Impact of Dementia

Even if you've suspected for a while that you or someone you love might have dementia, the diagnosis may come as a shock. Any diagnosis of dementia will naturally affect family and friends as well as the person diagnosed. Becoming a Carer in this situation may feel like a huge responsibility, with the future now changed and the well-being of someone else resting more with you than it did previously.

Caring for someone with dementia can place real strain on relationships, whether the person you are caring for is your partner, parent, sibling or friend. As the dementia advances you may find the person you look after displays behaviour that is increasingly difficult to understand and at times more difficult to manage – this can be stressful for both of you. It is particularly upsetting when someone you love sometimes behaves in a strange or hostile way towards you. There are many reasons why they may be exhibiting this type of behaviour, and it is therefore important to seek advice from their CPN (a Community Psychiatric Nurse) or your own GP as soon as possible.

It's natural to feel worried about the future. But remember that you're not alone, there is lots of help available for you and for the person with dementia, and Carers Link can help you to find this – we are always here to listen, and to provide information, advocacy and support, as well as courses on issues such as changing relationships,  coping with changing behaviour, looking after yourself or planning for the future etc through our Caring With Confidence courses (see the latest What's On magazine for for details). There are also local groups available if you would like to meet other Carers that understand. Just contact us on 0800 975 2131

 

Further Reading 

  • Both Alzheimer Scotland and Alzheimer Europe have full information on caring for someone with Dementia, covering topics such as communication, mood and other behaviourial changes.
  • A new free DVD based on the above handbook has also recently been produced. The DVD is based on the experiences of carers of people with dementia and offers accessible information to carers of people with moderate to severe dementia. This includes those whose first language is not English, people with sensory impairment, learning disabilities and literacy problems.  The DVD uses carers' voices and the information from the book to give practical advice on coping with caring for someone with dementia; help carers feel that others share the experience; and suggests where to go for help and for more information.  Carers Link has ordered copies, so please contact us if you would like one posted to you.
  • 10 Helpful Hints For Carers: Practical Solutions For Carers Living With People With Dementia -covering areas like how to cope with aggression, creating relaxing environments, 'wandering', sleeplessness and how to cope with dementia and depression, it is full of information and good advice. East Dunbartonshire Carers can contact Carers Link on 0800 975 2131 for a FREE printed copy to be posted to you (subject to availability).