January 2021

Caring for someone with dementia can be upsetting and demanding, for both the sufferer and their loved ones. Providing care for someone living with dementia requires a deep level of compassion and understanding, as well as a specialist medical help. Abacus Care & Support has worked with and for dementia patients for many years and strive to provide them with a happy, healthy quality of life. What is Dementia? Dementia itself isn’t a singular condition but refers to progressive damage to the brain cortex (the ‘thinking’ part of the brain). There are over 100 types of dementia, the most common of which is Alzheimer’s Disease. Different types of Dementia affect different parts of the brain, but symptoms commonly include: Memory loss Speech deficiency Poor judgment – ie. the inability to differentiate between hot and cold, how to navigate social situations or what is considered appropriate or normal behaviour Disorientation Stunted senses – ie. a loose sense of touch or the inability to smell Incontinence Confusion and aggression. There is currently no cure for Dementia, but there are treatments available to help prolong a good quality of life and delay its onset. How does Dementia Care differ from standard care services? Many people require some form of care as they age, become unwell or live with a disability. Dementia care varies from this somewhat, as it’s more specialist. Abacus Care & Support Dementia carers understand the following: Caring for someone with Dementia can be unpredictable – they’re able to adapt to all situations using their professional skill set and previous experience Dementia treatment is not linear – there are ups and downs, and good days and bad days. Knowing this and working with each service user as an individual allows for Abacus Dementia carers to offer comfort as required to both their patients and their loved ones Dementia can affect one\’s normal emotional response – even when aggressive, those living with dementia require compassion, reassurance, and kindness. Abacus Dementia carers are well known for really bringing a human touch with them into their work and not keeping care impersonal Lucid moments need to be treated with the utmost care – some people living with Dementia have periods of lucidity, where they understand that they’re unwell and that they’re suffering. This can be extremely upsetting for them. Abacus Dementia carers are expertly trained in how to deal with these situations and can soothe and reassure patients in the most effective way. Support available for the loved ones of those with Dementia We are always on-hand to discuss care requirements and to answer any questions you may have about your loved one’s condition. We are passionate about working with your family rather than just for them in order to deliver the best possible care service. Together, we can ensure that those living with Dementia can continue to lead the happiest, healthiest, most fulfilled lives possible. **For information about Abacus Care & Supports’ care services please call us on 07934498020/ 02071001680 or email us at enquiries@abacuscaresupport.co.uk.