Understanding Dementia: The Total Journey
Our caregivers never stop learning. That’s why we hosted Lilly Adrian to lead our team in a learning session at our Dallas office recently.
Adrian is a Memory Care Programming Consultant, Trainer, and Certified Dementia Care Specialist. She shared invaluable insights, giving our caregivers and staff a deeper understanding of dementia, and offered guidance on how caregivers can best support those living with dementia.
Promoting Autonomy
People with dementia may not be able to live alone without help, Adrian said, but it’s still critical encourage and support their independence as much as possible. She gave examples of how caregivers can provide clients with choices – while limiting the number of options, to prevent decision fatigue. This helps maintain their sense of autonomy.
She also highlighted three crucial, and often overlooked, tasks which caregivers should tackle routinely:
- Cleaning under fingernails at least weekly.
- Ensuring eyeglasses are cleaned daily.
- Checking and replacing hearing aid batteries as needed.
Reducing the Risk of Dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term for various neurological disorders that cause cognitive decline.
Some of the most common types include:
- Alzheimer’s
- Parkinson’s
- Lewy Body
- Vascular
- Huntington’s
- Frontal Temporal
Although there is no cure for dementia, Adrian noted that lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of developing diseases that lead to dementia.
A brain-healthy diet low in cholesterol, saturated fat, sugar and salt, and rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables and whole grains, is essential.
Regular physical activity, at least 30 minutes a day, is crucial in maintaining brain health. Morning and afternoon exercises are particularly beneficial. Additionally, engaging in activities that keep the brain active can help stimulate cognitive function.
The Reality of Dementia
The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease is staggering. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, with one in three seniors passing away while affected by Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. It claims more lives than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. More than 16 million Americans provide unpaid dementia care, contributing to an estimated $257 billion in economic value. By 2050, the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s is projected to reach 14 million.
Dementia is a challenging journey, but with the right approach, understanding, and care, we can help those affected lead fulfilling lives. By fostering awareness and empathy, we can create a more supportive and understanding environment for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
“80% of senior living communities are impacted by dementia. Every 65 seconds, someone in the U.S. develops a form of dementia.”
