This is a three-factor page.
One hears a lot about dementia as a journey. It starts with considerations such as -
The importance of early diagnosis and intervention in dementia - on the left here.
The list includes other aspects of the journey. Not all items are germaine to our theme here.
Once carers new to dementia have a broad picture of the caree situation, they can progress to more detail.
Risk assessment is vital. Your GP and other health care professionals (HCPs) can help. However, it is the carer who carries the immediate can in the everyday context.
Let's look at "carer" in the overall context of care provision within family and friends context.
In our theme here there are three important categories of unpaid carers:
- Aware carers
- Unaware carers
- Refusal carers
Aware carers are on the ball, think things, do things, follow up,
Unaware carers have much to do re Group 1.
Refusal carers are in denial that any problem exists. "Oh, it's just old-age taking its grip."
Group 3 presents the biggest problem to HCPs.
HCPs ask everyone questions such as:
- A Are you both on the same journey?
- B What risks do you envisage?
- C What responsibilities do you assume?
B can involve you dealing with events such as this.
Carry out risk assessment in the care setting. This will involve identifying hazards, quantifying the degree of risk and developing control measures to minimise the risk. Ask your HCPs to assist.
They will, however, rightfully consider that you have thought about some basics:
Ensure that the caree
- P will not engage in cooking or shed-work/gardening involving mechanical items
- Q will receive medication as prescribed
- R WILL NOT BE LEFT ALONE
Alone needs definition
New/temporary carers must be
- X adult (or 16 or more but within family/close friend grouping)
- Y within our culture/subculture
- Z capable of giving immediate help and phoning 999
Risk to others
What risk does the caree presentto others?
1. Verbal violence?
2. Physical violence
3. Other antisocial behaviour
- Nuisance
- Social avoidance - isolationist
- Personal hygiene - not exactly behaviour but a factor
The dementia journey
- Navigation
- Mapping
- Other aspects
In conclusion
There is no conclusion to this page.
There's more to be done.
Carer group discussion must follow.
The page is not exhaustive.
Dementia care is exhausting.
Let's share the burden and make it bearable.
pagetop here
Strategy here
