JANUARY IS ALZHEIMER'S AWARENESS MONTH
Contrary to public understanding, the palliative approach is appropriate for any incurable condition, including life-limiting organ diseases, cancers, and neurological conditions. As the prevalence of dementia-related diseases increases, the need for dementia-informed palliative care is growing. The Dementia Society of America provides this broad definition for dementia: “ [It] is not a specific disease. It is a descriptive term for a collection of symptoms that can be caused by a number of disorders that affect the brain. People with dementia have significantly impaired intellectual functioning that interferes with normal activities and relationships. ” Dementia symptoms go beyond cognitive decline and include issues with balance, tunnel vision, appetite decline, difficulty swallowing, and loss of motor function to state a few. According to the Brain Test website, it is estimated that 1 in 6 women and 1 in 10 men living past the age of 55 will develop dementia . “A recent meta-analysis reported that the global prevalence of dementia is somewhere between 5 and 7 percent within people aged 60 or over. By the age of 85 years and older, between 25 and 50 percent of people display symptoms of dementia, more specifically Alzheimer’s.” With dementia cases on the rise the need for well-developed palliative care supports is crucial for patients, their families, and our whole communities. Following are a few suggestions for caregivers as well as links for further information. CARING FOR LOVED-ONES WITH DEMENTIA - A Palliative Approach
As a generality, the following nurture quality of life those with dementia:
Establish a daily routine
Anticipate that tasks may take longer than they used to Allow the person with dementia to do as much as possible with the least amount of assistance
Provide some, but not too many choices every day
People with dementia best understand clear, one-step communication Get the person’s attention – limit distractions and noise
Listen with your ears, eyes, and heart
When the going gets tough, distract and redirect
Be gentle and respectful. Tell the person what you are going to do, step by step
While not a comprehensive list, this provides some insight into the role of the palliative support caregiver for individuals experiencing the symptoms of dementia. In the Bow Valley, dementia patients and their families are supported by the excellent work of Alberta Home Care as well as community resources such as Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), Meals on Wheels, and of course, our own PCSBV companion volunteers.
A Story of Support for "Joan"
“The palliative approach to care takes many forms. From symptom management and pain control to emotional/social supports, palliative care meets us where we are at. For one couple finding their way through the wilderness of dementia, palliative care comes in the form of cross-country skiing. Joan (name has been changed) has been an avid skier through her adult life. This did not change after a diagnosis of dementia. It did mean, however, that some special supports needed to be added. This is when trained PCSBV palliative care volunteers stepped forward. A group of volunteers who happen to be accomplished skiers offered to take turns skiing with Joan. This provides support on numerous levels. Joan has opportunity for brain-stimulating exercise and social engagement, and Joan’s spouse/caregiver has opportunity for self-care and life chores. As her disease progresses, these volunteers can adjust their interaction to meet Joan’s changing needs. A win for all involved, fresh air, care, and the nurturing of quality of life.”
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