Did you know that around 6 million people in the U.S. have some form of dementia or another? And, as the population gets older, naturally, this number of people is set to increase with it. But, if you’re dealing with dementia (personally or with a family member), there’s hope (in the form of managing it better) for you and your loved ones who are facing this challenge. Believe it or not, your home and family members can be invaluable resources in providing the necessary care and support.
Dementia diagnoses (Alzheimer’s, Lewey body, Parkinson’s) can be scary, and you might be tempted to feel isolated and hesitant to make family the primary source of support. But remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Aging in place, or staying in your own home, is now a mainstream strategy for older folks, even those with dementia. Familiar surroundings, safety, food security, available familiar help, and mental stimulation are key ingredients for a healthy life for all but especially for those with dementia. Every small activity you engage in can make a significant difference.
Aging in place is now a mainstream strategy for caring for older people, even those with dementia.
“Being familiar with your surroundings, feeling safe, avoiding food insecurity, utilizing available help and having opportunities to use your brain—those are important attributes of good health.,” Dr. Sullivan said. “You might not be able to do as much as you did when you were young, but even a little bit goes a long way.”
https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/population-care/why-aging-place-can-be-best-option-dementia-patients
It’s natural for family members to feel overwhelmed when caring for someone with dementia, but don’t let that discourage you. There are resources for proper training and guidance. Willing and properly trained family members can make invaluable caregivers. Making your home safe and accessible might require some effort, but the results are worth it.
Dr. Thomas E. Sullivan‘s work on dementia-friendly health systems, inspired by AARP, the World Health Organization, and the Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative, focuses on the four M’s: What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility. These principles can provide a framework for you and your loved ones to better manage dementia care should that be an issue.
Though funding for aging in place is still limited, you have the power to make a positive difference in your life or the life of a loved one living with dementia. Embrace the benefits of aging in place, and remember that with the right support and resources, you can face this challenge with strength and resilience.
Read more about it here
Bryan Williams
Physical Therapist
is a licensed therapist with near 30 years of professional experience treating a diverse patient population in a multitude of settings. With simple strategies, he educates and empowers his clients with simple strategies to help them move better and with less pain.
