Written on: January 31, 2020
Asking for help takes strength
The people who interact with someone on an almost daily basis will most likely be among the first to notice a change in those who are experiencing symptoms of dementia.
So, what do I do with this knowledge?
This might depend on your own personality and your history with the person who is struggling. It can be challenging to ask an “outsider” if they, too, notice what you are beginning to see and experience. It may feel like a betrayal of your relationship, or a weakness in your ability to help this special person in your life.
But, there is strength in our willingness to be open when we realize the current situation is beyond our abilities.
Never assume that someone else will notice and do something. The adage, “See something, do something” easily applies here.
The sooner action is taken to recognize and treat memory issues, the more effective the available interventions will be at slowing down the memory losses.
By “covering” for your friend and loved one, you will lose the very thing you treasure the most, their companionship.
SO true. The University of Pennsylvania Hospital Penn Memory Center has some excellent programs for people with memory problems and their companion/caregiver. Additionally they have music programs with Curtis Institute, and art programs that help the person with memory problems,