Read any article on dementia and it advises of the increased number of people being diagnosed with dementia, of how our ageing population is contributing towards the increase (as we are living longer, the chance of getting it increases) and how it is fast becoming a leading cause of death. It can make for grim reading so for anyone who receives a diagnosis of dementia for themselves or for a parent, it can be a worrying time – wondering what the future holds, worrying if entry to a nursing home might be happening sooner rather than later, worrying about losing independence and being a burden.
Dementia in the Future
Governments are investing more in medical research. We already know that keeping one’s mind active and keeping physically fit can certainly help in preventing or delaying the onset of dementia.
Governments are also investing money in ensuring that communities are receiving training in how to help those with dementia. For example, shop assistants will know how to help anyone that seems confused or will understand that waiting patiently and offering assistance will make someone with early dementia feel much more comfortable. They will know how to act if someone seems very confused, helping rather than inadvertedly making the situation worse. It all leads to a more understanding society.
The onset of dementia can actually be quite slow following diagnosis. It is very possible for people to stay living in their own homes, even if living on their own, with the help of a daily carer. Many of our carers look after clients with some degree of dementia and spend an hour a day with them, helping them with personal care, reminding them to take medication, chatting, doing some light housework or meal preparation.This means that most people maintain their skills and independence for longer. Just one hour of help per day can mean a person can live independently in their own home, surrounded by their favourite things and comforts and within their own community, for many years. Each person is affected differently and each client will receive a quarterly review so that care can be adjusted as necessary. Many of our clients stay in their own homes with the help of the same carers for many years – to the extent that the carers feel like one of the family.
A daughter writes about her father’s move into a nursing home after a long time being cared for at home. He has dementia. She recently attended a conference and found that learning about recent research, how communities and businesses are changing their designs in order to reduce confusion (e.g. Bristol Airport is to be the country’s first dementia friendly airport) and how those diagnosed with early onset dementia are tackling it head on. It’s an inspiring post and emphasises that there is quality of life after such a diagnosis.
Our staff will answer any of your questions truthfully and knowledgeably. It is our wish to provide loved ones with the highest quality of care, with the utmost respect and dignity, and all within the comfort of their own homes.
If you would like to talk to us about requiring care for a parent in the future, you can contact us at the nearest office to your location.
