How to Keep a Positive Mindset After a Dementia Diagnosis
Those wondering how to keep a positive mindset after a dementia diagnosis should stay socially connected with their community, focus on what they can still do, create calm, comforting daily routines, and engage in activities that bring joy and purpose. This is all possible at Discovery Village Clear Lake in Webster, TX.
According to Alzheimer's Disease International, someone in the world develops dementia every 3 seconds, and by 2030, there will be 78 million people in the world living with dementia. It can be scary receiving such a diagnosis, especially if you're afraid of losing pieces of yourself in old age.
While there's no cure for this disease, there are dementia coping tips that can make the years more comfortable for seniors in Webster, TX. We'll show you how to handle this diagnosis and also how to keep a positive mindset as you navigate these years.
What To Do After a Dementia Diagnosis?
A dementia diagnosis can be daunting, and it may feel like the world's crashing down on you. But remember to be kind to yourself, and take a deep breath.
One of the first things you should do is learn as much as possible about the specific type of dementia you have and how it may progress. Also, have follow-up appointments with your doctors to create a care plan that includes:
- Medications
- Lifestyle adjustments
- Strategies for maintaining cognitive abilities
While you can, you should organize important legal and financial documents too. That way, your wishes are clear, even when the disease progresses.
How To Stay Positive With Dementia?
It's easy to get into a negative mindset once you receive a dementia diagnosis. But positive aging with dementia is possible. Here's how.
Stay Socially Connected With Your Community
Having strong social connections is one of the most powerful ways to stay positive. When you're engaging with neighbors and participating in group activities, it's hard to feel isolated, and you'll almost certainly be in a good mood!
There are also memory-friendly programs that support cognitive health while you share fun experiences with other residents.
Focus on What You Can Still Do
A dementia diagnosis doesn't mean everything's gone immediately. So focus on your strengths.
You can do familiar hobbies, such as gardening, crafting, or light exercise. As time goes by, you can adapt these activities so they remain manageable and enjoyable.
Whatever you choose, celebrate small victories, as this will reinforce your confidence and take your mind off uncertainties.
Create Calm, Comforting Daily Routines
Daily routines are essential for dementia since they bring structure, security, and predictability. Luckily, these are easy to stick to in senior living communities, as there are consistent schedules for:
- Meals
- Activities
- Exercise
- Rest
When you know what's coming up next, you'll have significantly less anxiety and confusion. You'll feel more in control and less overwhelmed by change.
Being in a calm and soothing environment helps too. With soft lighting, relaxing music, and uncluttered spaces, you'll get a sense of peace, which boosts senior mental health.
Engage in Activities That Bring Joy and Purpose
The easiest way to stay positive is to engage in activities that spark happiness and meaning. To stay emotionally fulfilled, try things like:
- Art classes
- Book discussions
- Fitness programs
- Religious services
Don't dismiss simple pleasures either, such as spending time outdoors listening to favorite music, or sharing stories with fellow residents. These can all bring comfort and joy.
What Are Coping Skills for Dementia Patients?
Coping skills for dementia patients focus on reducing stress and maintaining independence while enhancing emotional well-being. For example, you can use simple memory aids, like:
- Calendars
- Labeled drawers
- Daily checklists
Relying on caregivers for reassurance and support is also key, especially as dementia progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Quickly Does Dementia Progress After Diagnosis?
Dementia progression after diagnosis will depend on the type of dementia, as well as the person's:
- Overall health
- Age
- How early the condition is detected
In general, most dementia types progress gradually over several years. Early-stage symptoms are mild for a few years, but in the middle stage, they become more noticeable (2-4 years). Late-stage dementia may set in soon after that.
What Is the Average Lifespan After a Dementia Diagnosis?
A study done by Bruck et al., published in The BMJ, found that the average life expectancy after a dementia diagnosis is 9 years at age 60 to 4.5 years at age 85 for women, and 6.5 to just over 2 years, respectively, in men. Factors that affect lifespan are:
- Type of dementia
- Overall health
- Medical care
- Lifestyle
- Social engagement
How To Strengthen the Brain Against Dementia?
To strengthen the brain against dementia, you'll need to adopt habits that protect cognitive health and support overall well-being. You can start with regular physical exercise, as this helps improve blood flow to the brain and reduce inflammation.
Also, stay mentally active through:
- Puzzles
- Reading
- Learning new skills
- Engaging in creative hobbies
To further support long-term cognitive function, do the following:
- Eat a nutritious diet
- Get quality sleep
- Manage chronic conditions
- Stay socially connected
- Reduce stress
How To Make Life Easier With Dementia?
To make life easier with dementia, simplify daily routines and create a supportive environment. Clear and predictable schedules can really help with anxiety and confusion, so use this as early-stage dementia support.
Memory care can be helpful as well. There are trained staff members to ensure you're safe and comfortable, and you'll experience great emotional wellness in memory care.
Know How to Keep a Positive Mindset in Life
When you know how to keep a positive mindset after receiving a dementia diagnosis, it'll be easier to tackle anything in life. It's important to have a good support network, as they'll be the people to hold you up when things get tough.
To get consistent support, consider moving into a memory care community. Not only can you receive expert care from the staff, but also receive companionship from fellow residents.
To find out more about senior living in Webster, TX, get in touch with us now. Discovery Village Clear Lake has two Sensations dining rooms where residents can enjoy healthy and delicious meals daily.