50% of us say they don’t feel confident having this kind of discussion and the conversation can be made even more difficult if they are already showing signs of Alzheimer’s or are worried and in denial.
Raising the Issue of Alzheimer’s can be a difficult experience, here are some helpful suggestions:
- Be Empathetic – Use non judgemental language to put them at ease.
- Highlight the fact you care about them as the reason for you raising the issue
- Be honest with them
- Be tactful and ask how they are feeling about their memory
- Don’t create a sense of blame. Rather than telling them they can’t make a cup of coffee, tell then you have noticed they find it difficult to make a cup of coffee
- Once your relative begins to open up about recent memory loss or other symptoms, it’s then really good to be positive and make a plan of action together. This will reduce the feelings of isolation and will make them feel like they are not facing Alzheimer’s alone.
During the conversation don’t be upset if they are in denial and refuse to accept what you have said. If they are frightened or confused, this kind of reaction is completely normal. However if you are able to give examples of situations that you are concerned about then this may help.
Listening to their concerns is also really important. They may initially find this very awkward and difficult to talk about, so allow a lot of time to listen and draw them out.
Questions to Ask
- You seem worried; can I talk to you about it?
- You don’t seem yourself today, how are you feeling?
- I really want to help you, what are you finding difficult at the moment?
- I am always here to talk, Id really like to hear how you’re feeling at the moment?
- Can we talk for a bit about how things are for you?
You can then have more peace of mind, knowing they are receiving the correct level of care for the condition of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
More information can be found here at the Alzheimer’s Society website.