Dementia Support: Are You Missing the Boat?
Have you ever failed to take advantage of an opportunity by acting too slowly and “missed the boat?” Perhaps, the inaction occurred because you failed to fully grasp the significance of the opportunity or did not realize the benefits.
Failing to seize opportunities is a common human experience and depending on the missed opportunity, the results can be life changing. For example, many people feel they “missed the boat” by not saving money early in life, and struggle after leaving the work force and sadly live with much regret.
When referring to dementia support, it is estimated that 80% to 90% of family members “miss the boat” to provide a life of quality for their family member by failing to take advantage of learning crucial knowledge and effective support strategies. When supporting a family member with a dementia at home, the care you provide will determine the person’s health outcomes and well-being. You are responsible for the person receiving proper supervision, medical care they need, nutritious meals, and creating opportunities for socialization, physical activity and enjoying the outdoors.
However, because of overwhelming responsibilities, it can be easy to fall into a pattern of unintentional “passive neglect” by not meeting those responsibilities, resulting in dangerous situations such as leaving your family member home alone, knowing it is unsafe. Other types of passive neglect can include disregarding a prescribed treatment such as physical therapy, because you didn’t see the benefits, or denying your family member opportunities for socialization and isolating at home.
“Missing the boat” by neglecting opportunities to learn and practice skills necessary to ensure your family member receives the best possible care can result in long lasting chronic regrets and rumination that can cause significant emotional distress down the road.
So be proactive and don’t miss the boat!
If you would like more information on our Memory Ministry, Memory Cafe, Family and Friends Education Workshops or need tips for supporting persons living with memory loss, please contact Vicky Pitner, Memory Ministry Coordinator.