Many understand Alzheimer’s disease from what we observe about how it affects someone we love. It is easy to identify the confusion, or the loss of memory. We can easily see certain mental abilities diminishing as the disease progresses. But you may have wondered, what does some with Alzheimer’s experience in their mind?
Understanding what our loved one is experiencing will be an invaluable help to compassionately and lovingly helping them to navigate their journey.
Imagine the Alzheimer’s Experience
The best way to learning how to speak and interact with a dementia patient is to imagine yourself in their shoes. Take the situation at hand and consider how you would feel if you were the one faced with forgetting a child, or not remembering that your spouse has passed on. Here are a few of the feelings which Alzheimer’s patients routinely experience.
Embarrassment: Feeling embarrassed about not remembering basic things, not being able to complete a sentence because the word escapes us, not being able to answer questions about our own lives- this can be an Alzheimer’s patient’s existence. Easing their embarrassment can go a long way to helping them feel comfortable. Simply say “that’s ok, I forget names sometimes too!” Then introduce yourself without making a big deal out of it. You may also want to make a photo collage identifying everyone important in their life.
Worry or Anxiety: There is an undercurrent of fear when we know we are forgetting something. Whether we worry that we have forgotten an important date, missed an appointment, or didn’t remember to call someone – that sense of “what am I forgetting?” can be overwhelming. You can help your loved one by writing everything into a calendar which they can reference easily, and assure them at every visit that things are going as they should. Go through their calendar, bank account, or mail every time you visit – whatever makes them feel more at ease that bases are covered.
Isolation and Loss: It is easy to retreat into your own mind when feeling like no one understands. While patients with Alzheimer’s experience life moment and by moment, you can remind them often that they are not alone and that you love them. Surround them with photos, cards and messages, and mementos of times and people they do remember. This will allow them to think about those people and events they remember, giving them a sense of belonging and purpose and feeling less isolated. If you choose to find a memory care facility to care for your loved one, be sure that they have a culture which is interactive and supportive. It is important that your loved one experiences human connection every single day.
Paranoia: Unfortunately, patients with dementia can experience paranoia. Imagine trying to make your way through life not understanding who the people surrounding you are, what medications they are trying to make you take, or why they are moving you from place to place. While you may not be able to ease fears completely, having an understanding attitude can go a long way. Again, put yourself in their shoes – and then speak to them in a way that takes into account the fear they must be experiencing.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease rob both patient and family of close relationships and a sense of security. If you and your loved one are struggling, consider a tour of the Venice memory care facility at A Banyan Residence. Our staff is not only highly trained and knowledgeable in what your loved one is experiencing, but we have deep compassion for what they are feeling. Come in today and let us help. Because the Alzheimer’s experience can be scary and frustrating, but you can learn ways to make it through, armed with information, love and support.
