When an elderly loved one with dementia is in denial over the diagnosis, it makes it more challenging for you to ensure your family member receives appropriate treatment and care. It also makes it difficult for everyone involved to prepare for future challenges. These five tips can make it easier to talk to your loved one about the diagnosis.
1. Call a Family Meeting
Schedule a meeting for family members and close friends after your loved one’s dementia diagnosis. If you present a united front in an atmosphere of loving compassion, your elderly parent may be more likely to accept the situation. However, be mindful this meeting might come across as an intervention and put your loved one on the defensive.
Dementia is just one of the many health issues older adults are susceptible to. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior care. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
2. Share Important Information
Denial sometimes comes to an end when a senior is presented with enough convincing evidence that a problem exists. Collect and share reading material about dementia, current treatment options, and dementia care with your loved one, and invite him or her to ask questions. However, make sure you give your family member time to process the information.
3. Offer Reassurance
Fear is the primary reason for a senior to deny a dementia diagnosis. You can allay your loved one’s fears by offering reassurance that you’ll be there to help. Encourage your loved one to make the most of each moment by accepting the loving assistance of friends and family.
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4. Avoid Arguments
Even during its early stages, dementia can interfere with a senior’s ability to understand and handle the diagnosis. Trying to convince your loved one to use logic and reason to face facts can be self-defeating. Expressions of love and concern are usually more effective than arguments.
5. Take Small Steps
Instead of pressing for an admission of mental impairment, focus on getting your older parent to accept offers of help. You can volunteer to run errands, mail bills, and handle the week’s grocery shopping. You can also encourage your loved one to consider hiring a caregiver, who can help with errands, cooking, and light cleaning. Your loved one will find it easier to accept a dementia diagnosis knowing he or she won’t have to face the future alone.
Caring for a senior with dementia can be challenging for family caregivers. Luckily, there is dementia care Montgomery families can rely on. Professional dementia caregivers help seniors with dementia stay safe and comfortable at home by preventing wandering, providing cognitive stimulation, and assisting with household chores. Call Home Care Assistance today at (334) 593-3988 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.