Dementia is a condition that affects older adults as well as those in their circle. Anyone diagnosed with dementia will have a hard time remembering things, planning or concentrating. Even so, everyone tends to experience the disease in their unique manner. That said, a dementia diagnosis does not imply that everything is over. By remaining positive and focusing on doable things, older adults with the condition can still enjoy a happy and fulfilling life. Apart from being hopeful, elderly folks living with dementia require proper help as well as a strong support system to get by with the ailment for many years. This article aims to explore how to live well with dementia. Read on!
Make Your Health a Top Priority
Despite your condition, it is crucial to focus on your mental health and general well-being. You can achieve that by embracing a healthy and balanced diet with plenty of water and fluids. Also, you will need to work out regularly. There are many less grueling workout routines for older adults you can try. You can give a shot at other fun and enjoyable activities that will engage your brain and enhance your creativity, like reading or gardening. Dancing and tai chi are equally perfect for mental health.
In the same vein, you should not forget about your medication and crucial vaccination shots for pneumonia, flu and other common ailments. Folks with dementia are also discouraged from taking alcohol or caffeine at night or sleeping during the day. Finally, you should go for regular checkups for your hearing, eyesight and dental health.
Let People Know about Your Condition
Dementia is characterized by erratic behavior, such as a change in personality and the inability to control emotions. This can lead to a situation where the people around you fail to understand you. Besides that, you will tend to forget people’s names or even follow conversations that they may find disrespectful.
Nonetheless, by informing them about your dementia and how it affects you, they will be much more understanding and know how to approach you when the symptoms become worse. A lot of them may not necessarily understand how the condition manifests. Therefore, you should be as detailed as possible to drive the point home.
You should also let them know about the things that you can do and those that you may no longer be able to do. Some of the information you share with them may be hard for them to accept, but they will come around in due time.
Remain Socially Active
Socializing regularly helps sustain your old friendship besides making it possible to bond with new pals. Likewise, engaging in social activities such as going to the cinemas or joining a book club is good for your mental health besides boosting your confidence.
You should also interact with other folks despite your unique condition to combat loneliness and remain happy. While doing all this, it is crucial to ensure you do it in dementia-friendly environments. Your condition is likely going to get worse if your interactions are stressful.
Soldier On!
It is still possible to enjoy your life and be happy despite being diagnosed with dementia. All you have to do is focus on your health and well-being and spend more time around people who love and embrace your condition.
