Caring for a loved one with dementia requires a great deal of commitment, and it could be argued that this commitment is even greater when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). But what is DLB? And will it be possible to care for your loved one in your own home?
About DLB
The Lewy bodies themselves are irregular collections of proteins that develop inside the nerve cells that are directly affected by dementia. The direct cause of DLB is unknown but is thought to be a combination of environmental and genetic factors. It occasionally runs in a family, although it's more common for someone to be affected by DLB without having inherited the condition. DLB presents a specific set of symptoms that can make management challenging.
Sleep and Hallucinations
Those affected by DLB frequently experience interruptions to their rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) can lead someone affected by DLB to seemingly perform their dreams, with vocalization and movement. This is a type of parasomnia (a sleep disorder) that isn't limited to bed, as many people affected by DLB will sleepwalk while talking in their sleep, often as part of their dream. They can also experience vivid waking hallucinations, along with a decline in cognitive function and impulse control.
A Confronting Condition
It could be suggested that the manifestations of DLB are more confronting than other types of dementia, and this is why management of the condition can be problematic. While you and your family can provide a certain degree of care and supervision, appropriately qualified home care is likely to become necessary.
Treatment and Management
Treatment for DLB can involve medication to improve cognitive function and regulate sleep, but a great deal of management involves supervision to ensure that your loved one doesn't inadvertently place themselves at risk. You might find yourself needing to distract your loved one from a seemingly real hallucination or having to gently escort them back to bed during a sleepwalking episode. It can be time-consuming, and this doesn't even begin to cover the potential emotional distress.
Getting Help
It's important to have a rough idea of what to expect as your loved one's DLB progresses, and it can be unrealistic to expect to handle all their care yourself. Contact a home health care agency that can provide staff with experience caring for those who are affected by DLB. You may benefit from scheduling this home care for certain days of the week, allowing you to manage your loved one's care at other times. It may also be possible for additional care on-demand when you need some extra assistance.
Although it will be demanding to care for a family member with DLB, you will be doing so out of love. That being said, it's very important for your own wellbeing to ensure that you have the necessary assistance.
Reach out to a home care service in your area for more information.
