This is a difficult area to manage as there are many competing relationships to deal with. Your devotion and support for the individual with dementia, and a striving for understanding of this person's changing needs, are primary interests. In addition, there is much care and concern for children still living in the home who may find this whole experience (i.e., watching a parent slip into dementia) confusing and frightening. At times these interests are at direct odds, especially if scary symptoms such as agitation and confusion become apparent.


What you can do:
 

• Safety is always a priority, and must trump all other decisions. Watch for signs of escalating anger/agitation directed at the children. If you feel that the symptoms of agitation are becoming worse, seek out a medical professional such as your primary care physician or social worker.
   
• In addition to the household calendar, post a schedule for the day with important items highlighted. See sample daily schedule.
   
• Be especially mindful of the amount of driving the individual with dementia is doing, and if you are concerned about the safety of your family and others, consider a special driver evaluation. Here is a link to one such program in Maine. To find a program in your area look to independent living organizations, facilities that provide rehabilitation services, or check with your primary or specialty health care provider (family care physician or neurologist)..
   
• Be careful of the care giving demands placed on the individual with dementia, again for safety reasons. While a parent with dementia can appear to be functioning fine, too much responsibility and stress can exacerbate (increase) the dementia symptoms.

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