A diagnosis of dementia can strike a blow to a family. To ensure that family caregivers and those living with dementia remain in good mental health following a diagnosis, it’s important to seek out support.
Whether you search for suitable care homes or home care Tallahassee FL, you need to find the right senior care that offers mental as well as physical support.
Living With Dementia and Its Effect on Mental Health
When it comes to receiving a diagnosis of a progressive neurological condition such as dementia, this can trigger strong emotional reactions. If mental well-being is not a priority in the care of the individual with dementia, this can bring on further issues that negatively impact quality of life.
Frustration and anger
As the condition progresses, individuals will likely experience frustration at not being able to remember or carry out tasks they used to do. If not managed sensitively, these feelings of frustration can easily lead to anger. Lashing out at anyone close by is common in seniors living with dementia.
Depression and anxiety
Episodes of depression and anxiety can stem from the initial diagnosis of dementia. At this point, individuals are aware of the cognitive decline that awaits them. The uncertainty of what’s to come and when can bring on feelings of fear, which may turn into chronic anxiety
There is also a connection between neurological damage and the onset of depression, as the condition progresses. Those living with dementia may find it more difficult to control their mood and emotions. Therefore, it’s vital that depression in those living with dementia is recognized and treated early.
Social isolation and loneliness
Memory loss and communication issues can cause individuals living with dementia to withdraw from society. When socializing, they may become more aware of their symptoms, such as forgetfulness and apathy. However, without social stimulation, they then risk experiencing loneliness.
Lack of social interaction has a knock-on effect on cognitive health and its decline. Without regularly exercising communication skills, these are quickly lost as the condition progresses.
How Dementia Affects Family Caregivers’ Mental Health
The demands of caregiving can be mentally and physically tiring. No matter how much you care for a loved one, administering care is a different matter. Family caregivers need to watch out for these warning signs.
When worry turns to anxiety
General concern for a loved one is one thing, but if worry becomes all-consuming, this could be a sign of anxiety. Understanding the difference helps you know when to take action. Worry is temporary and often tied to one event or problem. While anxiety is long-lasting and becomes an interference in your daily life.
Increased risk of burnout
You can’t do everything. If you are juggling multiple responsibilities and the stress is mounting, the threat of burnout looms. Burnout can leave you out of action and unable to care for yourself, never mind the family member you are caring for. Spotting the signs early, such as fatigue, feelings of dread, loss of joy, and becoming irritable, gives you time to do something about it.
No time for yourself
Hobbies and time with friends make life enjoyable. But what if you have to give these up because of your caring responsibilities? Not having time for yourself is a big mistake many family caregivers make. Finding a way to balance caring and enjoyable activities ensures that your own mental health is being prioritized.
How to Support Mental Well-being When Caring or Being Cared for
While it’s important to recognize the signs of a shift in mental well-being, it is also essential to know what to do about it. Here are a few steps to take to support the mental health of family caregivers and those living with dementia.
For carers
Dementia is a demanding condition that takes away an individual’s independence. For a family caregiver, this means they become a mental and physical crutch for the care recipient. To take the pressure off and recover time for themselves, caregivers can seek out the support of in-home carers or depend on day centers. These afford family caregivers much-needed time off.
Family caregivers can also find a local support group where people in similar situations can share stories and help each other through this often challenging time. Knowing that you are not alone with your responsibilities can provide a huge relief and put things into perspective.
For those being cared for
If a family caregiver has no prior experience in caring for a person living with dementia, supporting them is difficult. One way to ensure that all the bases are covered is to call in an in-home carer for a few shifts a week. Or, as the condition progresses and depending on how much help is needed, 24-hour care.
In-home carers are knowledgeable in how to best support the mental and physical health of someone living with dementia. They are well-equipped with strategies that ensure the care receiver doesn’t succumb to the downward spiral of depression and anxiety associated with a dementia diagnosis.
Ultimately, there’s no shame in admitting that you need professional help. As either a carer or care receiver. The right help at the right time can prevent common mental health issues such as depression and anxiety from escalating. Enlisting the assistance of an in-home carer offers the family caregiver respite and time off, whilst providing the care receiver with specialist support for their condition.
