When people are diagnosed with dementia, one of the possible reactions to the diagnosis is apathy. Here, people lose complete interest in things they used to enjoy. In many cases, apathy may start even before the symptoms of dementia set in. If your loved one is undergoing memory care in Laurinburg, NC, and has a problem with apathy, here are some ways you can help them deal with the problem.
Understanding Dementia
Dementia is one of the common memory loss conditions, and many Americans are diagnosed with the problem each year. While it is normal to forget some things every now and then, memory loss conditions entail the loss of memory to the point that it affects the quality of life that our loved ones live. For example, everyday activities such as running errands can become problematic as you or your loved one may be unable to manage money and other activities. They may also forget their way home, thus leading to the need for some level of assistance.
Given the implications to the quality of life we enjoy, it is understandable that some people may choose to be apathetic about their condition. Here are some ways to help your loved one deal with the situation.
Engage With Them
If you notice that your loved ones are apathetic towards their condition and life in general, you should first engage with them. Part of the reason why your loved one may be apathetic to a dementia diagnosis is due to fear. When we are scared of something, we may sometimes choose to ignore it in the hope that it will go away. The best way of dealing with fear is to face it. To do this, it may help to encourage your loved one to talk about their fears. Speaking out about their worries helps them face the problem and to begin planning how to manage the condition.
Discuss Solutions
One way of overcoming our fear of a problem is to plan how to counter it. It works the same way with dementia. When we start discussing solutions with our loved ones, such as memory care programs, it may help them realize that this is a condition they can manage. This will likely make them more confident and help them face the issue.
Involve Them In The Solution
Another way to help your loved ones overcome apathy after a dementia diagnosis is to involve them in the process of finding solutions. For example, if you are looking for a memory care program, you can go along with them and work together to find the right one. This is also a great opportunity for them to overcome some of their fears as they get to ask experts at the retirement living community questions about managing their condition.
Let The Know They Have Your Support
Another approach to helping your loved one overcome memory loss problems is to show them that they have the support of their loved ones. Beyond expressing this sentiment to them, it also helps to show them in actions. For example, family members can visit their loved ones frequently, especially if they are in a retirement community.
