Getting diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another related form of dementia is a big change and can be overwhelming for the individual and their loved ones. Accepting it can be difficult, but moving forward is possible.

How can I help my loved one move towards acceptance?

It’s not uncommon for people newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s to be in denial

Kim Bailey, a Programs & Education Specialist at Alzheimer’s Orange County, explained that some degree of denial is normal for people who just received a diagnosis.

“The thing about denial is, it’s a shield. It shields people from a shock that’s too great to bear all at once,” Bailey said.

So what should you do? Give them time to accept this new adjustment.

“We need to be gentle and not ‘hit them over the head’ constantly with their new diagnosis.”

In order to support your loved one going through denial it is very important to have lots of patience, validation, and reassurance. Roll with the punches, and take care of their needs as they progress. It may not always be easy and you don’t have to be perfect, but your efforts will go a long way to making it easier to accept the journey and moving ahead step by step.

How do I help my loved one accept the care they need?

Helping your loved one stay on top of their health may require additional doctor’s visits.

If you’re loved one is resistant try some of the following tips:

  • Keep your explanations brief and concise
  • Refer to the appointment as a regular checkup
  • If that doesn’t work, you could say to them, “Would you do this for me because I want you to be healthy. I want us both to be healthy.”

You may have to get creative and use little fibs to get your loved one to their appointment. For additional help, call the Alzheimer’s Orange County helpline at 844-373-4400 to talk to a Dementia Care Specialist for free, one-on-one support.

 

 

Related Information:

“I Don’t Need to See a Doctor” Caregiver Topic Sheet:
Discover additional tips on how to deal with your loved one when they refuse to go to the doctor. Read more.

Ask The Expert: What Can I do to Understand What My Loved One is Experiencing:
Gain a better understanding on how cognitive changes affect someone’s senses and what you do to understand them. Read more.

A Fresh Approach to Resistant to Care Webinar:
Watch this insightful webinar to how you can enhance your approach when the person you care for is resistant to care.  Watch here.