Caring For Dementia Survivors: A Patient Journey of Discovery and Support

Observe. Understand. Love. Repeat

When 72-year-old Encik Rahman (not his real name) began misplacing his housekeys and forgetting  conversations, his family thought such episodes were simply a part of aging. Over time, however, the  forgetfulness turned into confusion, anger, and moments when he did not recognise his own children.

Dementia is a group of brain disorders affecting memory, judgement, and execution of routine tasks.

Eventually, Rahman was diagnosed with dementia—a general term for conditions causing a decline in memory, thinking, and behaviour. For his family, this important diagnosis was only the beginning of a whole new journey filled with questions, emotional highs and lows, as well as the need for support.

UNDERSTANDING DEMENTIA BEYOND MEMORY LOSS

Dementia isn’t one specific disease. It is a group of brain disorders which affect memory, judgement,  and the ability to perform routine tasks. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, but there are  others like vascular dementia or Lewy body dementia. Beyond memory loss, a dementia patient may wander off and get lost; forget familiar people and places; have trouble sleeping or recognising time;  become anxious, aggressive, or depressed; and struggle with everyday tasks like eating and dressing. While the disease progresses slowly, its emotional impact often hits quicker, especially for caregivers.

Hidden Heroes: Gracious Lifetime Family Caregivers

In Malaysia, most dementia care occurs at home, supported by spouses, children, or relatives. Many  caregivers, however, often feel overwhelmed and are untrained. For example, Salmah (not her real  name), who cares for her mother with Alzheimer’s, shares: “Some days, she thinks I am her sister. Other  days, she begs to go home although she’s in her own house. I love her, but it breaks my heart.” Caregiving requires a tremendous amount of patience, creativity, and emotional strength. That’s why  it’s essential to empower caregivers with the right information, knowledge, tools, skills, and support.

At Putra Medical Centre Alor Setar, our key approach to dementia care is family-centred and holistic.

PMC: One Hospital’s Promise of Compassionate Care

At Putra Medical Centre, our approach to dementia care is family-centred and holistic. We know that treating dementia means caring for both the patient and the caregiver. For this purpose, we provide  comprehensive assessments to confirm type and stage of dementia; medication management to aid  with memory, mood, and sleep; monitoring of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension that  worsen dementia; caregiver counselling to avoid burnout and depression; lifestyle and home safety  guidance to reduce risks like falls and wandering; and regular follow-ups to track disease progression. 

Practical Tips for At-Home Recovery and Wellbeing

Here are some ways you can make life much easier and safer for someone living daily with dementia: 

Create a safe environment

–     Install door alarms if wandering is an issue

–     Use labels or signs for key rooms like the toilet, kitchen, or bedroom

–     Keep furniture consistent and reduce clutter to avoid confusion or falls

Establish routines

–     Keep calendars or photo reminders to reduce anxiety

–     Display a list of emergency contacts in a visible location 

–     Stick to regular mealtimes, bath times, and sleep schedules

Communicate with kindness

–     Speak slowly and use simple language

–     Show love through tone and touch, not just words

–     Avoid correcting or arguing—redirect gently instead

Encourage gentle activity

–     Stimulating the senses brings comfort and calm

–     Convenient entertainment outlets like shows and cognitive games

–     Light chores, listening to music, or walking in the garden can help

A FINAL WORD OF COMFORT

Dementia may change a person’s memory, but it does not erase their essence. They are still your parent,  relative, spouse, or friend. Your care brings them dignity, peace, and connection. You do not have to do  it alone. Need guidance on caring for a loved one with dementia? Speak with a qualified specialist at  Putra Medical Centre today and reclaim control over your health. Our warm and friendly  doctors and nurses are ever ready to be at your service with support, expertise, and encouragement. 

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