Did you know that statistics show that one in three babies born in the past year will suffer from dementia? That’s more than one person per household. Therefore it is important that we understand how dementia can affect those around us. I would not say that I am an expert in this area, however, Training 2 Care has created a virtual reality experience to briefly imagine how those suffering from dementia feel and to help people understand why individuals with dementia act in how they do.
The experience distorted my sight, amplified sound, and reduced the sensitivity of my feet and hands. It took away those senses that many dementia sufferers unfortunately lose. I felt intimidated, uncomfortable, scared and very uncertain of what I should do and where I fit in, I had no purpose in that room and felt as though those around me were invading my space and were taking away my independence. I was asked to do simple tasks such as pairing socks, but this was overwhelmingly difficult with distorted senses.
Dementia sufferers can lose their sense of purpose. They may feel they require permission to do simple things such as using the bathroom, sitting down or getting out of bed in the morning. Many cannot read formulated sentences and with the best intentions may be unable to understand an appointment card or a letter.
So how can we help those suffering from dementia? Even small changes to our behaviour can make a huge difference. Dementia sufferers can determine their attitude towards you in moments, therefore we need to smile and be friendly. They may not remember your name so feel free to repeat it each time you speak to them. Use images rather than writing things down, and when you are about to speak to someone, touch their arm so they know you are there and that you are interacting with them.
O’Donnell Solicitors are here to support your legal needs and the legal needs of your loved ones at all stages of life. We offer a variety of Private Client services such as our Will writing service. A will is a simple document that allows you to decide what should happen to your assets once you are no longer here. To have a will written you must have capacity and once you lose capacity you are no longer able to make a will. We also write Lasting powers of Attorney. A Lasting Power of Attorney appoints people you choose to be in charge of your health, welfare, property, and finance if you lose the capacity to make such decisions on your own. If a loved one has already lost capacity, you may apply for a Deputyship Order, which will allow you legal control over their finances and health decisions.
The statistics speak for themselves in terms of the scale of dementia, and O’Donnell Solicitors would be happy to ensure that you are in control of your future and that you can benefit those you love when you are no longer here. We can meet with you at either of our offices in Uppermill or Lees or can arrange to meet you or your loved ones at home.
If you would like any further information or would like to book an appointment, please call us on 01457 761 320 or email rebecca@odonnellsolicitors.co.uk.
For more information on Training 2 Care, visit http://www.training2care.co.uk/
