Caring for a loved one with dementia can be overwhelming, but it can also be a journey of transformation. Kate experienced this firsthand with her mother, Ruth. At first, Kate felt lost and frustrated as her once-clear conversations with Ruth turned into arguments. It seemed like nothing she did was right, and she began to question her ability to care for her mom.
But everything changed when Kate began to truly understand dementia. She learned that dementia progresses in stages—early, middle, and late—and each stage brings unique challenges. In the early stages, Ruth’s memory started to slip, and she became easily confused. As time went on, Ruth struggled more with communication, which led to misunderstandings.
The breakthrough for Kate came when she started paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues. She realized that when her mom repeatedly said she wanted to “go home,” it wasn’t about a physical place—it was about seeking comfort and safety. By listening beyond words and noticing Ruth’s body language and expressions, Kate learned how to meet her mom’s needs more effectively.
The result? Fewer arguments, more connection, and a sense of control that Kate hadn’t felt before. By understanding the stages of dementia and tuning into her mother’s unique way of communicating, Kate transformed their relationship.
If you’re caring for a loved one with dementia, remember that their behavior is a form of communication. Take the time to learn the signs, listen carefully, and meet them where they are. For more tips and support, consider joining a community like WPNSCareSync, where you’ll find personalized advice and resources to help you on this journey.