Dementia

Most people with CJD experience progressive dementia (memory loss, confusion and impaired thinking) which can in turn add to frustration, distress and agitation.

Try this:

1. Limit environmental activity and noise which may add to confusion
2. Follow a regular daily routine
3. Try reminiscing with your loved one by telling stories from your shared past ("I remember when …")
4. Watch how visitors affect your loved one and keep visits short if they cause distress
5. If you have outside help, try to keep the same people over time. New faces may cause anxiety.
6. Limit choices when you can – present two options for dinner or two options for clothing and let your loved one choose. Too many choices can be overwhelming.
7. Minimize distractions like television and radio so that it is easier to focus on the task at hand
8. Speak to them with a calming tone and comfort them
9. Speak in shorter, simpler sentences
10. See if cognitive activities like puzzles, block stacking, or picture matching help and interest them