Reasons for Dementia Caregivers to Avoid Being in Denial

Risks of Refusing to Accept a Loved One’s Dementia Diagnosis

By 9  am On

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A dementia diagnosis is never easy to accept. While it’s common to feel overwhelmed by fears that a senior loved one may change, it’s important to remember there are many treatments available that can ease dementia symptoms. Learning to accept a loved one’s dementia is also critical for avoiding the following dangers that can be prevented with prompt attention and care. 

 

Delayed Professional Help

Often, a spouse or child notices signs that a loved one has dementia, such as memory lapses or confusion, but attempts to make up for it by taking on more responsibility. However, this often leads to a family caregiver eventually being unable to provide all the support his or her loved one needs. It can delay diagnosis and treatment by a trained physician and prevent the family from finding a home care agency that can provide additional help. 

If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of elder care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

 

Accidents

As dementia progresses, the risk of injuries due to accidents increases. Car accidents, forgetting to turn the stove off, and other mishaps can be serious for seniors with memory loss. Additionally, confusion can lead to a senior wandering away from home, and those who cannot recall their personal information are at greater risk for harm. 

Caring for seniors with dementia can be challenging for family caregivers. Luckily, there is dementia care Columbia families can rely on. Professional dementia caregivers help seniors with dementia stay safe and comfortable at home by preventing wandering, providing cognitive stimulation, and assisting with household chores. 

 

Family Conflicts

When one person is in denial, it can affect the entire family. One reason for this is that conflicts can arise among family caregivers about how they handle their loved one’s daily routine. Additionally, those who deny a dementia diagnosis may force other family members to shoulder the entire burden of attending medical appointments and ensuring their loved one’s safety. 

 

Missed Opportunities to Connect

Having a loved one with dementia often means learning how to communicate and connect in a new way. This is often a process that requires time and support from others who understand how to relate to seniors living with dementia. As you begin to accept your loved one’s condition, you can begin building a relationship that focuses on enjoying the good times while safeguarding your loved one’s health. 

One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide home care. Columbia families can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. Call us today to talk to one of our compassionate Care Managers about our high-quality home care services.