Empowering Patients: The Evolution of Dementia Diagnosis Discussions

Getting a dementia diagnosis is never easy. It is the start of a difficult rollercoaster of fear, anxiety, uncertainty, grief, and more, all of which are heightened if the diagnosis is given starkly, without empathy or compassion. There are steps doctors can (and should) take when delivering a dementia diagnosis to ease the initial impact, empowering and equipping the individual and family with knowledge and support.

Here are a few of the ways doctors are attempting to improve dementia diagnosis discussions, and why it matters.

• Empathy First: Rather than jumping straight to medical jargon and statistics, doctors are now starting conversations with understanding and empathy. They acknowledge the emotional impact of a dementia diagnosis and strive to create a safe space for patients and their family members to talk about their fears and concerns. Along with this empathetic approach, physicians are also encouraging open discussion about the practical aspects of managing dementia, including daily routines and available support services.
• Education as Empowerment: Doctors are shifting towards an educational approach, equipping patients and families with knowledge about dementia. By explaining the disorder in accessible language and providing resources for further learning, they empower individuals to better navigate the journey ahead. There is also an emphasis on the importance of proactive measures, such as lifestyle modifications and early intervention strategies, to enhance well-being and delay disease progression.
• Person-Centered Services: Acknowledging that every individual’s experience with dementia is unique, doctors are shifting towards a person-centered approach to care. Ideally, they are engaging patients in conversations about their values, goals, and preferences, ensuring that care plans are customized to the individual’s needs and wishes. This individualized approach extends beyond medical treatment to cover holistic support, including emotional well-being and social connectedness, fostering a feeling of dignity and autonomy.
• Supportive Networks: Doctors are increasingly connecting patients and families with supportive networks and resources within the community. Whether it’s caregiver support groups, dementia-friendly activities, or specialized services, these networks provide vital emotional and practical support throughout the dementia journey. Physicians should also be advocating for the involvement of family caregivers in care planning and decision-making, recognizing their invaluable role in providing continuity of care and enhancing the person’s quality of life.
• Ongoing Communication: The conversation doesn’t end with the initial diagnosis. Doctors need to be focused on ongoing communication with patients and families, providing updates on the advancement of the disease, discussing treatment options, and offering support every step of the way. This ongoing discussion fosters trust and collaboration, empowering individuals and their loved ones to make informed decisions and adjust to the evolving challenges of dementia caregiving.

If you suspect someone you care about may be in the early stages of dementia, or if they have recently been diagnosed, it’s vital to find a doctor that follows best practices such as these with dementia diagnosis discussions. It’s just as important to partner with a home care provider with specialized expertise in the unique needs of caring for someone with dementia.

At CareWorks Health Services, our Alzheimer’s and dementia care team is fully trained, highly skilled, and well known as the experts in Seal Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Woods, and the nearby areas. Our innovative approach to care promotes respect, independence, and dignity. Reach out to us at (949) 859-4700 or contact us online to learn more.