Did your parent get a dementia diagnosis? If so, you may be worried beyond belief. Your thoughts may be running wild. It may be a shock. You might be scared, frustrated, overwhelmed, and concerned. You may not know what to say when your parent gets this diagnosis. However, this guide will help you to handle the situation better.
Elderly Care Manhattan NY – Knowing What to Say When Your Parent Gets a Dementia Diagnosis
Getting More Prepared
Before you talk in-depth with your elderly loved one about their dementia diagnosis, be as prepared as you can be. Talk to their doctor about the diagnosis. Find out what stage of dementia your parent is in. Learn about all the ways that you can support them. Make sure to give your parent the time they need to process their diagnosis, as well. Being prepared ahead of time can make things a bit easier when you have the conversation with your parent.
Work on a Plan
Let your parent know that you are working on making a plan. You will get the care that they need. Talk to them to see what type of care they would want. If they would prefer that family members take care of them, talk to other family members to see what you can come up with. If they would prefer that elderly care providers take care of them, contact elderly care companies to see what you can set up.
Watch Your Tone
When you are talking to your parent about their dementia diagnosis, pay attention to your tone. Keep your words steady and don’t pause in between each of your sentences. It might help to practice what you are going to say ahead of time. Yes, you may be emotional when you talk to your parent. However, the more steady you can keep the conversation and the less quivering in your voice, the better the conversation can go.
Listen to Your Parent
While you may have plenty that you want to say to your parent about their diagnosis, be sure you listen to them, as well. This is their life and it is affecting them. They may need to express themselves. Be sure that you listen to their concerns and feelings fully. Let your parent know that you are there for them.
If your parent has a dementia diagnosis, you might not know what to say. However, if you can follow these tips, you can have a better conversation with your parent about their diagnosis.
Sources: https://www.health.qld.gov.au/news-events/news/dementia-signs-symptoms-recognise-what-to-do
