Living With A Spouse Who Has Early Onset Dementia

In the United States, it is estimated that 6.9 million people aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. While approximately 73% of those people are over the age of 75 years, dementia can affect people in their 30s and 40s. When dementia occurs in someone younger than 65 years old, it is known as early-onset dementia.

When your spouse has early-onset dementia, it can be difficult and overwhelming to navigate the path forward. Understanding the symptoms and stages of dementia can help you provide support, companionship, and compassionate care for your spouse.

Early Stage Presents An Opportunity To Prepare

In the early stages of dementia—which can last for years—the individual is primarily independent with the functions of daily living and can dress, bathe, and walk around without assistance. During this time, you and your spouse likely have many questions regarding what to expect and how you can best prepare for the future. Now is the time to learn more about dementia, the treatments and support available, and to make decisions with your spouse regarding long-term planning, finances, and other matters. While that may sound unpleasant, making decisions now can empower both of you and reduce the anxiety that comes with uncertainty.

Caring For A Spouse With Early Onset Dementia

In the early stage of dementia, it can be challenging to know where help is needed while recognizing your spouse’s continued independence in some areas. To help you determine how to best care for your spouse, consider the following suggestions:

Assess any safety risks. If your spouse can perform a task without the immediate risk of injury or other harm, offer encouragement and provide supervision as needed.

Stay positive and patient. If your spouse becomes frustrated performing a task, resist immediately intervening. Instead, try to determine the source of the frustration and provide support as needed.

Stress reduction. To the extent possible, try to avoid unnecessary stress for your spouse. If specific tasks or activities are particularly frustrating and stressful, suggest alternatives to alleviate that stress.

Communicate. Sometimes, the best way to find out how to best support your spouse is to ask. Talk over how and when to provide support, discuss your spouse’s frustrations, ask if the level of support you are providing is adequate, and keep communication channels open.

Maximize your spouse’s independence. In the early stages of dementia, it is not uncommon to need reminders that help with memory. Take the initiative and assist with recalling names and faces, keeping appointments, and taking medications. The goal is to provide encouragement and support to help your spouse remain as independent as possible.

Living with a spouse who has early-onset dementia can be stressful and emotionally draining. It is important to take care of yourself, engage in activities you enjoy, and find support from friends and family or other care partners. Our team can answer your questions and discuss your specific needs. Reach out to us online or call us directly at 855-220-7477 to speak to one of our team members.