Starting conversations about dementia!

Conversations around dementia may not be easy, but they are incredibly important. Whether you’re a carer or living with dementia yourself, knowing you’re not alone in what you’re experiencing can make a huge difference. And if you know someone who cares for a loved one with dementia, giving them opportunities to talk can take some of the weight off their shoulders.

Why is it important to talk about dementia?

There is often stigma surrounding dementia, which may make it challenging to talk to others about the condition. People may assume that someone living with dementia can’t maintain a normal conversation, or that they don’t want to talk about their diagnosis. And therefore, the relationship trails off.

“One difficult thing I’ve had to deal with since my diagnosis is people dropping off due to them not really knowing how to handle me or my condition. People carry preconceptions on what a diagnosis of dementia will do to someone, and out of fear, worry or another reason, they slowly (or sometimes quickly) withdraw from your life.”

Julie, who is living with young onset dementia

For carers too, relationships can fall by the wayside when loved ones don’t know how to talk or hear about the impact dementia is having on their life.

“I didn’t talk to any of my friends about what was going on – partly because I didn’t really know how to talk about it, but also because I just wanted to be treated normally.”

Elliott, whose dad had young onset Alzheimer’s disease

Talking with other people about dementia can help to break this stigma.

If you have a family member or friend who is living with dementia or caring for someone with the condition, simply checking in on them can help them feel less alone. It lets them know that you’re there for them, to offer practical help or a listening ear if they need it.

“Ask what you can do. It might just be doing the shopping or collecting the children from school. It might be cooking the family dinner once a week or giving them some respite, if that’s possible.”

Catherine, whose friend’s husband has young onset dementia

While it’s not always possible to talk in person with family and friends, there are alternatives, such as having a phone or video call. Dementia support groups and cafés can also be a great opportunity to share experiences with people affected by dementia.

For the full article & more advice click here –Starting conversations about dementia – Dementia UK