Coping and support

People with Lewy body dementia often have a mixture of emotions, such as confusion, frustration, anger, fear, uncertainty, grief and depression. Offer support by listening, reassuring the person that he or she still can enjoy life, being positive, and doing your best to help the person retain dignity and self-respect.

If you're a caregiver or care partner for someone with Lewy body dementia, watch the person closely to make sure he or she doesn't fall, lose consciousness or react negatively to medications. Provide reassurance during times of confusion, delusions or hallucinations.

Looking after yourself

Caring for a person with Lewy body dementia can be exhausting physically and emotionally. You may have anger, guilt, frustration, discouragement, worry, grief or social isolation. Help prevent caregiver burnout by:

• Asking friends or other family members for help when you need it. Consider in-home health services to help you care for the person with Lewy body dementia.
• Exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet.
• Learning about the disease. Ask questions of doctors, social workers and others on the care team.
• Joining a support group.

Many people with Lewy body dementia and their families can benefit from counseling or local support groups. Contact your local agencies on health or aging to get connected with support groups, doctors, resources, referrals, home care agencies, supervised living facilities, a telephone help line and educational seminars.