Not everyone “looks” like they have dementia.
Our TV shows and movies have done a great job at showing a person with severe dementia look confused and lost.
Usually it’s a person in their late 80’s with really bad memory and who can’t follow a conversation.
At a quick glance, it’s easy to see something is “wrong” with that person.
But most people with dementia don’t look like that at all.
In fact, if you lined up a group of 50 older adults you wouldn’t be able to easily pick out the people with dementia. It wouldn’t be so obvious.
In the earlier stages of dementia, the person with dementia can look just like you and me.
Even more surprising is that their memory and their language may be totally fine as well.
The hard part about this is that other family members, neighbors, and even friends might not understand how much help your loved one with dementia really needs.
In fact, they might even think you’re “exaggerating” or being “dramatic” when you tell them how you’re loved one is doing because it doesn’t seem like anything is wrong with them when they stop by for a short visit or call them on the phone.
It’s in these types of situations Careblazers start to become concerned that they might get reported to Adult Protective Services (APS) to possible abuse or exploitation.
While you can educate and inform other people about what’s actually happening, it’s impossible for you to control or convince what other people think.
If you happen to be concerned about a possible APS report against you (this tends to be more common when the person with dementia tells people that you are being mean to them or doing harm), then I encourage you to watch my video below on how to best protect yourself.
Be sure to keep your attention on things that are within your control. You can really run yourself into the ground trying to change everyone’s opinions of you.
Resource
Sending love,
Dr. Natali + The Careblazer Team
Watch my newest training video by clicking HERE.
These emails are not a substitute for healthcare. These emails are educational only. Please consult you and your loved one’s healthcare providers for specific healthcare advice.
Author Annie Browne posts regular blogs, sharing snippets that are thought-provoking and helpful.
Annie’s books are historical fiction based upon the people who have influenced her life due to family connections. Annie considers our personalities are formed by both genetic and behavioural influences.
Journeys of the Fortune Seekers four-book series is available on all ebook and paperback web sites.
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