It can be difficult to know what to do when someone you love is diagnosed with vascular dementia. Here are some suggestions.
1) Talk about it in the right way
Coming to terms with dementia is difficult for friends and family members too. But talking about it and planning for the future together can help you both deal with any worries.
The more you understand what the person wants, the more confident you will be when it comes to making decisions for them in the future. So start talking about it now and make as many plans as you can.
2) Find out as much as possible
You may be offering your loved one more support and care as their condition gets worse. Becoming a carer is not something most people feel prepared for. It can help to find out as much as you can at the start.
With their permission, talk to their GP or dementia team and make sure you understand their condition, how it’s likely to change and how you can best support them.
Ask your GP surgery and local council about any support you can get as a carer. Speak to your employer to see what support they can offer you, such as flexible working patterns or reduced hours. Find out about benefits you may be entitled to, if you’re not working or you care for someone.
3) Find someone to talk to
Caring for someone can be emotionally and physically demanding. Even if you’re not a full-time carer, coping with the fact that someone close to you has dementia is difficult. Talking to other carers or families who are dealing with dementia could be helpful. Organisations in the ‘Other sources of support and information’ section can tell you about support available, such as carers’ groups in your area.
4) Don’t forget about your own needs
You cannot care for someone else if you’re not taking care of yourself. So don’t ignore your own needs. Look after your health – try to eat well, stay active and go to the doctor when you need to. Make sure you use all the support available to you. Have a list of jobs to give to other people if they offer to help, for example, going to the supermarket or doing the laundry. Dementia UK has more tips on looking after yourself when you care for someone or if you’re caring from a distance.
You can also have a carer’s assessment to see if you can get some support with your caring role. Support could include providing respite care, where someone else looks after the person to give you a break. Or there may be a day centre they can go to, so you can have a bit of time to yourself. Contact your local council (or health trust in Northern Ireland) if you have not had a carer’s assessment.