If you are already diagnosed with dementia, it is important to do all you can to maintain your quality of life. You can do this by complying with your doctor’s treatments, educating yourself and your loved ones about your disease, and not giving up on life. Remember, you are not alone. Many people have experienced this and you can learn from their experiences and knowledge. Below are some tips for maintaining your quality of life.
Educate Yourself and Those Around You
Make contact with your local or state level organization (e.g., Alzheimer’s NC) as well as national organizations (e.g., the Alzheimer’s Association), as they have numerous supportive resources (including possible support groups) that can be essential to a healthy transition.
It is important to talk to the people in your life about Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss, and about the changes you may experience together. Talking about a diagnosis helps people understand your disease and learn about how they can continue to be a part of your life. Although memory disorders can change some parts of life, it does not have to change some of the most important parts of life; like continuing to enjoy each other’s company.
Live Your Life
Most people diagnosed with dementia continue to live at home even as the disease progresses. As a result, the bigger issues involve managing the household. It is important to try and continue to participate in as many activities as you can, though some activities may need to be modified to match the changing abilities of the person with a memory disorder. You can talk to your loved one about how he or she can assist you in daily activities. You can work together to gather information about caregiver services and their costs. This could include everything from housekeeping and respite care. Start keeping records that you can consult when they are needed.
Monitor Your Treatment Efficacy
It is essential to comply with your doctor’s prescribed treatment. Most often, this treatment includes medication intended to slow the progression of the disease. It is essential to annually monitor the efficacy of your medication. The MARS Treatment Optimization assessment provides your physician objective information about the efficacy of your current treatment regime. Your physician will use this information to adjust your drug and dosage if needed. Optimizing your treatment is critical to preserving your quality of life.
Get Counseling
Living with memory loss can be emotionally and physically difficult. Counseling can help. MARS provides specialized counseling for those living with memory loss. Our counseling is designed to help those living with memory loss maintain their quality of life.