Due to the nature of the disease, dementia can often be shrouded in a fog of misconceptions and myths. There is a lot of misinformation out there regarding dementia, especially as additional research continues to be conducted and myths become debunked. That is why it is important to educate yourself following a senior loved one’s dementia diagnosis to ensure that they are receiving the highest quality of care possible.

Here at CountryHouse, a compassionate senior living community specializing in memory care in Lincoln, NE, we witness firsthand the realities that individuals and their families encounter on this journey. In striving to enhance understanding and awareness, we want to delve into dismantling some of the common myths surrounding dementia, contrasting them with the realities. 

Continue reading to learn more on this important topic as well as get more info on how to become a CountryHouse resident:

Myth 1: Memory Loss is Just a Normal Part of Aging

Reality: It’s common to experience mild memory lapses, such as struggling to remember where you parked at the shopping mall or where you left your wallet. These instances can happen to anyone of any age. However, significant memory loss is not a typical aspect of aging. Memory care in Lincoln, NE, like the holistic and person-centered approach at CountryHouse, addresses the complex needs of those experiencing substantial memory impairment, providing a quality of life that honors their unique journey.

Myth 2: Dementia Solely Affects Memory

Reality: Dementia impacts more than just memory. It can influence cognitive abilities, including problem-solving, attention, and language skills. At our community, we prioritize understanding the multifaceted nature of dementia, ensuring our residents receive the requisite support in all aspects, not merely memory.

Myth 3: There’s Little You Can Do to Improve the Life Quality of Someone with Dementia

Reality: This could not be further from the truth. In fact, implementing comprehensive memory care strategies, like those at CountryHouse, significantly enhances the quality of life for residents navigating through dementia. From personalized activities that promote engagement and well-being to creating a secure and supportive environment, our memory care in Lincoln, NE, affirms that a diagnosis doesn’t define the capacity for joy and connection. Moving to a specialized memory care community ensures that your loved one will lead their happiest, healthiest lives possible. 

Myth 4: Individuals with Dementia are Incapable of Experiencing Emotions

Reality: Emotions remain very much alive in individuals with dementia. At CountryHouse, we witness daily the rich emotional lives of our residents. They laugh, love, find joy, and can also experience sadness and frustration. Our empathetic team nurtures a positive emotional environment, curating experiences that elicit joy and minimize distress.

Myth 5: Dementia and Alzheimer’s are Interchangeable Terms

Reality: Though Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, it’s vital to note that not all dementia is Alzheimer’s. There are various forms and causes of dementia, each with unique characteristics and progression patterns. Our memory care approach is tailored to understand and meet the varied needs of residents, regardless of the type of dementia they are living with.

Myth 6: Only Older Adults Develop Dementia

Reality: While age is the most significant risk factor for developing dementia, it is not exclusive to the older population. Early-onset dementia can affect individuals in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. At CountryHouse, our experienced team is equipped to provide specialized care and support designed to meet the needs of all our residents, regardless of age.

Myth 7: Memory Care Communities Strip Away Independence

Reality: Contrary to this belief, our community in Lincoln, NE, prioritizes empowering our residents to maintain a sense of autonomy, providing them with choices and encouraging active participation in daily activities. We create a supportive environment where individuals can safely engage in activities and maintain their interests, thus preserving their sense of self and dignity.

As a matter of fact, we are proud to offer our residents the Seasons Program. This program is our 52-week curriculum of life enrichment activities. In addition to regularly scheduled exercise and social hours, our communities plan special activities each week that are inspired by the season, a holiday or local events and attractions. These special activities may include trips, educational classes, parties and volunteer projects. All are designed to maximize wellness, as well as strengthen connections, encourage meaningful engagement and foster personal growth. 

Myth 8: People with Dementia Can’t Communicate Effectively

Reality: Communication is more than words. Although linguistic abilities can be affected by dementia, individuals retain the capacity to communicate through other means, such as gestures, facial expressions, and body language. At CountryHouse, we emphasize holistic communication, wherein our team is trained to understand and connect with residents, appreciating their varied communication modes, and ensuring they feel heard and valued. Having this kind of continued human connection and socialization is fundamental to leading a happy, healthy life. 

How CountryHouse Can Help

In navigating through the myths and realities of dementia, our role is pivotal in enlightening, supporting, and journeying with our residents and their families. Memory care in Lincoln, NE, especially at CountryHouse, transcends mere caregiving. We are steadfast in our commitment to providing a vibrant, joyful, and secure community where residents are honored, celebrated, and understood in their unique journey through dementia.

CountryHouse endeavors to be a beacon of knowledge, support, and care in the dementia journey, embodying a community where understanding and love permeate through every interaction. If you’re navigating the path of dementia with a loved one, know that there’s a community here, ever-ready to stand with you, enlightening the path with understanding and genuine care.

Contact Us Today!

When looking into a specialized memory care community for your loved one, don’t settle. Explore the myriad of ways CountryHouse, a haven of supportive and loving memory care in Lincoln, NE, can be a part of your family’s journey. Contact us today and allow us to stand with you in understanding, navigating, and enriching the dementia journey of your loved ones.