Relaxing is the hardest thing for anyone to do who has been diagnosed or is close to someone who has been told they have dementia (which is a decline in memory with the most common cause being Alzheimer’s disease). Sun Health’s experts in Memory Care will tell you that relaxation and using meditation techniques are crucial once you hear this kind of news.
“People who are diagnosed with dementia often times have a significant increase in anxiety because of the fear and unknown of this potentially life-altering diagnosis,” says Barbara Mason, Vice President of Home and Community Based Services for Sun Health. “Having this diagnosis is sure to impact state of mind and mental health, so the sooner we can intervene to get the anxiety under control, the better.”
And Ms. Mason shares you don’t need to be an expert to benefit right away.
“Many of us grew up with the stigma behind taking medications for our mental health and that we should adopt the English, “stiff upper lip” attitude. This approach is much more private and holistic,” Ms. Mason shares. “It is simply learning to relax and using techniques to quiet the mind and body, which is so helpful when you have a new diagnosis like this. And the good news is you don’t have to be Buddha to use relaxation techniques.”
Medical studies document the benefits of relieving anxiety in relation to slowing the progress of dementia. Ms. Mason also points out that relaxation and meditation are not just for the patient, but equally vital for the caregiver to use as well.
“The anxiety and burnout and depression associated with being a caregiver is unbelievable. There are a lot of caregivers who live shorter lives than those with dementia,” Ms. Mason explains. “Meditation is a mental time out. Everyone needs a way to escape. Many caregivers feel they cannot leave someone physically to get a break, so meditation is a great way to escape without feeling like you are deserting your loved one.”
Sun Health is inviting community members to its no-cost event, Resiliency: The Mind-Body Connection at 9:30 a.m. on April 7. One of the breakout sessions called Meditation and Relaxation teaches participants how to incorporate meditation and relaxation techniques into daily routines. To register call (623) 207-1703.
Sun Health’s Memory Care Navigator program can help those with memory loss and their family members and friends to identify support, services and resources that may be helpful in navigating the dementia journey. For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation, call 623-471-9300, or visit http://sunhealth.org/memorycare.
