Part 3: Caring for loved ones with dementia
Part 3 focuses on improving quality of life and support groups.
Part 3 of caring for loved ones with dementia focuses on improving quality of life and support groups.
According to the Livewell Group, dementia is not a disease. It is instead, considered to be a syndrome, which describes a set of symptoms that manifest differently in individuals.
These may have a variety of different causes including, for example, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or vascular disease, and may occur as a result of a medical condition such as a stroke. The incorrect use of certain medications may also result in symptoms in some individuals.
“Most of us can suffer problems with memory at some stage, particularly as we get older, but dementia is only likely to be considered as a diagnosis when symptoms such as memory loss are causing significant and increasing impairment to the individual’s day-to-day functioning,” explained Emmie Jackson, a health risk assessor and care coordinator in private practice, who is partnered with the Livewell Group.
“We want both our full- and part-time residents to remain as engaged with their families and involved in daily community life as possible. In our experience, even residents with the most advanced dementia whose memories are severely impaired, can be assisted to appreciate and find joy and meaning in the moment,” added Ivan Oosthuizen, chief executive officer of the Livewell Group.
He said the Livewell support group meetings offer an environment for loved ones of people with dementia, including friends, spouses, children and caregivers, to share their journeys and receive support from one another.
“Whether you need information about caregiving, wanting to share your story or simply need to be in a safe environment to seek help, the Livewell support group is there to offer guidance and advice,” concluded Ivan.
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