April 24 Combined - Flipbook - Page 14
Hayling Herald Community update
Dementia Friendly Hayling
By Jane Ward from Dementia
Friendly Hampshire
SOMETIMES it can be difficult
to persuade someone affected by
dementia to take their medicine.
It could be a response to being
confused about what they’re being
asked to do, or it may be that they
feel they don’t have any control over
their life, which could make them
generally angry or resistant.
Don’t get into an argument about
taking medication, don’t force it,
leave them alone for a while then
try again. There are some things
which can help:
n When it’s time for medication,
start with a quiet, calm environment. Before you start, take some
deep breaths and do your best to
stay calm throughout the process, if
you’re agitated, frustrated, or angry,
it’s likely they’ll be able to sense it
and be less likely to co-operate.
n Think about good and bad times
of day for them and try and give
medicines during their better periods. Of course, before making any
changes to their medication sched-
ule, talk with their doctor to make
sure the new schedule you’d like
to use is safe and won’t cause any
problems.
n Someone might refuse to take
their medicine if it makes them feel
sick, uncomfortable, or if they have
an illness.
Many medications cause unpleasant side effects but sometimes
people affected by dementia are not
able to recognise or describe the
problem. If you suspect this could
be the issue, speak to the doctor or
pharmacist – maybe they can try an
alternative medication.
n There could be something else
going on like dental problems that
make their gums or teeth hurt,
poorly fitting dentures, an infection,
or a sore throat.
n People affected by dementia may
also have difficulties with swallowing. Ask their doctor or pharmacist
to see if any of their medications
could be changed to a liquid form.
n Many older people take multiple
medications. Perhaps seeing a lot
of pill bottles feels overwhelming;
giving a tablet at a time with the rest
out of sight may work better.
The last thing you need is to try
to get someone to take more pills
than absolutely necessary so ask
for a pharmacy review to see if any
medications could be safely discontinued.
n Taking your own medicine at the
same time they do can make it more
of a buddy experience. You might
say, ‘It’s time for our medicine.
Here’s mine and here’s yours.’ If you
don’t take any medications, see if
you can get away with taking something like a Tic Tac mint.
n Finally, consider offering a treat
after their medication; it might
even help take away any bitter taste
the medicine leaves and associates
something positive with taking
medicine.
Bridge Debt Advice Centre
By David Smith on behalf of the Bridge Advice
Centre’s Debt Advice Team
There are many myths and uncertainties
surrounding debts and unpaid bills. Here are a
few:
n If I am in debt or take any action to reduce
my debts my name will be added to a central
blacklist?
There is no such thing. Credit reference agencies
will hold factual information concerning credit
transactions undertaken by you. If you seek
credit the lender may choose to access this
information.
n Can I be sent to prison for not paying my
debts?
As a last resort you may be sent to prison for not
paying court fines or not complying with court
orders but you cannot be sent to prison for
debt.
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n Is it expensive to obtain professional debt
advice?
You do not have to pay for this. There are a
number of debt advice charities such as The
Bridge Advice Centre, CAB, Christians Against
Poverty(CAP), Steps and others. Go to fca.org.uk
and search the Financial Services Register.
n I won’t be able to have a bank account if I am
bankrupt.
This is not true though it may be more difficult to
obtain one.
n Am I responsible for my partner’s debts?
Usually the answer is no, even if you are married
or in a civil partnership. The exceptions will be
any debts that you have guaranteed and council
tax in respect of a property you occupy.
n Debt collectors can seize property from my
home.
There is a difference between debt collectors and
bailiffs or enforcement agents.
A debt collector is not a bailiff or enforcement
officer and has no greater right to enter your
home than the creditor themselves. Most bailiffs
have the power to enter but it is still subject to
rules and procedures which must be followed.
If in doubt contact us immediately. The position
can change if you let them enter voluntarily.
If you are struggling to pay debts seek advice.
It will often give you peace of mind. If you want
more information about our services please
telephone 07876 776668 for an appointment.
We have a 24-hour answering service and will
call back when we can.
All our advice is friendly, confidential, nonjudgemental and free.
We are able to meet on face-to-face basis at
the Bridge Church, by appointment on Tuesday
mornings.