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Dementia

Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of conditions which affect the brain and are characterised by a decline in memory, problems with communications, impaired reasoning, and difficulties with daily living skills. These changes can disrupt an individual's ability to live independently and may affect their social relationships.

While many different can lead to a person developing dementia there are four main types:
Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's disease, the most prevalent form of dementia, occurs due to the accumulation of improperly formed proteins in the brain. These proteins form plaques and tangles, disrupting nerve cell function and communication.
Vascular Dementia
The second most prevalent form of dementia, occurs when the brain doesn't get enough blood, affecting its functionality.
Dementia With Lewy Bodies (DLB):
Lewy body dementia is caused by the buildup of Lewy bodies—small protein clumps—within brain nerve cells. This condition leads to the gradual impairment of nerve cells' functionality.
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD):
Occurs when abnormal protein types disrupt nerve cell functioning, primarily affecting the brain's frontal and temporal lobes. These areas govern behaviour, planning, problem-solving, emotions, and language skills, leading to specific challenges in these functions as the condition progresses.
Dementia, a progressive and terminal condition, with cognitive challenges and reliance on others increasing over years. The lifespan after diagnosis varies based on dementia type, age, and overall health. Yet, with quality support, individuals with dementia can enjoy many years of good quality of life. It underscores the importance of compassionate and specialised care to enhance their well-being and dignity throughout this journey.

Everyone's journey with dementia is unique, and the way it manifests can vary, particularly in the early stages. However, there are some common symptoms:
Memory Loss (Anterograde Amnesia):
Short-term memory loss is the most common feature of dementia. It becomes worse as the disease progresses and eventually affects long-term memory.
Communication (Dysphasia/Aphasia):
Difficulty with finding the right words or understanding what is being said.
Carrying Out Tasks (Dyspraxia/Apraxia):
Difficulty with sequencing and doing everyday tasks such as getting dressed, laying the table, cooking etc.
Concentration
Difficulty with attention for periods of time.
Recognition (Agnosia)
Difficulty with recognising familiar objects, people, sights, places, sounds.
Orientation
Difficulty with finding your way around, knowing the time, date etc
Perception
Difficulty with understanding and interpreting information.
Visual-Spatial Difficulties
Misinterpreting or misjudging things  or seeing things that are not there (hallucinations).
Psychological Changes
People may behave in unusual or uncharacteristic ways, such as being disinhibited or irritable, withdrawn, or depressed.
As mentioned, everyone experiences dementia their own way and so the speed at which the disease progresses can differ from person to person. The three stages are:
Early Stage
In the initial stages of dementia, symptoms are usually mild, often allowing individuals to maintain their independence with minimal assistance with people usually opting for visiting care. Our approach at this stage is deeply rooted in empowerment and collaboration. We aim to extend the period of autonomy for you or your loved one by identifying and building upon existing strengths. Together, we navigate through the challenges posed by daily tasks, ensuring a sense of achievement and normalcy.

Recognizing the intricate link between overall health and the progression of dementia, we place a high priority on the meticulous management of any concurrent long-term health issues. This not only supports general well-being but also has the potential to slow the advancement of dementia symptoms. Our commitment to a holistic care strategy underpins our belief that a multifaceted approach is most beneficial. By assessing and, if necessary, optimizing diet and sleep routines, we lay a foundation for physical health that supports cognitive function. Furthermore, we actively encourage engagement in physical exercises, mental stimulation, and social interactions. These activities are not only enjoyable but are critical in maintaining cognitive abilities and enhancing quality of life.
Middle Stage
As dementia progresses to the middle stage, symptoms intensify, necessitating increased support for daily activities. Individuals at this phase require regular reminders and assistance with personal care routines, such as dressing, which may involve preparing their outfits in advance. Our approach adapts to these evolving needs, offering compassionate and respectful assistance to maintain dignity and ease in daily life, ensuring each individual continues to feel supported and valued. It is common for people to require live-in care at this point.
Later Stage
In the later stages of dementia, the condition deeply affects virtually all aspects of a person's life, making comprehensive, full-time care essential meaning they will need 24 hour care. Daily living activities and personal care routines, including eating, bathing, and dressing, require attentive, skilled support.

Opting for in-home care allows for a continuity of environment and routine, which can be comforting to individuals with dementia and beneficial for their overall sense of security and well-being. Our services adapt as needs evolve, ensuring that our clients receive the right level of support at every stage, all while staying in the familiar surroundings of their own home

Approach to Dementia Care

At Practical Care, we champion a relationship-centered approach to dementia care, recognizing the importance of supporting both the individual with dementia and their family members. We understand that dementia affects everyone involved, not just those diagnosed. The emotional toll and physical strain on family members, as they navigate the significant changes in their loved one, can be profound. Our respite care services provide families with the necessary pause, offering peace of mind that their loved ones are in compassionate and skilled hands.

Collaboration with family members is crucial. Your insights offer invaluable understanding of how your loved ones best manage their daily lives. By incorporating your perspectives and desires, we co-create a personalised care plan. This plan not only respects your preferences but also reflects a comprehensive grasp of your loved one's capabilities and needs.

Our approach aims to maintain the dignity and independence of individuals with dementia, while also addressing the well-being of their families. By working together, we ensure that our care is not only practical but also deeply empathetic, tailored to enrich the lives of everyone involved.

Useful Resources

Alzheimers Org
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-involved/donate?gad_source=1
Dementia UK
https://www.dementiauk.org/

Get in Touch with Us Today

We understand the challenges of finding the right care for yourself or a loved one. At Practical Care, we’re dedicated to making home a place of safety, comfort, and happiness.
If you have any questions or need more information about our services, please don't hesitate to reach out. Our compassionate team is here to help you every step of the way
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