Session 8.
Person-Centred Dementia Care Plan.
The Middle Stage of Dementia.
Hello again.
I'm so glad you've stuck with this 10-day program and are here to explore how best to care for someone in the middle stages of dementia.
Some of you may already be facing this.
A lot of the signs and symptoms may sound very familiar.
When my late mum reached this stage,
I could see how swiftly her brain was being affected and how fast I needed to move to keep up with those changes so I could help her.
I tried to stay ahead of them to keep communication open for as long as possible.
I want to acknowledge how confronting this stage can be.
As challenging as it is for carers,
It's so much harder for the person living with dementia.
My late mum often sensed something was wrong.
She knew what life felt like before she had trouble remembering.
She'd ask again and again,
Why is this happening to me?
I learned that she didn't need medical or worst-case scenario explanations.
Instead,
I met her where she was,
Using language she found familiar and comforting.
Mum.
What's wrong with me?
I don't understand why this is happening.
Me.
Would you like me to tell you what's happening,
Mum?
Mum.
Yes,
Please.
Me.
Okay,
Darling.
How about we make a cup of tea and I'll explain.
That small ritual helped settle her.
Then I'd say,
Your brain's a little older now,
Mum.
Some parts don't work like they used to,
But other parts still do.
If she dropped the topic,
I didn't push,
And the next time she asked,
I simply began again.
That calm,
Consistent tone helped de-escalate agitation and maintained connection.
If something works,
It's okay to repeat it exactly.
Middle stage.
Individuals need more help with daily tasks and may show significant behavioural and personality changes.
Symptoms.
More pronounced memory loss.
Difficulty eating,
Bathing.
Changes in personality.
Possible delusions or hallucinations.
Duration.
Around two to four years.
Strategies.
Maintain routines,
Simplify tasks and support emotional needs.
For example,
Lay clothes out in dressing order.
Encourage small tasks like folding washing or watering plants to reduce restlessness.
The person with dementia can still experience a sense of purpose.
Enjoy hobbies or social connections.
Help with simple tasks like meals or gardening.
Eat well,
Stay engaged and connect with support groups.
And some final tips.
Familiar environment.
Non-verbal communication.
Smiling is a good one.
Respond to emotions.
Daily structure.
Regular medical check-ins.
And possibly explore in-home care or assisted living options.
These are just some things to think about.
I know that's a lot to take on board,
So to finish,
Let's just take a quiet moment to centre ourselves.
Wherever you are,
Take a few slow,
Calming breaths.
Allow yourself to smile.
Think of something small that makes you happy.
Maybe the way a pet greets you or the warmth of a cup of tea.
Let that smile grow gently.
Your calm energy sends a powerful signal to the person in your care.
So that's it for today.
Thanks again for listening.
I'll see you in the next session that covers the end stage.
Take care.
