List of different techniques that can be used to facilitate positive interactions with an individual with dementia?

·        Make sure person is conscious (Not sleeping)

·        Noise free environment

·        Be patient

·        Use of gesture, writings, cards and pictures if required

·        Use clear, short and simple phrases for conversation

·        Repeat conversation if required

·        Nod gently when person is replying or trying to reply

Identify ways of working that can help improve partnership working

Identify skills and approaches needed for resolving conflicts

 By Md. Foisal Miah Talukdar

 

Why must dementia not be viewed as disability? (Give example)

People with dementia can live active and fulfilled lives with little assistance from others or assistive technology. They experience emotion like everybody else. They have their identity, a history of present, past and future. They are aware of their independence and dignity. Treatment for dementia is also under development. Treatable disease or treatment under research cannot be described, defined or explained as disability.

Example: Mrs A has difficulties in remembering her daily tasks. A simple note can help her to remember her daily tasks. Gentle reminder (from alarm clock to our daily note) required in every person’s life even without dementia. Mrs A is not different from us. Picture, cards and facial expression may help a person to communicate if someone have communication problems.

By Md. Foisal Miah Talukdar

Assignment 2.1: Case Study

2.1

 Aggy is 82 years old and has lived in the location where you work for 2 and half years. Recently, Aggy has become very forgetful, appears confused and is sometimes unable to recognise her daughter or her surroundings. Aggy's daughter is very upset by the recent changes to her mother's health and is convinced that she is now living with dementia.

2.1

·    How will a diagnosis be achieved for Aggy?

Aggy’s diagnosis for dementia can only be achieved by her GP. Aggy’s Friend, family member or carer should contact her GP for early diagnosis as soon as the symptoms are appearing.

·   What consideration will medical professionals use when carrying out Aggy’s diagnosis?

Medical professional should consider Aggy’s symptoms, age, other medical history, cognitive skills, psychiatric evaluation, recent medications, depression, relationship status and social status etc. Medical professional should also consider the following causes for her forgetfulness, confusion and disorientation in order to determine the right cause:

Ø  Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

Ø  An overactive and underactive thyroid gland

Ø  Dehydration

Ø  Poor Nutrition

Ø  Side effect of continued medication

Ø  Urinary tract infection

Also other symptoms like depression, melancholy and stress

 

level should be examined.

·   What medication could be prescribed for Aggy and what desired effect would this have?

There is no cure for dementia. But various medications and therapies doctors use to delay the progress of dementia. In aggy’s case doctors may prescribe anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medication along with other psychological therapies such as cognitive stimulation therapy.

·    How would medication help Aggy?

Cognitive stimulation therapy involves taking part in various activities and exercises which can improve aggy’s thinking and memory skills. It also helps to regain self-esteem. Sedative drug may help her to better sleep if the cause is arises from sleep disturbance. Also anti-depressant medication helps person to relaxing mode.

By Md. Foisal Miah Talukdar