When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, families are often overwhelmed and in shock, and planning ahead can feel like climbing Mount Everest. Yet experts agree it’s the most important step a family can take.

In this article by Suzie Romig, licensed clinical social worker and Compassion Works founder Kay Adams joins other local experts to share guidance for families after a dementia diagnosis. Kay describes the diagnosis as an earthquake: suddenly everything looks different, and plans, expectations, roles, and routines all change.

Kay explains why families should start by educating themselves about the disease, especially with 120 identified types of dementia and every person’s experience being different. She also discusses why an official diagnosis matters, from understanding what’s happening and identifying potentially treatable causes to accessing appropriate care and moving forward with medical, insurance, financial, and legal matters.

Kay also addresses a common pattern she sees: people who are diagnosed and their caregivers often go underground and don’t tell anyone. She encourages families to build a circle of support, share honest information with the people in it, and join a caregiver support group to ease the isolation of the disease.

Kay offers simple, practical ways to accept help, such as asking a friend to pick up groceries or sit with Mom during an errand, setting up a weekly schedule of help, and saying yes to offers instead of “No, we’re fine.” The article also lists recommended Colorado resources for individualized dementia coaching and family workshops.