Dementia is a memory loss condition that can affect the quality of life we enjoy. Often, the condition progresses over time, so it may not be very noticeable at first. However, at some point, the impact of the medical condition begins to affect the quality of life that your loved one is living. So, many people wonder how to break the news to their loved ones after a dementia diagnosis. Here is what you need to know about this issue.
Understanding Dementia
Dementia is characterized by progressive memory loss. While we all forget some things at some point, dementia and other memory loss conditions cause memory loss problems to the point that it affects our everyday life. For example, people suffering from dementia may be unable to run shopping errands on their own at some point, they may not be able to remember their way home, and so on. These memory problems can make it impossible for your loved one who lives independently and may require assistance with everyday functions. For example, if they are on medication for other conditions, they may forget to take their daily medicine, which can affect their physical health.
This deterioration of memory functions and the subsequent challenges that come with it is one of the reasons why it is important to tell family members after a dementia diagnosis. This way, you can get the help you require, and family members are also in a position t understand what is happening if they see some of the behavior patterns associated with this condition.
Get All The Information First
If you have just received a dementia diagnosis, the first thing is to understand what this means for you and your family members. Depending on the magnitude of the problem, you may need to go for a memory care program to help you live more independently with the condition. Your doctor will probably tell you everything you need about the condition. However, it also helps to gather more information from other sources, such as the internet.
Be Clear About The Implications
As human beings, we are often driven by a desire to protect our loved ones. Some people prefer to play down a dementia diagnosis because they don’t want to alarm their family members. While this is certainly very doable, it may have some unintended consequences. For example, by playing down the diagnosis, family members may not understand that they may need to play a role in assisting you in managing the condition. On the other hand, let them understand that it is a condition that can be managed and that you can still enjoy every day of your life with the right care.
Get Help If Possible
After you speak to your family about your diagnosis, many of them may offer to help in any way they can. You should be open to accepting help as it is their way of showing that they care about you. You can always discuss with them how they can assist you. For example, they can research memory care programs and retirement living communities where you can get the help you need.
