Anxiety In Persons With Dementia Topic Of Smith Village Caregiver Support Group

CHICAGO — Anxiety is a nearly constant companion for people dealing with dementi. Easing that anxiety remains a priority for their caregivers. Smith Village resident Alice Keane will lead a discussion about this subject during the February meeting of the Smith Village Caregiver Support Group at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 2320 West 113th Place in Chicago.

“With dementia, this anxiety has several sources,”Keane said. “There is a fear of being abandoned or alone. Separation anxiety can occur even when the caregiver is present but out of sight.”

People with dementia often have trouble coping with what’s happening around them in that moment. They often lose the ability to plan ahead, leading to a fear of what’s to come.

“All of this contributes to what we call ‘anticipation anxiety,’”Keane added.

Structure and routine” are vital tools to ease anxiety for those with dementia. People with dementia are particularly sensitive to emotional cues from those in their life. Caregivers have to realize that they’re becoming their loved one’s memory, emotional support, navigatorn that they feel they cannot function independently without their caregiver.

The caregiver support group will offer tips on keeping your emotions in checks while you offer reassurances.

The Smith Village Caregiver Support Group is free and meets on the third Tuesday of each month. To reserve a spot, call 773-474-7302. For more information about Smith Village, visit SmithVillage.com.