Maximizing the Capabilities of a Loved One with Dementia – Charlotte Today

dementia

Maximizing the Capabilities of a Loved One with Dementia – Charlotte Today

We often think of people with dementia, especially those with Alzheimer’s, as mostly dependent on others and incapable. Is that really the case? With forethought, caregivers can identify tasks that their loved one can do. Maximizing their capability benefits everyone. And it keeps disease progression at bay. I cover this on Charlotte Today using principles from Carol Amos, author of “H.O.P.E. for the Alzheimer’s Journey. She says the caregiver’s role is to fulfill the needs of their loved one that the loved one cannot do for themselves. She worked proactively to slow the decline of their mother’s dementia to maximize her ability to care for herself. Scheduling regular doctor appointments. Receiving vaccinations and age appropriate health screenings. The family carefully weighed the risk and benefits of any medical procedure. It is important to receive a proper diagnosis as they will rule out other causes of the symptoms such as vitamin deficiencies, hormone imbalance, medication overload, depression, or even sleep apnea.