While Balancing Safety:
As much as possible, maintain independence. Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps and ask for assistance and support as needed. For example, perhaps managing money has become too overwhelming and you’ve been late on a few bills; asking an adult child you trust to become a joint signer on your bank account might allow them to set up auto pay for bills and help you when you need it, but still give you independence in accessing your own funds. It’s also important to be honest with yourself and your family if you realize there are ways you can’t be independent anymore. For example, driving is a tough one for most people to give up, especially in Los Angeles, where we are so dependent on our cars. But if you’ve got a diagnosis of dementia, or you’ve had a few fender benders or “close calls” while driving lately, it’s likely time to come up with an alternate plan and let go of the keys.
8. Adapt the Environment:
Make your environment dementia-friendly. Install safety features like grab bars in bathrooms, bright lighting, and clear walkways. Label cabinets and drawers for easy organization. Remove clutter that might cause confusion. Again, asking for help here is a good idea, as organizing your space can be overwhelming.
9. Focus on Strengths:
While dementia forces us to acknowledge cognitive limitations, celebrate your strengths and abilities as well. Use your existing skills and interests to engage in things you enjoy, or to adapt new ways of doing things you used to enjoy. This fosters a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem.
10. Engage in Social Activities:
Stay connected to loved ones and participate in social activities. Social interaction helps maintain cognitive function and provides a sense of belonging. Explore volunteer opportunities, attend social events, call friends and family, or engage in hobbies that bring joy.
11. Seek Professional Support:
Don't hesitate to seek professional help from psychologists, therapists, or social workers. They can provide emotional support, guidance on coping strategies, and help manage behavioral changes associated with dementia. This is an incredibly difficult diagnosis that most of us are afraid of; there is no shame in talking to a professional about grieving and coping.
12. Join a Support Group:
Connecting with others facing similar challenges can be empowering. Support groups offer a safe space to share experiences, learn from each other, and find emotional support. These can be great for people with dementia in the early stages, and also for family members and caregivers.
13. Plan Ahead:
Sometimes when we are faced with news of a life-altering diagnosis, our initial reaction is to avoid thinking about it. It’s understandable to experience shock, grief, and even denial. But it’s crucial to discuss the diagnosis and prognosis with loved ones so that you can plan together for the future.
Begin Therapy for Older Adults in Los Angeles, CA
The more you express your wishes and make arrangements now, the easier things will be down the road for you and your loved ones. You deserve to have the best support structures when facing potential changes like this, and Dr. Reger is happy to help offer support with services like dementia testing. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:
Contact (424) 262-1925 to schedule your appointment
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OFFERED BY DR. REGER IN LOS ANGELES, CA
Support for older adults and dementia testing aren’t the only services I offer. I’m happy to offer multiple neuropsychological and psychological assessments. Other assessments include pre-surgical assessments and med-legal evaluations. In addition to evaluations, I also provide capacity assessments, individual therapy, and mental health consultations and presentations. Visit my blog for more helpful support today!