What Should Canadians Do About the Rise in Dementia Cases?

Dementia has been a common concern for many aging adults and some younger individuals for many years. A new report from the Alzheimer Society of Canada predicts nearly one million people in the country will be living with dementia by the end of 2030. The report also mentions that the number of people living with dementia will increase to more than 1.7 million, nearly three times more than in 2020.

As the number of cases rises, many family members and caregivers might face difficulties when their loved ones get diagnosed with dementia. What can you do to make the process more comfortable for your aging parent or partner?

Learn About Different Dementia Types

Although many forms of dementia have similar symptoms, some can vary depending on the type. For example, behaviour changes or loss of cognitive abilities are common in many forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s Disease and Frontotemporal dementia. On the other hand, problems with spatial orientation — such as getting lost in familiar places — are more common in Alzheimer’s than in Frontotemporal. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the different types of dementia to understand what type of help your loved one will need.

When you educate yourself about the different dementia types, you can pay attention to each symptom and address it as the disease progresses.

Seek Professional Care

Reputable memory care homes work with highly trained nurses that can help control dementia symptoms and create a comfortable living space for your loved one. If your loved one’s daily life is disrupted after their diagnosis, home for dementia patients look for in your area.

Encouraging your aging parent or partner to live in a memory care resident will allow them to access specialized care. This will make it easier for them to participate in memory-engaging activities, socialize with other seniors, and manage their medication effectively.  

Make Lifestyle Changes

Dementia causes significant changes to one’s daily life. With the rising rate of dementia cases in Canada, people need to learn the different ways they can make their loved ones comfortable at home. According to research, it’s important to prioritize four areas to reduce risk and address safety: physical harm, economic harm, emotional harm, and relational harm.

Making a few changes to help your loved one better cope with dementia will reduce the hurdles they face after the diagnosis and help them feel safe and comfortable in their surrounding environment.

Some changes that help include increasing physical activity, adapting the home for safety, and monitoring personal comfort.

Offer a Shoulder to Lean On

An individual with dementia loses neurons as they age, resulting in memory loss, poor judgment, and confusion. The sudden changes in their life and the inability to function independently can affect their mental and physical state. Offering them a shoulder to lean on during these challenging times is essential.

Take time to observe your loved one’s behaviour and help them cope with the drastic changes. They may withdraw from social situations and choose to isolate themselves, which can harm their mental health. Do your research and have open conversations, which may help them communicate their needs with you, allowing you to assist as necessary.

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