Dementia is one of the most dreaded diseases of our time and if your loved one is showing signs it can be heart-wrenching for the whole family. Unfortunately, we do not often get to know about these conditions in advance because they progress so slowly. By the time a loved one is showing signs of dementia, the signs may already be quite advanced. If this is happening to you or a loved one, then you need to get started as soon as possible. You must understand just what to do so that you do not lose your loved one to this dreaded disease without even knowing it.
Dementia is a degenerative disease that gradually destroys the functions of the brain and causes memory loss, poor judgment, and even social isolation. It is believed that the reason why dementia affects so many people is that their loved ones did not provide the right type of care. Therefore, if your loved one is showing symptoms of dementia then you need to act sooner rather than later. Providing support for your loved ones when they are beginning to experience the effects of dementia may help slow down the progression of the condition.
It is always best to take immediate action when you think your loved one may be having difficulties with memory or other cognitive function. The earlier you begin to treat dementia, the more likely it is that you will be able to keep them out of the early stages of the disease. The first thing you want to do when you suspect that your loved one is beginning to show signs of dementia is to visit the doctor for a complete physical exam. This will help to determine whether there are any problems with the patient’s health that could be causing dementia. If there is a problem, then you will be able to address the issue and possibly treat the disease.
Once you have identified that your loved one is experiencing memory loss and other symptoms, the next thing you want to do is make an appointment with a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist will be able to help rule out the possibility that your loved one is simply experiencing mild cognitive dysfunction. If the psychiatrist determines that the symptoms of dementia are present, they can recommend medication to alleviate the signs and improve overall mental health.
The last thing you want to do when you suspect your loved one may be having issues with memory loss or dementia is to ignore that information. If your loved one is feeling lonely and isolated, then you need to make sure they know that they are loved and that they are safe. Try to find some support groups for loved ones who are experiencing the effects of dementia. You can also talk with your loved one’s doctor about getting a prescription for neuroleptic, anti-amnesia drugs, or olanzapine to help them get through the early stages. These drugs are relatively safe for loved ones to take until they are much older, which is why it is important to talk to your doctor first.
As you can see, there are many steps you can take if you suspect your loved one is showing signs of dementia. You do not have to allow the condition to worsen, which it can do when treated late in life. By being proactive, taking care of yourself, and developing support groups for your loved one, you can keep the progression of dementia at bay. Your loved one’s mental health is extremely important, so it is important to treat the problem as soon as possible. Early detection of dementia significantly reduces the number of years wasted following diagnosis. With proper medical care and constant support, your loved one can enjoy a quality life beyond dementia.
