Spotlight on Dementia
Dementia care is becoming a growing challenge for our society. Research by the Alzheimer’s Society says that ‘One in three of us born in the UK today will go on to develop dementia in our lifetime, and there will be one million people living with dementia by 2025’.
What is dementia? Dementia is more than memory loss. It is a term used to describe progressive neurological conditions. Symptoms include memory loss, changes to thinking speed, language loss, inconsistent moods and behaviour, difficulty with understanding and judgement, decreased mobility and difficulty with personal care and daily activities.
With limited treatments available, people affected by dementia rely predominantly on social care. Many find the support of homecare providers invaluable as they ease the care burden on the families of sufferers as well as being able to offer the consistency of specialist care needed.
Kelly Shaw of Heydays Care & Support says, “We advise trying to maintain a continuity of care, having just one or two familiar and trusted people doing the caring and by keeping to a routine. This helps reduce any unnecessary stress or anxiety.”
Some of our key tips for caring for someone with dementia include:
- Clear, gentle and patient communication
- Recognise triggers for difficult behaviour and stay calm
- Keep the same routine and structure
- Keep up their social connections, hobbies and interests
- Ensure a nutritious diet
- Evaluate support needs regularly and ask for help when required
Caring for loved ones with dementia can be difficult. If you would like advice on any aspect of dementia care, please contact our team at Heydays on 015395 52548 or 01229 808023.