A New Way to Navigate Conversations Around Dementia

There’s no easy way to give or receive a dementia diagnosis. It is the start of a difficult rollercoaster of emotions, which are heightened if the diagnosis is presented starkly, without compassion or empathy. There are steps physicians can (and should) take when having conversations around dementia to ease the initial impact, empowering and equipping the individual and family with knowledge and support.

Here are some of the ways doctors are striving to improve the way they speak about dementia, and why it matters.

1. Knowledge Is Power: Many doctors are leading their conversations around dementia with education, arming patients and families with knowledge. By explaining the condition in accessible language and providing resources for further learning, they empower individuals to better navigate the journey ahead. There’s also an emphasis on the need for proactive measures, such as lifestyle adjustments and early intervention strategies, to optimize quality of life and delay the progression of the disease.
2. Empathy First: Doctors are now trying to open with empathy, as opposed to jumping right to medical jargon and statistics. They acknowledge the emotional impact of a dementia diagnosis and strive to create a safe space for individuals and their family members to convey their concerns and fears. Along with this empathetic approach, physicians are also supporting open discussion about the practical aspects of managing dementia, including daily routines and available support services.
3. Building Supportive Networks: Families are getting connected to resources and support networks through their doctors more often. Whether it’s specialized services, caregiver support groups, or dementia-friendly activities, these networks provide vital emotional and practical support throughout the dementia journey. Physicians should also be advocating for the involvement of family caregivers in care planning and decision-making, recognizing their invaluable role in providing continuity of care and enhancing the person’s quality of life.
4. Person-Centered Care: Recognizing that every person’s experience with dementia is unique, doctors are shifting towards a person-centered approach to care. Ideally, they are engaging patients in conversations about their values, goals, and preferences, making sure care plans are customized to the person’s needs and wishes. This personalized approach extends beyond medical treatment to cover holistic support, including emotional well-being and social connectedness, fostering a sense of dignity and autonomy.
5. Ongoing Communication: Conversations around dementia may start with the diagnosis, but they continue long after that. Doctors should be dedicated to ongoing communication with patients and families, providing updates on the progression of the disease, discussing treatment options, and offering support every step of the way. This ongoing discussion fosters collaboration and trust, empowering individuals and their families to make educated decisions and adjust to the evolving challenges of dementia caregiving.

If you’ve noticed signs of the early stages of dementia in a senior you love, or if they’ve recently been diagnosed, it is essential to find a health care provider who follows best practices such as these. It’s equally important to partner with a home care provider with specialized expertise in the unique needs of caring for someone with dementia.

At Sage Home Care, our dementia support team is fully trained and well known as the experts in Pawling, Somers, South Salem, and the surrounding communities. Our creative approach promotes respect, independence, and dignity. E-mail us or call us at 800-578-4554 to find out more.