A dementia diagnosis is no small thing. It’s a profoundly life-changing situation, and affects a myriad number of people, not just the individual who’s diagnosed. Dementia is still often misunderstood, and many people are afraid of developing it or having someone they love diagnosed with it. So it’s not uncommon for people to push warning signs of dementia to the side in the hopes that they go away, says Reshma Nair, Executive Director of Bridges® by EPOCH at Andover, a memory care assisted living community in Andover, MA.

“Just like you would go to the doctor if you suspected you had cancer or another life-changing illness, it’s essential to get checked out as early as possible to determine if you or your loved one has dementia,” Reshma says. “Ignoring the problem will actually make the situation worse. Early detection of dementia is essential, not just to help the individual plan for the future, but also to have the best chance of slowing the progression of the disease.”

While nothing can stop the progression of dementia, Reshma says, there are medications that are effective in the early stages that can help an individual manage the disease in a beneficial way. Unfortunately, many people tend to hold off on a diagnosis until the issue becomes too much to overlook, in which case those medications aren’t effective.

“It’s my hope that someday the stigma and fear of dementia will lessen and people won’t be afraid to seek out the help they need when they notice worrisome behaviors,” she says. “Even though it’s hard to hear that you or a loved one have a life-changing condition, the news can also be a relief in a way. Understanding what’s happening to you or your loved one can provide clarity for the future and open the door to treatments, plans and future care. It allows individuals to plan ahead, make important decisions about their care, and continue to enjoy their life to the fullest.”

Control and choice.

An early diagnosis of dementia gives the gift of time – time to process the diagnosis as well as time to set plans in place for the future. In the early stages of dementia, many individuals are still able to live independently and be responsible for their decisions. It’s the perfect stage for an individual to put together a care team and appoint powers of attorney, because he or she will be able to relay wishes for the future in the clearest possible way. In other words, it gives the individual more control and more empowerment to make decisions for themselves.

A higher quality of life.

As mentioned, an early diagnosis opens the door to a variety of services, support and treatment that can help people take control of their dementia and slow the progression of the disease as much as possible. While certain medications can help, there are many lifestyle changes that people can make to improve their cognitive functioning and remain as healthy as possible. Eating well, getting enough exercise and managing health conditions all can benefit a person with dementia. A wellness-focused lifestyle can help avoid other health complications that could exacerbate dementia symptoms or lead to hospitalization.

Better treatment.

“Dementia” is not just one disease. Rather, it’s a catch-all term for a wide variety of diseases that all manifest in progressive, cognitive decline. There are five common types of dementia, but that doesn’t mean they’re the only types. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common, followed by vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s dementia and Lewy body dementia. Understanding what type of dementia you or a loved one has can help healthcare professionals to provide the best care and support.

The opportunity to make memories.

A dementia diagnosis naturally splits a life up into two distinct parts: before diagnosis and after diagnosis. But a diagnosis doesn’t suddenly mean that an individual can no longer make decisions, do the things they love or form new and meaningful connections with those they love. In fact, after the initial feelings and emotions around the diagnosis have had a chance to simmer, many family members have found that their relationship with their loved one has become deeper, more meaningful and richer following the diagnosis.

“Many people see this as an opportunity to make every day count,” says Reshma. “This can be a very beautiful thing for the person diagnosed with dementia as well as their family members. They have the opportunity to focus on their relationships, have meaningful conversations and do the things they love together. While ultimately those memories will fade for the person with dementia, the family will still be able to remember them, and that love and happiness will carry everyone through the journey together.”

Peace of mind.

Finally, an early diagnosis provides peace of mind for families and individuals alike. For family members, there’s a peace of mind that comes from knowing what’s ahead – the future is no longer quite as uncertain or scary. It also means that you know what your loved one’s wishes are, and you’ll be able to follow them when the time comes. It means you won’t have to wonder whether he or she would want to move into a certain community over another – that decision has already been made. For individuals, there’s a peace of mind that comes from knowing that you’ve helped take those decisions off the shoulders of your loved ones. Having that certainty can help both parties embrace the journey ahead in the most positive manner possible.

“Change is scary, but it can also be freeing,” says Reshma. “An early diagnosis can truly be a positive way for you and your family to determine the best possible path forward.”

Exceptional Care. Engaging Lifestyle.

Bridges® by EPOCH at Andover provides specialized memory care in an assisted living environment that is comfortable, positive and welcoming. Built solely to care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, Bridges® by EPOCH at Andover creates a wellness-focused, engaging lifestyle that respects individual preferences, focuses on residents’ abilities and creates meaning in daily life.

Dedicated Memory Care.

Through every stage of memory loss, residents and their families have complete peace of mind. Our compassionate dementia care and unique programs are tailored to meet the physical, cognitive and emotional needs of each resident wherever they are on their own journey, allowing them to age in place safely, comfortably and with dignity.

Supportive, Purpose-Built Design.

Featuring a stunning residential design, Bridges® by EPOCH at Andover is much more than a beautiful place to live; it’s a community where residents’ lives are enriched and families enjoy meaningful moments together. Our research-based design features soft colors and lighting, directional cues, aromatherapy and interactive life-enrichment stations that empower residents to explore their homes with confidence.

 Contact us today to learn more.