Ashton Manor, in Luling, is a quiet residential area near New Orleans and the ideal setting for seniors needing a tranquil environment, such as those facing cognitive decline.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, around one in every nine seniors has a dementia diagnosis.
Getting a diagnosis from a healthcare professional can be a life-changing and emotional moment. It’s also the time when you or your loved one may have a lot of decisions about your future, and in particular, care plans.
In this guide, we’ll explore more about a dementia prognosis, what to expect, and how to plan for the future.
Receiving a Dementia Prognosis
There is no doubting the emotional impact of receiving a dementia diagnosis. Today, it remains a difficult prognosis to hear, and patients face the prospect of a progressive condition for which there is no known cure.
Dementia is a condition that impacts cognitive functions, including memory, thinking, and daily functioning. However, as it is progressive, an early diagnosis doesn’t necessarily mean full-time care is required. It does, however, demand that families consider the future.
The most crucial step is getting that first formal diagnosis.
The Stages of Dementia
Dementia is progressive, and medical professionals have helped split this condition into stages to make it easier for patients to understand how it changes. It can help with care planning, too.
Here are the three stages.
Early Stage Dementia
Memory loss in the stages of dementia may be mild cognitive decline. It could be small symptoms that, without a diagnosis, can be mistaken for forgetfulness. Your loved one might forget names, words, or appointments, and they may misplace items.
Middle Stage Dementia
As a patient progresses from early to middle-stage dementia, symptoms become more noticeable. Daily tasks like dressing, meals, and medication might become harder to manage, and a loved one might experience confusion. Sometimes, that confusion can lead to behavioral and mood changes like anger.
Late Stage Dementia
The later stage of dementia has the most profound impact on a loved one; you may find that communication becomes limited, and mobility might be more difficult. Full-time care is required at this stage.
Loved ones may find comfort in familiar faces, music, and routines, even when they can’t remember names. Small steps to connect can ensure quality of life for dementia patients.
The Early Stages of Dementia: Spotting the Symptoms
Perhaps you or your loved one have yet to have a formal diagnosis of dementia.
If that’s the case, it’s vital to understand some of the early symptoms to take action and book an appointment with a medical professional. Early formal diagnosis helps you or your loved one get the best and most appropriate support. Early symptoms include:
- Repeating questions or retelling stories
- Misplacing items in the house
- Struggling to follow conversations
- Losing track of time
- Withdrawing from social activities
- Confusion in familiar places
- Change in personality
It’s common for loved ones to put these symptoms down to tiredness, stress, or aging. Sometimes, small acts of forgetfulness are just that. Nevertheless, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and book a formal assessment.
After a Diagnosis: Emotional and Practical Challenges of Dementia Care Planning
A dementia diagnosis can leave you with many questions and also many emotions.
If you are hearing about the diagnosis of a loved one, you might begin to wonder about some of the practical challenges you face, like caregiving responsibilities. This can often feel overwhelming, and you may experience guilt or anxiety when faced with the prospect that your loved one may need more care than you can personally give.
It can also be a busy and stressful time. A diagnosis is often the starting point for more appointments on your calendar, like looking for care or making medical appointments.
It’s crucial in these circumstances to focus on your well-being so that you have the energy and emotional strength to support your loved one. You may also benefit from seeking support from professionals who can advise you on the correct steps to take post-diagnosis.
SummerHouse Ashton Manor: Memory Care for Seniors, Luling
At SummerHouse Ashton Manor, we have a compassionate memory care option that is perfect for seniors with a dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis. It gives residents the help and support they need while enabling them to live as independently as possible and with dignity.
Our safe and structured environment makes residents feel valued and provides a familiar and enjoyable daily routine. This focus on familiarity helps alleviate some of the confusion and anxiety that can exist in residents with a dementia diagnosis.
That includes meaningful activities that help support cognitive functions, like art workshops or music therapy. Our experienced and caring staff understand the challenges that come with this diagnosis, ensuring support is tailored to the individual and their dementia stage.
Residents will also get to experience some of the wider neighborhood events near Ashton Manor, beyond the community, like visiting Lafon Performing Arts Center and the annual Alligator Festival.
Planning for the Future
There is a sense after a dementia diagnosis that the future seems uncertain. But, while dementia can create some challenges, assembling your future plans is still crucial. Here are some priorities to consider in your planning:
- Arrange legal documents, including your will and power of attorney
- Review your financial plans for senior care
- Consider any health directives in case of incapacity
Exploring memory care support at SummerHouse Ashton Manor is part of this planning process. Speaking to our experienced staff can help guide you on both the emotional and practical aspects of helping a loved one with dementia.
Dementia and Memory Care in Luling: Planning for Your Future
A dementia prognosis may feel overwhelming. Nevertheless, once you’ve processed the information, it’s vital to get started with planning your future. Compassionate memory care can be the right option for those who want to maintain their independence while getting the help they will need as they age.
SummerHouse Ashton Manor has a nationally recognized memory care program called SHINE. It’s honored by the Alzheimer’s Association and offers residents personalized care built on respect and dignity.
To find out more about our safe, secure, and compassionate senior living community in Luling, schedule a tour today.
