Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when Alzheimer’s or dementia is detected:
1. Recognizing the early signs
The first step in addressing dementia is recognizing the early symptoms. Some common signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia include:
- Memory loss, especially forgetting recent events or important information.
- Difficulty with language, such as struggling to find the right words.
- Confusion about time and place.
- Difficulty making decisions or solving problems.
- Changes in mood, behavior, or personality.
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to seek medical advice early on. While memory loss can sometimes be a normal part of aging, it’s better to investigate these symptoms as soon as possible.
2. Consult a GP or specialist
If Alzheimer’s or dementia is suspected, the next step is to consult a healthcare professional. In the UK, start with your GP (General Practitioner), who can conduct an initial assessment and rule out other conditions that could be causing similar symptoms (such as depression, vitamin deficiencies, or thyroid problems).
Your GP may refer you to a memory clinic or a specialist, such as a neurologist or geriatrician, for a more thorough evaluation. This process will likely include:
- A medical history review.
- Cognitive tests to assess memory, language, and problem-solving skills.
- Brain imaging (such as an MRI or CT scan) to check for brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s.
- Blood tests to rule out other potential causes of symptoms.
Once a diagnosis is made, your healthcare team will develop a plan for managing the condition.
3. Understanding the diagnosis
After receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, it’s vital to take time to understand the condition. Request a clear explanation from the doctor about the type of dementia diagnosed, the stage of the disease, and what to expect as it progresses. This is a crucial time to ask questions, such as:
- What treatment options are available?
- How fast is the disease likely to progress?
- What lifestyle changes can help manage the condition?
- What resources are available for support?
Educating yourself about Alzheimer’s helps you make informed decisions about care, treatment, and planning for the future.
4. Planning for treatment and care
Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, certain treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Your healthcare provider may recommend:
- Medications: like cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine) or memantine may be prescribed to slow cognitive decline and help with memory and thinking.
- Non-medication treatments: These include cognitive stimulation therapy, which engages the brain through puzzles, word games, and memory exercises, as well as lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and social engagement.
- Regular check-ups: Ongoing medical evaluations will help monitor the progression of dementia and adjust treatment as needed.
Additionally, it’s important to start considering care options early. Dementia will progress over time, and as it does, the individual may need more support with daily activities. Options to consider include:
- In-home care: Hiring a carer to assist with tasks such as bathing, meal preparation, and medication management.
- Assisted living or memory care facilities: These specialized homes provide 24-hour care for people with dementia.
- Respite care: Temporary relief for family carers, allowing them time off while ensuring the person with dementia is well cared for.
5. Legal and Financial planning
A dementia diagnosis means it’s time to start thinking about the future, particularly when it comes to legal and financial matters. Important steps include:
- Creating a Power of Attorney (PoA): This legal document allows a trusted person (or people) to make decisions about health care and finances if the person with dementia becomes unable to make decisions themselves. There are two types of PoA in the UK: one for health and welfare, and one for property and financial affairs.
- Setting up an Advance Decision (Living Will): This document outlines the person’s wishes regarding medical treatment should they become unable to communicate their preferences in the future.
- Reviewing financial resources: Dementia care can be costly. It’s a good idea to review savings, insurance, and benefits to ensure there are sufficient resources to cover care costs.
Consulting a solicitor who specializes in elder law or working with a financial planner can help ensure that everything is in order.
6. Building a support network
Caring for someone with dementia can be physically and emotionally demanding, so it’s crucial to have a support network in place. Key steps include:
- Contacting dementia charities: These organizations offer valuable resources, including helplines, support groups, and informational materials. Please don´t hesitate to contact with us, Sisters Hospitallers CIO, in case you need more information or support.
- Joining a caregiver support group: Sharing experiences with others who are going through similar challenges can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide practical advice.
- Involving family and friends: Discuss the diagnosis openly with family and close friends, so they can offer emotional and practical support.
It’s also important to stay connected with healthcare professionals and social workers who can guide you through accessing services such as respite care, community-based support, and care needs assessments.
7. Adapting the home environment
As dementia progresses, it may become harder for the person to navigate their surroundings safely. Small modifications to the home can help create a dementia-friendly environment that promotes independence and reduces risks. Some changes to consider include:
- Labeling doors, cupboards, and appliances to help with orientation and reduce confusion.
- Installing safety devices, such as grab bars in bathrooms, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Removing trip hazards like rugs and clutter to prevent falls.
- Using technology: GPS trackers or apps that alert family members if the person with dementia leaves the home unsupervised can provide peace of mind.
8. Looking after the caregiver
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be rewarding but also exhausting. It’s important that caregivers take care of their own health and well-being, too. This includes:
- Taking regular breaks and using respite care when needed.
- Seeking emotional support from friends, family, or a professional counselor.
- Maintaining physical health through exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate rest.
- Accessing caregiver support services, such as those offered by Alzheimer’s Society or Carers UK.
