Medical expert discusses family care for those living with Dementia patients

EVANSVILLE, Ind (WEHT) – 89-year-old Lola Davis was found dead Monday night after hours of searching by concerned citizens. The Posey County woman ventured away from her family home around 9 a.m. yesterday morning.

Family members say Davis suffered from Dementia.

Search efforts began around noon and lasted till she was eventually located on 200 E Second Street in Owensboro. It is still unknown how, but authorities say Davis took her neighbors car, which she was later discovered in.

Dr. David Schultz, owner of Evansville Primary Care, says these cases aren’t uncommon for those who suffer from cognitive decline. Dr. Schultz says patients with Dementia will often times lose the ability to perform everyday tasks and frequent forget their surrounding causing them to wander.

When someone with Dementia is lost, finding them can be a challenge for a multitude of reasons, Schultz saying, “Often times a patient with dementia will be scared or frightened, they will be unsure of their environment, and they will get very out of sorts when they go to an unfamiliar setting.”

At home care for those with the disease can be a challenge for families as well, which is why Schultz only recommends it for families who can love, protect and meet every need a patient has.

Dementia cases can also be difficult to handle because a number of factors can make the condition worse. Dr. Shultz stated that dehydration, low blood sugar, illnesses and emotional stress can all lead to problems for patients.

For those caring for a family member from home, Dr. Shultz recommends taking an active role in their loved one’s hospital visits. He says hearing what a patient needs from their doctor can help improve their quality of life at home.

For those struggling with the financial burden of caring for a relative, non-profit organizations like The Southwestern Indiana Council Southwestern Indiana Regional Council on Aging can help at https://swirca.org/.