Responding to and Managing a Dementia Diagnosis
The journey of dementia is often filled with challenges, but it is crucial to recognize the potential for positive experiences and growth. By shifting the way you approach this life change from one of decline to one of possibility, individuals and their families can navigate this journey with dignity and peaceful acceptance.
Accept the diagnosis and give yourself time to process the information.
Accepting the life-altering diagnosis of any of the many dementias will not be easy. If you are the caregiver or the patient you probably think the problems you are experiencing are not severe enough for such a diagnosis. If you sought the help of a healthcare professional in the very early stages of dementia your symptoms may be slight. However, this is the best time to begin the journey because changes in lifestyle, nutrition, and possibly medication can greatly ease your experience.
Accept whatever emotional response you have. Everyone responds differently. Allow yourself to grieve and experience as many emotions as you need to. Do not think you have to fake bravado or go to bed and pull the covers over your head. Whatever your response is, it is the correct response for you.
Acceptance also means that you must acknowledge that you are on a path you didn’t prepare for, and now you should attempt to design the path you choose to follow.
There are practical steps you can take.
First and foremost, learn everything you can about the type of dementia you have. There are 400 types; you need to know what you are fighting. Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent form of dementia, but it is not the only one. Working with a neurologist will give you access to appropriate testing and allow you to have better conversations regarding your specific situation. You need to know about and understand what treatments are available. Therapy might be an important addition to your plan.
Always let your healthcare providers know about any changes you experience. Don’t keep them in the dark about your progress. They can’t help you if they don’t know what you need.
And, here’s an idea. Ask about clinical trials or research studies in your area. While participating in an interesting experimental study you are advancing medical knowledge regarding neurological problems.
Now is the time to organize legal and financial matters. It is a necessary practical step. Your wishes need to be voiced. I am not suggesting that the Grim Reaper is anywhere nearby. I am saying that the emotional drain on patient and family can distort decision making in the future.
Maintaining your quality of life.
Yes, this is possible. If you go dancing every Saturday night with a group of friends, keep going. If you play golf, set up your next tee time. The diagnosis has come at where you are now. Don’t waste time thinking you have to disappear as a person.
Stay socially active. Go out to dinner with your spouse. Play board games with your grandchildren. Challenge your best friend to a fishing competition. Whatever you are doing now, do it again tomorrow or next week. Focus on your abilities and talents.
It is important that you maintain your physical health through diet and exercise. You already knew this, didn’t you? Well, now is the time to double down on both of these. Give your body and brain a fighting chance; don’t sabotage your future.
Develop your own process for stress reduction. Exercise will help; a blend of exercise and meditation can boost you and stifle any depression that may be sneaking up on you.
Planning for the Future
If you have explained and educated friends and family members about dementia, they will be an invaluable asset in decision making processes. Discuss care preferences with them. Ask them to search for community resources and support services. And, ask if any of your family members or friends can help you decide on long-term care options.
As a caregiver or the receiver of this diagnosis, please realize you do not have to face it alone. There are many, many men and women facing this shocking diagnosis. And they are just as scared and confused as you may be. You can be a guide for others while you seek a guide for yourself.
Let me explain what I mean.
A lot of people who have a diagnosis of dementia retreat from life. That’s OK for about two weeks. After that, look yourself in the mirror and say,
I’m bigger than this. I am a unique person.
I’m bigger than this. I have knowledge I can share.
I’m bigger than this. I can help others on this journey.
I’m bigger than this. I will do my best every day.
I’m bigger than this. I believe the best I can do will be enough.
As always, I send you my love.
Lydia