Was your elderly loved one just diagnosed with dementia? If so, they may instantly be in shock or it could take a while for the diagnosis to set in their mind. Everyone who gets this diagnosis handles it in their own way. With this being said, there are some tips for talking to someone who was just diagnosed with dementia. If you use these tips, you can handle the situation appropriately and do what is best for your elderly loved one.  

No Jokes 

Joking about your elderly loved one forgetting things recently isn’t the way to go. That is only going to hurt their feelings and/or make them feel bad. In addition, if you joke about their forgetfulness they may not start avoiding you. This is a sensitive and serious diagnosis. Treating it as such is the way to handle it best.  

Listen as Much as Your Elderly Loved One Needs 

Your elderly loved one may need to talk and talk and talk some more about their diagnosis. They will go through a range of emotions and they need someone to hear them out. It is important that you are there for your elderly loved one, even if that is just to listen. Your elderly loved one may not need you to say much. They may just need to know that you are letting them vent and talk when needed. If your elderly loved one needs to talk more than you can be there for them, elderly care providers can be there to listen, as well.  

Remember to Take Care of Yourself 

This is a diagnosis that your elderly loved one received. However, you are in this, as well. This is your loved one that received an uncurbable diagnosis. You have a right to your own feelings, as well. It is important that you take all the time you need to handle your emotions and process this news. If that means, you need to step away from taking care of your elderly loved one for a bit, don’t feel bad. There are professional elderly care providers who can step in to help out.  

Conclusion 

The dementia diagnosis is a tough one. Currently, this is not a disease that can be cured. It starts out with mild symptoms and over time, the symptoms progress until they are very severe. It can be difficult for anyone who gets this diagnosis to handle it. It is also tough for family caregivers and other loved ones, too. If your elderly loved one has received a dementia diagnosis, be sure you follow these tips when talking to them about it.  

If you or an aging loved-one are considering a Elderly Care in Anthem, NV please contact the caring staff at Compassion Crest Home Care.

Sources 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/sharing-alzheimers-diagnosis/art-20043902