Early stage dementia symptoms can be subtle and difficult to notice, but they can have a significant impact on a person’s daily life. some of the most common early symptoms include:
- Memory loss: This is often the most noticeable symptom of dementia, and it can involve forgetting recent events, conversations, or names.
- Difficulty concentrating: People with dementia may have trouble paying attention to tasks or following conversations
- Problems with language: They may have difficulty finding the right words, or they may repeat themselves frequently.
- Disorientation: They may become lost in familiar places, or they may have trouble understanding where they are or what day it is.
- Poor judgement: They may make impulsive or unwise decisions.
- Personality or behaviour changes: They may become more withdrawn, irritable, or anxious.
To help, families and caregivers can do things like fun memory activities during this phase. Caregivers and families play a crucial role by incorporating cognitive stimulation activities such as puzzles, memory games, and engaging conversations. Facilitating social opportunities, such as group activities or outings, not only maintains a sense of normality but also preserves interpersonal connections.
Simultaneously, ensuring emotional support through avenues like support groups, counselling, or open family communication can be integral to supporting someone. Embracing a comprehensive approach in the early stages significantly contributes to the wellbeing and quality of life for those navigating dementia care.
In the middle stage of dementia, notable changes become more apparent, requiring caregivers and families to adapt their support approach.
Behavioural changes, such as fluctuations in mood and increased confusion, may pose new challenges. Cognitive decline becomes more pronounced, impacting memory and decision-making. Everyday tasks can become difficult, adding to the frustration.
Caregivers and families can play a vital role in supporting people with middle stage dementia by implementing individualised behavioural interventions and adaptive strategies for daily living such as:
- Redirection: When someone is engaged in an undesirable behaviour, redirecting their attention to a more appropriate activity can help to reduce the frequency of the unwanted behaviour.
- Using visual cues: Pictures, symbols, and other visual cues can help the person to remember and follow routines.
- Simple instructions: Breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can make them easier for the person to understand and complete.
- Labelling objects and areas of the home: This can help the person to orient themselves and find what they need more easily.
In the late stage of dementia, individuals face significant physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Caregivers play a pivotal role in providing specialised care and support.
Severe cognitive decline impacts memory, communication, and overall cognitive function physical decline affects mobility and basic activities of daily living. Specialised care is often necessary to address both the physical and emotional aspects of the individual’s needs.
Caregivers and families may consider palliative care to ensure comfort and dignity in the face of declining health. Supporting families is paramount, offering practical assistance and emotional support as they navigate the challenging journey of witnessing their loved one’s progression.
The late stage of dementia requires a compassionate and comprehensive approach, recognising the personal needs of individuals and their families during this challenging phase.
