Cognitive Health and Dementia: Strategies to Support Brain Function
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer:
This article is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance on brain health, memory concerns, or dementia care.
When memory changes move beyond “forgetting a name now and then” and begin affecting daily life, families can feel overwhelmed and unsure where to turn. Dementia is not a normal part of aging, yet for the 5–8% of older adults who live with it worldwide (World Health Organization), it brings profound challenges for both the individual and their loved ones.
At Senior Citizens Inc., we believe that while dementia is serious, families don’t have to face it alone. With the right tools, strategies, and support, it is possible to navigate this journey with dignity, compassion, and hope.
📊 Did You Know?
Family caregivers provide an estimated 18 billion hours of unpaid care each year for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, valued at more than $339 billion (Alzheimer’s Association).
Understanding Dementia in the Family Context
Dementia affects everyone in the household, not just the person with the diagnosis. Families often must balance caregiving, work, financial strain, and the emotional impact of watching a loved one change. That’s why early action — talking with a doctor, creating a care plan, and connecting with support services — makes a difference.
Practical Strategies for Families and Caregivers
Focus on communication. Gentle tone, patience, and simple sentences can ease daily conversations. Avoid correcting, and instead redirect or reassure.
Create safe routines. Consistency lowers stress and helps your loved one feel more secure.
Make the environment supportive. Label drawers, remove trip hazards, and add reminders for orientation.
Share caregiving duties. Don’t shoulder the responsibility alone — ask siblings, extended family, or friends to help.
Look after yourself. Caregivers often experience stress and burnout. Rest, exercise, and respite breaks are essential.
Plan ahead. Legal, financial, and health decisions are easier when made early, with the person’s input whenever possible.
How SCI Supports Families
Senior Citizens Inc. has a long history of supporting older adults and those who love them. Our programs are designed not only to care for individuals with dementia, but also to give families peace of mind:
DayBreak Respite Center — a safe, structured environment for older adults with cognitive challenges, offering engagement while caregivers take time for themselves.
Adult Day Health Centers — combining medical oversight with daily activities, socialization, and supervision.
Care Navigation — helping families understand available resources and guiding them through difficult decisions.
Hope on the Horizon
Although there is currently no cure for dementia, advances in research are opening doors to earlier diagnosis, new treatments, and better quality of life. Just as importantly, community programs like SCI’s create a support system so no family has to face the journey in isolation.
For More Information
If you’re supporting a loved one with dementia, SCI is here to help. Call us at 912-236-0363 or fill out the form below, and one of our team members will reach out with resources tailored to your family’s needs.