Your loved one has recently been diagnosed with dementia — but do you know what type? There are many different types of dementia and it’s important to find out which kind they have. Realizing the type of dementia your loved one has, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Vascular dementia or Lewy body will help them receive personalized care to meet their specific needs.

Depending on what kind of dementia they have, their caregiving needs can be adjusted or tailored to their own needs. Maybe they have vascular dementia and just need help starting out to eat and can finish the meal by themselves. But, someone with Alzheimer’s disease needs to be reminded to eat throughout their meal, and you can use a hand under hand technique to feed them. Using these different techniques can help your loved one with dementia live a happier life and to feel more independent.

When you understand the specific needs of your loved one with dementia, you’re giving them the opportunity to live a life full of meaning and purpose.