Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe various conditions which damage brain cells and lead to a loss of brain function over time.
Dementia
causes a progressive decline in a persons mental functioning. It is a broad term, which describes a loss of memory, intellect, rationality, social skills and normal emotional reactions.
A diagnosis of dementia can create feelings of anger, fear, and anxiety. A person in the early stage of the illness should seek emotional support from family, friends, and perhaps a counsellor experienced in working with people who have dementia. Professional counselling may help the person accept the diagnosis and develop coping strategies.
If the condition is diagnosed early, people with mild dementia can be involved with their doctor and home help providers in planning for the future and organizing the home and daily tasks. Dementia progresses at different rates in different people, so a person may have many months, or even years, of stable functioning. People with dementia may be able to stay mentally and physically active for years.
Dementia in Ireland - The facts
- There are currently more than 40,000 people in Ireland with dementia, with the number expected to be in excess of 104,000 by 2037 unless there is a medical breakthrough.
- In 2009 there will be an estimated 4,000 new cases of dementia in Ireland.
- Dementia can affect younger people; currently approximately 3,800 people in Ireland under the age of 65 have Younger Onset Dementia.
- Between 2002 and 2036, the number of people with dementia in Ireland is expected to increase by over 300%, while the total population increases by less than 40%.
- Dementia affects the lives of nearly 50,000 people in Ireland who are involved in caring someone with one of the six symptoms of dementia.
Successfully caring for a person with dementia involves good communication that boosts self-esteem, positive physical contact, creative thinking that encourages the person's existing skills, maintaining positive attitudes, and rekindling the spark of life in both you as the supportive partner and in people with dementia.
Home Care Plus can help you by providing one on one care for dementia sufferers.
Our carers can help
- To make sure the home is a safe environment for the person
- To create activities to stimulate the mind and make the most of remaining abilities
- To understand and deal with changing behaviour
- To stimulate social interaction
- To manage daily activities
- To help maintain good nutrition