It’s important that seniors and their loved ones know the warning signs of dementia. But what happens when someone starts exhibiting signs of dementia at a younger age than you would expect? Learn how to support someone with early-onset dementia so you can provide a helping hand.
What is Early-Onset Dementia?
Dementia is a cognitive condition that primarily affects seniors. Because of this, most medical professionals do not screen for dementia or consider diagnosing it in their patients before the age of 65. However, some people do not realize that dementia can occur in younger patients as well, which can lead to the condition being overlooked. There are several warning signs of early-onset dementia that everybody should know:
- Health conditions that create and contribute to cognitive difficulties, such as Down’s Syndrome or vascular dementia
- A family history of early-onset dementia or other cognitive conditions appearing earlier than expected
- Increasing age-inappropriate difficulties with day-to-day life (struggles following routine, issues with disorientation, mood swings, and behavioral changes) without an identifiable source
If you suspect that someone you love might be experiencing early-onset dementia, it is essential that you speak to a medical professional and make sure that person gets the help they need. Learning how to support someone with early-onset dementia can feel intimidating, but once you know what you’re doing, you’ll be an invaluable resource to the person you love.
Help With Life Changes
One of the reasons that early-onset dementia is so disruptive is that it takes place earlier in life when people are more likely to have responsibilities like a full-time job or managing a home. Individuals with early-onset dementia often need practical support to navigate the impact of their diagnosis:
- Meeting with a lawyer to create a Power of Attorney is an essential first step. This allows your loved one to designate someone who can represent them in legal and financial matters if they are incapacitated. A lawyer can also help with other legal documentation, such as a will or a living trust.
- Maintaining a full-time job with early-onset dementia is challenging. Help your loved one explore options such as early retirement or using the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
- Because early-onset Alzheimers is federally recognized as a disability, your loved one may be able to access Medicaid and Medicare resources earlier than expected. This can help fill budget gaps and make medical care accessible.
- As your loved one’s abilities change, they’ll appreciate assistance keeping track of things like appointments and other details of daily life. Help them with adaptive strategies like to-do lists and other memory aids.
Planning For the Future
Because dementia is a progressive condition, it’s essential to plan for long-term care as well as immediate life changes. There are several things you can do to help your loved one adjust and prepare for the future:
- If you’re taking care of someone with early-onset dementia, it’s essential to prioritize your own self-care as well. Take practical steps to preserve your health and well-being to avoid burnout.
- People with dementia can become socially isolated by their condition, so maintaining a respectful and loving relationship with them is extremely important. It may take some practice, but learning how to communicate and spend time with someone with dementia is a great way to support them.
- Moving into a senior living community can help many seniors with age-related cognitive difficulties get the daily care they need and significantly improve their quality of life. Look into senior living as an invaluable long-term option.
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Now that you know how to support someone with early-onset dementia, you can help your loved one get the care they need. And if you need more advice, contact the Memory Care experts at Waterstone on Augusta.
Are you seeking a premier assisted living and memory care community in downtown Greenville, South Carolina? Visit us at Waterstone on Augusta. Our community is relaxing and elegant, and we strive to enhance the quality of life of the seniors we serve through teamwork and unity. To learn more about our amenities and to view our lovely community, please schedule a tour, send us a message online, or call us today at 864-605-7236.