At Stillwater Hospice, we know that a diagnosis of dementia changes life for both the person who has it and the people who love them. Families and caregivers often feel worried, tired, or unsure of what to do next. That is why we care not only for the patient but also for the people walking this journey beside them.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is a symptom of many different illnesses that affect memory, thinking, and daily life. Doctors may give a dementia diagnosis when changes in the brain begin to interfere with everyday activities.

The most common types of dementia include:

• Alzheimer’s disease – the most common form, often beginning with memory loss and confusion.
• Vascular dementia – caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, sometimes after a stroke.
• Lewy body dementia – may cause movement problems, sleep changes, or vivid dreams along with memory loss.
• Frontotemporal dementia – often begins with changes in personality, judgment, or language.

Some common signs and symptoms that may lead to a diagnosis include:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life, like forgetting recent events or repeating the same questions.
• Trouble with planning or problem-solving, such as following a recipe or paying bills.
• Difficulty with familiar tasks, like getting dressed or using common household items.
• Confusion about time or place, such as not knowing what day it is or getting lost in familiar areas.
• Problems with speaking or writing, including forgetting words or losing track of conversations.
• Changes in mood or personality, like becoming anxious, angry, or withdrawn.
• Poor judgment, such as giving away money or forgetting personal care.

As dementia gets worse, the care needs of the person also change. That is where hospice care can help.

When to Call Hospice for Dementia

Hospice care may be helpful when:

• Your loved one has difficulty walking and may be falling.
• They may have problems speaking or understanding.
• They may have difficulty swallowing or weight loss.
• They have frequent infections or hospital visits.
• They sleep most of the day or show little interest in activities.
• Caregiving feels overwhelming or stressful for the family.

Hospice brings comfort, support, and guidance for both the patient and their caregivers. Reaching out early can give your family more peace of mind.

Care for People Living with Dementia

At Stillwater Hospice, we focus on comfort, dignity, and peace for people with dementia.

Here’s how we help:

• Personalized Care Plans: Each person is unique. Our nurses, aides, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers create a plan that matches the patient’s needs and wishes.
• Comfort and Safety: Dementia can cause stress, confusion, or worry. We work to create calm, safe spaces so patients feel more at ease.
• Whole-Person Support: Our team cares for the mind, body, and spirit. Music, touch, and familiar routines often bring peace and comfort.
• Expert Symptom Care: We manage pain, sleep problems, swallowing issues, or changes in mood so the person feels as comfortable as possible.

Care for Caregivers

Caring for someone with dementia can be one of the hardest jobs a person will ever do. It is also a role filled with love and devotion. Stillwater Hospice makes sure caregivers get the support they need too.

• 24/7 Nurse Access: Caregivers can call any time—day or night—and speak with a nurse. Whether it’s a medical question, a sudden change in symptoms, or a moment of worry, support is always available.
• Education and Guidance: We teach caregivers what to expect as dementia changes and share tips for handling tough behaviors like wandering or restlessness.
• Emotional and Spiritual Support: Our social workers and chaplains listen and encourage caregivers, giving them a safe place to talk.
• Respite Care: Caregivers need rest. We provide breaks so they can recharge, knowing their loved one is in good hands.
• Grief Support: Dementia brings “anticipatory grief,” as families mourn small changes along the way. Our Peggy F. Murphy Community Grief Center offers counseling and groups to help both during the illness and after a loss.

The Power of Simple Moments

Even when words fade, love remains. Holding hands, sharing a smile, or hearing a favorite song can create deep connections. These moments matter. Hospice care helps families step back from only being caregivers and return to being husbands, wives, children, and friends.

Walking the Journey Together

No one should face dementia alone. At Stillwater Hospice, we walk with patients and caregivers, offering compassion, comfort, and guidance at every step.

We also provide free informational visits to help families understand what hospice care is and how it can help. These visits do not require a commitment to start services—they are simply a chance to ask questions, meet our team, and learn what support is available.

Our promise is simple: we care for the whole person and their loved ones, bringing dignity and peace to each day.

If your family is facing dementia, reach out to us. Know us before you need us. We are here to help you through with care, support, and love.