When a loved one has dementia, they may struggle to recognize you, especially as the disease progresses. You may feel confused, hurt, or sad when they fail to recognize you. However, do note that there are many reasons why a loved one with dementia does not recognize you. Read on to learn more and what you can do when the situation arises. Here are some reasons why your loved one does not recognize you.
Memory Loss
Some reason If your loved ones are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, your loved ones’ brains may become damaged. This may cause a decline in their memory. Their ability to remember events, names, and even recognize faces may become impaired. This may result in them not recognizing you.
Side Effect of Medication
If your loved one with dementia suddenly fails to recognize you, he or she may be suffering from a medication that causes them to be delirious. They may also be suffering from an infection.
Loss of Vision
People suffering from dementia may suffer from a significant decline in vision. Do check if they are unable to see well enough to recognize you.
You may be wondering how to act when a loved one with dementia doesn’t recognize you. Here are some tips.
Acknowledge Your Loved One’s Cognitive Decline
If your loved ones do not recognize you due to memory loss, do let yourself grieve.
Remind Them of Who You Are
If you have not seen your loved one for some time, they may forget who you are. In this case, you can just remind them if they are struggling to remember who you are.
Remind Yourself That it’s The Disease That Causes Them to Forget
When they forget your name, but remember other people’s names, you may feel hurt. However, do note that it is merely the disease that causes them to forget.
Distract Your Loved Ones If They Forget Who You Are
If your loved ones forget who you are, you can try to distract them. This will help them to decrease their worries.
Show Your Loved Ones Various Videos And Photos
If they forget who you are, you may want to show them various videos and photos. This may help them to jog their memory too.
Seek Medical Help
If your loved one starts to feel very distressed when they fail to recognize others, do try to seek medical help. There are medications that can help reduce anxiety and improve their quality of life.
With these six tips, you can learn how to appropriately react when your loved one with dementia fail to recognize you. However, we at TerraBella Spartanburg do understand how it may be a struggle for you and your loved ones when they are suffering from dementia. If you require more assistance, we TerraBella Spartanburg Memory Care will always be willing to help you find ways to best care for your loved ones. With personalized care for your loved ones at every moment, you can be assured that your loved ones can enjoy their life in full even in their fight against dementia.
