Forum: More practical ways needed to support dementia patients and their caregivers

The many complex issues facing caregivers were well highlighted in the Opinion pieces “Respecting the wishes of people with dementia while keeping them safe” and “‘

Alive, but just a shell’ – the grief that haunts dementia caregivers

” (both Sept 26).

While I agree with the first commentary that people with cognitive decline should be allowed as far as possible to maintain their sense of autonomy and dignity, the authors seem to understate the extent of the massive mindset shift required by society at large to allow for these ideals to be upheld in a meaningful way.

One of the solutions proposed for the example of Mr Lee, who wanted more autonomy despite living with mild dementia, was that his sister could “step up with more regular visits” or that neighbours or volunteers could help with food delivery and medication.

If the sister holds a full-time job, will her employers recognise that she might have to take unexpected leave to help her brother? If Mr Lee has an outburst or meltdown with his caregivers (as is common with dementia patients), how many clients or employers would recognise or accept delays in work product delivery because the caregivers need time to recover and reset emotionally?

If eldercare leave entitlements in Singapore are not given the same priority as, say, childcare leave, how can we expect caregivers to “step up” without breaking down themselves?

The general population, too, needs to understand the pressures and pain points of our rapidly ageing population. How pleasant will Mr Lee’s autonomous life be if the service providers and people that he interacts with daily without his caregivers do not understand the severity of his condition and fail to treat him with the extreme patience and consideration that is needed in dementia care?

What is required here is not just targeted help for caregivers and patients but education on a national level on how to treat our cognitively impaired elderly with respect and dignity.

I thank all the writers for taking the time to share their research, findings and opinions, and I hope that more can be done in practical terms to support dementia patients and their caregivers.  

Usha Chandradas