Dealing with dementia
The municipality of Wassenaar helps people with dementia to continue participating in society for as long as possible. The municipality also arranges support and help for people who help someone with dementia (informal caregivers).
What is dementia?
Dementia is a disease in which the brain starts working less well. In someone with dementia, you may notice these things:
- In the beginning, a person mostly forgets things. Like names and faces. Or what happened yesterday.
- Later, problems with thinking arise. Like not knowing your way or time. Or no longer being able to do your ordinary things, such as shopping or cooking.
- Talking also becomes increasingly difficult. Strange conversations arise. Or someone tells a story over and over again.
- A person may start to feel and behave differently. For example, someone was quiet and is now often busy. Or someone is suddenly angry or sad.
It becomes increasingly difficult to live independently. A person with dementia needs more and more help from others.
There are several types of dementia. Alzheimer's disease is the most common.
For more information on dementia, visit Alzheimer's Netherlands.
What is the municipality doing for people with dementia?
It is important that people with dementia can continue to participate in society for as long as possible. The municipality helps in these ways:
- Staying socially active can sometimes prevent or delay dementia. For social activities during the day, you are welcome at Amarosa's meeting points , such as the Sophiekehof and Bellesteijn.
- People who have only recently developed dementia can attend day care. There they receive help in dealing with their illness. They can also participate in activities there. This is arranged and paid for under the Social Support Act ( Wmo).
- SMOW organizes many activities for seniors, including for seniors with dementia and their caregivers.
- For people with severe dementia, it is important that help is always nearby. They can get that help through the Long-Term Health Act (Wlz).
Someone to help you (dementia case manager)
People with dementia can also get help from a professional caregiver: a dementia case manager. They help you learn to cope with your illness. Together, you will always examine what you need and how your daily life remains as pleasant as possible. Your case manager will also help you find the right support or help.
Basic insurance reimburses the work of the dementia case manager. Most insurers do require that you have a diagnosis of dementia. Check with your health insurance company. You can request the help of a case manager together with your general practitioner.
Contact with one person or organization
In Wassenaar, caregivers, social workers, volunteers and the municipality work together. This makes it easier for you to get the help you need. And you only need to have contact with one person or organization. If you have a case manager, he or she is your regular contact person.
What does the municipality do for the loved ones of someone with dementia?
Caring for someone with dementia can be tough. The municipality therefore arranges support and help for family caregivers through The Social Support Foundation Wassenaar (SMOW).
For more information, see Mantel Care.