MANAGING DEMENTIA
MANAGING DEMENTIA
MANAGING DEMENTIA
It is quite common for dementia to progress and become more advanced, with the person experiencing:
1. Personality changes.
2. Depression.
3. Anxiety.
4. Agitation.
5. Being overly suspicious of people and things around (paranoia).
6. Seeing things that aren’t there —hallucinations.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
You are advised to see a healthcare professional if you or a loved one is having difficulty with memory or has other dementia symptoms. Then the doctors can investigate and determine the cause early enough. Some medical conditions that cause dementia symptoms can be treated. For instance, cholinesterase inhibitors like Donepezil are commonly administered to patients with dementia, to help manage the symptoms.
People living with dementia can manage their symptoms by focusing on a combination of lifestyle adjustments, therapies, and support systems. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise, sufficient sleep and engaging in social activities and cognitive stimulation. Activities like dancing, singing, cooking and painting have been found to be really helpful. It is also important to avoid smoking and heavy drinking.
People living with dementia should be encouraged to make legal and financial plans, including preparing their wills and powers of attorney, to ensure that their wishes are followed later on.