Middle Or Moderate Stage Dementia

Middle or Moderate Stage Dementia

Middle or Moderate Stage of Dementia

The middle or moderate stage of dementia can be a very challenging time for dementia caregivers. What are some of the typical feelings that caregivers may have and what are some of the options to assist in coping?

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Here are some typical reactions of caregivers who are handling the middle stage of dementia with their loved one:

· "I'm sick of this - what about my life?"

· "I wish she wouldn't act up so much when we go out."

· "I would do anything to get a good night's sleep."

· "This is not the man I used to know."

Dementia caregivers might be feeling resentment, depression, role reversal, guilt, exhaustion, overwhelmed and some social isolation.

Cognitive Symptoms - Middle/Moderate Stage

Changes in brain cells will cause problems in the area of cognition or processing information in the brain. Some common symptoms of the middle or moderate stage include:

· Problems with memory

· Difficulties with orientation

· Fluctuations in spatial abilities

· Language processing

Functional Symptoms - Middle/Moderate Stage

Middle or moderate stage of dementia can be very challenging in coping with daily life task and could involve changes in the following areas:

· grooming

· dressing

· eating and food preparation

· walking

Behavior/Mood Symptoms - Middle/Moderate Stage

If changes in cognition and function weren’t enough, the middle or moderate stage notes further differences in areas such as:

· fear, anxiety, isolation

· wandering

· paranoia

· delusions

· agitation

How Can Dementia Caregivers Cope?

Some options for coping with the middle or moderate stage of dementia might be:

· Respite care (arranging for temporary care of your loved one so you can rest)

· Assistance with behavior management

· Safety support to avoid dangerous situations: a safety home assessment, alarms, locks

· Counseling and support group attendance

· Day care program for your loved one

· Review of assisted living or long term care options

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