When you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, it might seem like the end of the world – but it’s definitely not. We talked to Paul Sullivan, CEO of Dementia NZ, about ways to live a more positive life after diagnosis.
The reality is that it’s not all doom and gloom:
It doesn’t turn you into a stranger
You’re still you, whatever your diagnosis. You might be struggling with your memory, and find it hard to concentrate and stick to plans. That doesn’t mean you’re someone else. You still love the same things and the same people, and with support and a few adjustments, you can keep enjoying your life as you always have.
With support, you can still be independent
Being diagnosed with dementia doesn’t mean you have to go into care immediately. With the right support, whether from your spouse or another family member, you can live for quite a long time in your own home. Your care person can also get support to help you live more independently for longer. As Paul explains:
“People with dementia spend most of their journey living relatively independently. Dementia NZ also works with carers – we do education, respite care, support groups and networking.”
Keep your eye on those sparks of joy
Paul admits that the language surrounding dementia is too often about loss and diminished capacity, but living life every day is much more than that. Your diagnosis doesn’t have to be your whole experience. We all have disappointments, with or without dementia, so the trick – for all of us! – is to stay focused on the everyday sparks of joy.
The important thing is to focus on what you enjoy most, whether it’s walking in the park, singing with a choir or watching your favourite TV programmes. Don’t worry about what other people have experienced – everyone is different. Just keep doing what makes you happy.
Find new ways of living well
Living with dementia means your life will change somewhat. You may need support to manage some aspects, but you don’t have to be helpless. You may just need to adapt to different ways of getting things done.
“Part of the sense of loss that can come with dementia is the loss of confidence,” says Paul. “[People are] aware that they’ve lost capacity, so they give up on doing things, and it self-perpetuates.”
Reach out for help, so you can stay doing the things you love – and those everyday normal things! – for as long as possible.
Don’t worry – be happy!
A dementia diagnosis doesn’t mean all enjoyment of life is over and you must immediately go into care. You are still yourself, and all the things that make you smile and laugh are still there to experience.
Make the most of your care and support to stay independent for longer. Above all keep focusing on the positive. Remember there are still sparks of joy in the world to help you enjoy life every day.