We understand that caring for a loved one with dementia can be a challenging and emotional journey. Dementia and disorientation are difficult to witness in a loved one. However, if you are a relative’s primary caretaker, it is part of the journey.
It’s natural to wonder if they are aware of their own confusion. Follow along as our Denver memory care experts answer this question and provide some strategies to help reduce confusion and disorientation among seniors with dementia.
Does a person with dementia know they are confused?
While it may seem like a simple question, the answer is not always clear. In the early stages of dementia, people may be aware that they are experiencing memory loss or difficulty with certain tasks.
The effects of dementia can be a source of frustration that leads to:
- Depression
- Agitation
- Combative behaviors
- Inactivity
- Becoming reclusive
However, as memory loss progresses, they may become less aware of their confusion and forgetfulness. This is due to the deterioration of brain cells that affect their ability to recognize and understand their cognitive decline.
Strategies to Reduce Dementia Confusion and Disorientation
While there is no cure for dementia, there are strategies that can help reduce confusion and disorientation among seniors with dementia. Here are four tips:
- Stick to a routine: establishing a routine can help provide a sense of structure and predictability that can be calming for seniors with dementia.
- Simplify the environment: remove clutter and unnecessary items from the home to reduce distractions and make it easier for your loved one to navigate.
- Use memory aids: labels, signs, and other memory aids can help seniors with dementia remember important information.
- Stay engaged: engage your loved one in activities they enjoy and promote mental stimulation.
Staying physically and socially active is vital for maintaining overall health and well-being. It also plays a critical role in slowing down the process of memory loss in seniors with dementia. This is because engaging in physical and social activities stimulates the brain’s ability to form new connections, a process called neuroplasticity.
Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which can help improve cognitive function and memory. Try:
- Taking a daily walk
- Participating in chair exercises
- Practicing yoga
Social activities provide mental stimulation and promote social connections, which are vital for brain health. Try:
- Playing games
- Attending social events
- Joining a book club
- Joining a support group
Research shows that seniors who engage in physical and social activities have better cognitive function and a reduced risk of developing dementia. Moreover, staying active can slow the progression of memory loss in individuals with dementia by keeping the brain busy and forming new neural connections.
Incorporating physical and social activities into daily life can be challenging for seniors with dementia, but it’s essential to find activities that are enjoyable and accessible. Activities should be tailored to each individual’s abilities and interests, and caregivers can play a vital role in facilitating these activities and providing support.
The Connections memory care program at The Courtyards at Mountain View utilizes these strategies to provide residents with a purposeful lifestyle.
Stages of Dementia and Memory Loss
Alzheimer’s and dementia are progressive. They affect the brain’s ability to function and will eventually require 24-hour care.
Memory loss and confusion may be mild and manageable in the early stages. The person affected may not be aware of their symptoms, but friends and family will likely notice a difference. With progression, a person with dementia may become increasingly frustrated at the changes in their brain.
Memory loss becomes more severe, and seniors with dementia may begin to forget loved ones and important events as progression moves from the middle to late stages.
The progression of dementia varies from person to person, and some seniors may experience a more rapid decline than others.
Memory Care in Denver: The Connections Program at The Courtyards at Mountain View
If you’re looking for memory care in Denver, consider The Courtyards at Mountain View. Our Connections program is designed specifically for seniors with memory loss. Our dementia care team provides a welcoming and secure environment where loved ones can receive the care and support they need.
Our trained team members are available 24/7 to assist with daily living activities. We offer a range of exercises, classes, and events that encourage residents to:
- Connect
- Move
- Learn
Activities are done with this process in mind to promote mental stimulation and engagement.
Dr. Sandra Petersen created the memory care program. She overcame mobility and memory loss following a stroke by using neuroplasticity therapies. Her research into this treatment now inspires people with Alzheimer’s and dementia in Pegasus Senior Living communities nationwide.
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be a challenging journey, but with the right strategies and support, it can also be a rewarding experience. Remember that it’s okay to ask for help, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at The Courtyards at Mountain View if you’re looking for data-based memory care in Denver, CO.
A Resource for Dementia Caregivers in Denver, Colorado
Contact us to learn more about ways of relieving a loved one with memory loss. Follow our guide for extra support near you.