Dementia - The Emotional Rollercoaster
An array of emotions
For many, dementia is an emotional roller coaster, an array of emotions – some you never knew you had. Many twists and turns of uncertainties and the unexpected and making difficult decisions. Finding the energy and courage to build happy memories along the way and smile at the people who ask “How are you today?” or “How’s your Mum?”.
Having someone you can trust
From my own experience and from the many people I support, just having someone you trust who is impartial, who you know it’s safe to talk to about the emotional demands, the daily challenges, and the freedom to just “Be You”, is what makes the days easier to cope with.
Three top tips
Here are three top tips which carers have kindly shared with me, which I think you will find helpful.
1. Learn as much as you can.
With knowledge comes understanding and empathy. Join courses, meet people, and ask questions (even the ones you think are silly).
2. Reach out for support.
The health and social care system can be complex and, for some, difficult to navigate in knowing the right people to speak to. There will always be support, information and people to talk to, either in person, online or by telephone. Most local councils have an online directory, social services, carers centres, national charities have helplines. I have a free dementia resource with web links and contact details. Contact me if you would like a copy.
3. Give yourself permission to take care of yourself.
Not always easy, I hear you say, when you’re supporting others. Before you know it, you’re worn out. Seek out support with respite or find someone to sit with the person you care for. Taking time for yourself to do whatever it is that brings you joy and gives your head and body time to escape the usual routine is important. Even if it’s a cup of tea in the garden, listening to the birds. You are equally as important as the person you support.
Stay up-to-date
For more helpful tips and sharing of information that support carers and people living with dementia you can sign up to my mailing list – just drop me an email to say you’re interested. Plus feel free to follow my Facebook page and/or join my group.
Check out my resources page here (Full resources coming soon) .
About Lancashire Dementia Training and Consultancy
Lancashire Dementia Training and Consultancy is an organisation run by Rachel Yates Hoyles, who has first-hand experience of supporting a family member living with dementia, plus years of training and experience in this field.
“We hear so much these days about dementia and probably all know a person and family that is affected. There are 850,000 people with dementia in the UK, with numbers set to rise to over 1 million by 2025 and 2 million by 2051.
“225,000 people will develop dementia this year, that’s one every three minutes. Lancashire currently has over 10,300 people with a dementia diagnosis of which two thirds of people live at home.”
Rachel is passionate about raising awareness of dementia and sharing dementia knowledge to empower others.
She offers a range of training and consultancy sessions which are bespoke to you, your staff and/or service needs. She uses a flexible and friendly approach and can adapt learning sessions and conversations to encourage a positive and fun, learning and inspiring culture that supports creativity and innovation.