Grandparents Day 2023: Supporting grandparents in dealing with dementia – News18

Grandparents Day is celebrated every year on the first Sunday of September in India. This year it will be celebrated on September 10. As we celebrate this special day, it is essential to remember and support the grandparents who may be facing the challenges of dementia. Dementia is a condition that can affect memory, cognitive function and daily life, but with love, patience and understanding we can make a significant difference in the lives of our beloved grandparents.

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Your care and understanding can help them meet the challenges of this condition while cherishing the moments of connection and love that define family bonds. Here you will find everything you need to know about dementia, types of dementia, symptoms and some tips to help your grandparents cope with dementia.

WHAT IS DEMENTIA?

Dementia is a general term used to describe a group of cognitive disorders characterized by a decline in memory, thinking, reasoning and the ability to perform daily activities. It is not a specific disease, but rather a set of symptoms associated with various underlying conditions.

Dementia is often associated with older adults, but it is not a normal part of growing older. It can affect people of all ages, although the risk increases with age. The severity and progression of dementia can vary greatly from person to person.

TYPES OF DEMENTIA

1. Alzheimer’s disease
   Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits in the brain, leading to a gradual decline in cognitive function.
2. Vascular dementia
   This type of dementia is often caused by reduced blood flow to the brain due to conditions such as stroke or small blood vessel disease. It can lead to cognitive impairment.
3. Lewy body dementia
   Lewy body dementia is associated with abnormal protein deposits in the brain, called Lewy bodies. It can cause a range of cognitive and motor symptoms, including hallucinations and movement problems.
4. Frontotemporal dementia
   This type of dementia mainly affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. It can lead to changes in personality, behavior and language problems.
5. Mixed dementia
   Some individuals may have a combination of different forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA

• Amnesia
• Difficulties with communication and language
• Impaired reasoning and judgment
• Difficulty with complex tasks
• Changes in mood and behavior
• Disorientation and confusion
• Problems with motor function and coordination.

TIPS TO HELP YOUR GRANDPARENTS DEAL WITH DEMENTIA

1. Educate yourself
   Learn more about dementia and its different forms, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Understanding the condition can help you provide better care and support.
2. Maintenance routine
   Maintain a consistent daily routine to provide your grandparents with a sense of comfort and security. Predictability can reduce anxiety.
3. Stay patient
   Dementia can lead to repetitive questions or confusion. Be patient and respond kindly, even if you’ve answered the same question multiple times.
4. Encourage independence
   Support your grandparents in maintaining as much independence as possible. Simple tasks and decisions can boost their self-esteem.
5. Create a safe environment
   Make sure their living space is safe and free from hazards. Install handrails, remove tripping hazards and use labels or color coding for easier identification.
6. Effective communication
   Use clear and simple language when communicating. Maintain eye contact, listen actively and avoid hasty conversations.
7. Participate in activities
   Stimulate their minds with activities they enjoy, such as puzzles, music or reminiscing about the past. It can be both fun and therapeutic.
8. Social connections
   Encourage social interactions with family and friends. Isolation can worsen dementia symptoms, so keep them busy with meaningful conversations.
9. Medication management
   Make sure they take their prescribed medications as directed. Use pill boxes or set an alarm to keep them on track.
10. Seek professional help
    If you notice significant changes in behavior or cognitive function, consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can improve quality of life.
11. Self-care for informal caregivers
    If you are the primary caregiver, make sure you take care of yourself as well. Seek support from support groups or professionals if necessary.
12. Legal and financial planning
    Help your grandparents make legal and financial arrangements, such as powers of attorney and advanced directives, while they are still able to make decisions.