Key Tips For Helping An Aging Loved One With Dementia

Has your aging loved one recently found out that he or she has dementia? Is your loved one concerned, anxious or scared about this diagnosis? In fact, these emotions can be even more harmful to your loved one’s mental health. We know that this is a difficult time for you and your loved one. We would like to share some key tips for helping your loved one cope with his or her memory loss.

Stay positive, supportive and encouraging. If your loved one forgets something that you or a family member said, try not to correct your loved one because you may do more harm than good. You do not want your loved one to feel judged or embarrassed and shut down. You, your family and friends of your loved one should take steps to be encouraging and supportive. Watching your loved one suffer from memory loss is frustrating, but it is important to remember to try to make him or her feel safe and loved. Your loved one cannot help this condition, and it is vital that he or she has your support.

Minimize the impact by using key strategies. Tasks can become a habit and less easy to forget if you can help your loved one establish routines. For example, always brush your teeth after every meal. Purchase a small notebook for your loved one and encourage him or her to write down important events and information that can be carried around so that your loved one has key information should a memory lapse occur.

Make an appointment for your loved one with an estate planning attorney. We know you and your loved one are busy but it is important to meet with an estate planning attorney to discuss elder care concerns and estate planning issues. Meeting now while your loved one is still able to do so is crucial to estate planning. If an estate plan is not put in place and your loved one suffering from memory loss becomes so impaired that he or she is unable to make sound decisions, estate planning and long-term care may be much more difficult to establish.

When your family or financial health is on the line, trust attorney Paul Riffel to help you protect your interests and achieve your goals. Attorney Paul Riffel has been practicing law in Florida for over 40 years, focusing in the areas of Tampa estate planning and family law. We encourage you to contact us and schedule a meeting with us.