You hear the term dementia quite frequently, but few people understand what it truly means. The actual definition is a significant loss of intellectual abilities, which can include memory, that is severe enough to interfere with social or occupational functioning.

Approximately 1% of adults over the age of 60 suffer from some level of dementia, with Alzheimer’s being the most probable cause. Prior to rendering a diagnosis of dementia, doctors first rule out other conditions such as depression or vitamin deficiencies. Early diagnosis offers the best chance for successful treatment, as well as allowing those who have a progressive form of the disease to make plans for future while they are still able to make decisions.

Historically, there have never been viable pharmaceutical options for the treatment of dementia. However, over the past five years, medical research has been able to provide several drug options for treating dementia. Although there is no current treatment which can halt or stop the process, these drugs can both improve the symptoms and, in some cases, slow the progression of the disease. They can also improve the patient’s quality of life, as well as easing the burden of caregivers. As the population continues to age, this area of research becomes even more significant.

If a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, one of the first questions people generally have is regarding the type of care they will need. The level of care required depends upon the severity of the dementia, as well as whether or not it is the progressive form of the disease.

Individuals who suffer from moderate to severe dementia often need 24 hour care to prevent them from being a danger to themselves or others. They generally need assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating.

If you are caring for a loved one who has been diagnosed with dementia, one of the first things you will want to do is to check the home for common dangers and obstacles such as knives, chemicals, and tools-all of which should be removed or locked away to prevent accidents. In addition, consider ID tags or a medical bracelet which provides identification and contact information in the event your loved one wanders away or becomes lost.

People who suffer from dementia may become frustrated when they have difficulty performing everyday tasks, and it’s important that the caregiver understand the frustration and help their relative adapt to their condition. Often, the level of care required is beyond what a family member is able to provide. In these cases, utilizing home health care services is often the ideal solution. The addition of qualified professional health aides can make all the difference by relieving some of the caregivers burden as well as helping the patient learn ways to cope with their condition.

Caring for a loved one with dementia can pose many different challenges. Patients with dementia have a progressive disorder which makes it increasingly difficult for them to clearly remember things, communicate with others, and make important decisions. In addition, dementia can cause mood swings and even change a person’s personality and behavior.

There are a few things that you can do to improve your communication skills and make caring for someone with dementia less stressful for the caregiver and a more positive experience for your loved one. Good communication skills will also enhance your ability to handle the difficult behavior you may encounter as you care for a person with a dementing illness.  Here are some tips to help improve communication when caring for someone with dementia.

• Break down activities into a series of smaller steps-Often, tasks can seem overwhelming for someone with dementia and they are easily frustrated. By breaking the activity down into smaller steps and gently encouraging and reminding them throughout the process, the activity becomes much more manageable for them.
• Ask simple questions-Limit questions to one at a time, and allow time for a reply. Asking multiple questions at once is confusing for dementia sufferers, and can cause confusion.
• Set a positive mood for interaction. Your attitude and body language communicate your feelings and thoughts stronger than your words. Set a positive mood by speaking to your loved one in a pleasant and respectful manner.