As you progress in years, there is no denying that life will become different. Still, that does not mean the days need to be bleak or limited. No matter the age, your loved one can still live a fulfilling and enjoyable life, even if they are living with dementia. By taking the right steps, they can enjoy a full and meaningful life.
Here are some helpful pointers to keep in mind to help you age well while living with dementia.
Managing Dementia
With dementia, the most effective management is tailored to each individual case. Nonetheless, there are some core steps to help support life quality and limit disease progression. Also keep in mind that the speed at which dementia advances differs for every person, so do not be discouraged if your loved one’s symptoms appear more advanced than in other cases.
Here are some tips for aging well while living with dementia:
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
By following a balanced diet, exercising on a regular basis, and getting enough restful sleep, physical and mental well-being can stay at optimal levels. Additionally, a healthy lifestyle will increase the chances for good health and a long life.
- Seek Support When Needed
There is no need to face dementia alone. Employ the help of healthcare professionals, caregivers, and support groups for invaluable aid. Embracing this kind of support can help prevent emergencies and extend the happier days too.
- Developing an Aging Well Plan
Crafting an aging well plan is paramount to aging gracefully with dementia. This plan should be composed of pursuits that bring joy and are feasible to partake in. It should incorporate family members and friends. It is very helpful to devise an established schedule as this aids stability. Staying organized and staying committed to the routine promotes feelings of control and lessens confusion or distress.
- Creating a Support System
Having a reliable network of assistance is crucial for people with dementia. To create this support system, have a conversation with your loved one and close relatives. Take note of the people who provide comfort during challenging times, then connect with support groups or online discussion forums dedicated to caregivers and family members of dementia patients.
- Keeping Yourself Healthy and Physically Active
It is imperative to uphold a healthy lifestyle which involves consuming a nutritious diet that comprises whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. A healthy diet assists with sharpening cognitive skills and fortifying the immune system. Additionally, adequate hydration contributes to improved mental clarity and energy levels.
Furthermore, regular physical activity like walking or cycling for at least thirty minutes everyday keeps the body strong and makes daily activities more manageable. Moreover, you should become socially engaged by interacting with family members and friends on a regular basis, which helps to stimulate the brain. Additionally, it gives you a sense of purpose, joy and meaning to life.
- Exploring Activities That Engage and Stimulate the Mind
To counter memory loss and stimulate the brain, it is recommended to pursue activities that offer mental engagement. This can range from reading a book for a discussion group, crafting with art and textiles, writing creatively in a class, or learning another language. An abundance of online resources such as courses and puzzles are available with the general aim to increase knowledge. These activities assist in honing the mind and developing relationships between people of different ages.
