Publication
Facing Dementia
Section Three: How will dementia affect you?
Having dementia means that you will need to come to terms with changes in your life. These gradual changes may be hard for you to think about or accept. But if you know what to expect, you have the chance to plan and to think about how your will cope. One woman with dementia said, 'I'd always rather know what's likely to happen?that way at least I can make plans'.
At first, you may have trouble finding words, finishing thoughts, following directions or remembering names or other information. You may get irritable and frustrated sometimes. You may feel confused and your friends and family may notice changes in your personality and behaviour.
It is a good idea to tell your family and friends what is happening to you. Then if they notice changes they will understand. You also could ask your doctor to discuss the effects of your illness with your family.
You will find increasing problems with remembering and thinking as time goes on. Reading and writing will gradually become more difficult, and it will be harder to take in new information and make decisions.
Later you will find your everyday activities difficult. You will begin to have trouble with tasks such as remembering appointments and shopping lists,coping with money and cooking. Eventually, you may need help with basic activities such as washing, dressing and eating.
These changes are very gradual. You may stay the same for months or years. Every person with dementia is different. It is impossible to predict when changes will occur. Although it may become difficult to continue some of our usual activities, you may re-discover other things to enjoy; for example, sorting out your family photographs, gardening or listening to music.
Summary
You may stay the same for months or even years.
There will be gradual changes to your abilities.
Tell your family and friends what is happening to you.