Dementia Behavior Management Support
for LGBTQ+ People
Someone you love is changing before your eyes. You don't want to admit it sometimes, but other times it's undeniable. They are disengaged, forgetful, moody, and disorganized - things that they never were before. You've heard the "D" word, feared it, thought about how to get a diagnosis, and felt lost after getting it.
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People share resources with you, offer support groups, and give lists of recommendations, but you're hurting and overwhelmed. This is not what you wanted or planned for, and now it is taking over your whole life. You struggle to communicate with them, fighting over showers, getting dressed, eating enough. They make inappropriate comments. If it's your partner, you feel uncertain or guilty about wanting sexual contact, or feel ambivalent when they do. The walls are closing in, and it's hard to see a future.
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I'm here to help. Having lost loved ones to dementia, and after years of experience helping care teams and care partners cope with challenging dementia-related behaviors, I can share that although the only way out is through, there are reliable tools and models we can use to address dementia-related behaviors and reduce distress of both the caregivers and the person with dementia. Reach out to discuss your situation and how I can help.
Personalized Support for Dementia Behaviors
As a geropsychologist with a passion for helping LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones age well, it is important to me to acknowledge the unique aspects of caring for an LGBTQ+ person with dementia, and/or being an LGBTQ+ caregiver. When we talk about dementia behaviors, we talk about intimate aspects like showers, dressing, home care workers coming into your home and seeing your photos and decor. You may fear the reaction of people from health care or home health agencies, wondering if it is safe to come out to these new people.
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We will draw from robust dementia behavior management tools while using a personalized approach for your situation, your loved one, and your life. My goal is to provide information and empowerment to dementia caregivers that they can use to move through tough moments, ensure their own safety, and feel proud of the care they are providing.
Find and Use Available Resources
Discuss how resources and recommendations can help you and your loved one.
Learn the ABCs
We can discuss activators (A) of behaviors (B) and how to change the consequence or response to behaviors (C).
Create and collaborate with your "team"
Identify other professionals and helpers who can be a part of your loved one's care. Obtain releases to share information and problem solve together.
Be empowered with information
Better understand dementia and how behaviors intersect with other conditions, including mental health.