Some people with a dementia
find that after their diagnosis friends and acquaintances may not visit as much
or even lose contact.
Often this is because people don’t know very much about dementia, don’t
feel confident about how to communicate with someone with a dementia or are
afraid they might be intruding.
But keeping in contact is important for someone with dementia and can
make all the difference to them.
Life doesn't end when dementia begins and someone with a dementia can
live well for a long time after their diagnosis, especially if they have a good
support network.
Evelyn and Jean who feature in the recent ‘Still Me’ campaign are
lifelong friends. Evelyn’s diagnosis hasn’t changed that and just as before her
diagnosis, Evelyn loves catching up with her friend Jean, going for coffee,
enjoying day trips and music.
If you have a friend or family member with a dementia diagnosis, support
them by keeping in contact and continuing with the hobbies, activities and
pastimes that they’ve always enjoyed.
Danny Brown and his son Danny also feature in the ‘Still Me’ campaign.
Danny is very proud of how his dad has dealt with his dementia diagnosis,
particularly his positive attitude to life. Danny supports his dad and the two
enjoy spending time together.
I just love the garden! In the summer I've been in the garden some
mornings at seven o'clock right up until half ten at night.
Danny is aware of the stigma attached to dementia, but is thankful of
the care and support he has every day.
Yes you can fear it, but you've got to encompass it. There are a lot of
people out there tripping over themselves to help you.
SOURCE:Belfast Telegraph
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