Jun 01, 2023 | News
Dementia is a progressive condition, which affects everybody differently. Each person’s experience of dementia will vary from the next, but the condition generally follows three main stages, with different levels of care needed along the way.
Dementia: the early stages
The early stages of dementia can be difficult to identify, and many people don’t realise that what they are experiencing is early onset dementia. At this stage only a small part of the brain is affected, and symptoms are often mild, meaning many do not seek diagnosis or treatment.
There are certain early signs to look out for, in your own behaviour or in that of your loved ones. These include:
- Forgetfulness or frequent memory lapses
- Abrupt mood swings or changes in mood
- Coordination problems – these might be very mild
- Limited attention span
- Difficulty concentrating or learning new information and skills
If you or your loved one is experiencing any of these signs, then it is important to seek the help of a health professional.
Dementia: the middle stage
As the condition moves into its middle stage, symptoms begin to have more of an effect on a person’s everyday life. It is at this stage that most people receive a formal diagnosis, and this is beneficial as it means the right level of care can be put in place to improve and prolong quality of life.
During this stage, which is often the longest, a person’s symptoms will probably worsen, and there’s greater likelihood of them experiencing, further memory loss, behaviour changes, delusions or hallucinations. But with treatment and the right care, the middle stages of dementia can remain manageable.
Many people prefer to remain living at home during this stage, meaning live-in care can be the ideal solution for middle-stage dementia. Having a professional, dedicated carer providing at-home care means that the person with dementia will benefit from the comfort that comes with remaining in familiar surroundings, with their own routines and belongings, while receiving a high level of support and companionship.
As in the early stages, developing dementia affects people very differently, and live-in care means that support can be tailored to the individual, helping them stay independent for longer.
Opting for live-in care at this stage, with one dedicated carer, rather than community care, also means that the person and their family can build a relationship with their carer, before the progression into the later stages.
Dementia: the advanced stages
The later stages of dementia can become very challenging, and it’s likely that a person living with advanced dementia will need help and support with almost every aspect of daily life.
Many people are no longer capable of looking after themselves or communicating their emotions and needs to others, and therefore 24-hour care is usually required.
At this later stage, which can be upsetting and worrying for all involved, it is still very important for a person to retain dignity and quality of life. For this reason, already having a trusted live-in carer who can deliver continuous targeted support through the later stages of the disease is invaluable.
If you or your loved one would benefit from professional care at home, get in touch with the OxleyCare team today.