The Early Signs and Symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia

14. Living with Lewy Body Dementia

Coping with an LBD diagnosis can be challenging, but there are some things you can do to make it easier to manage day-to-day. It can help to build a support system by letting friends and family know about your diagnosis and how it affects your mood, movements, and behavior. As the disease progresses, you may have trouble managing daily tasks, like driving or taking medication. Having a support system of people who understand your condition early can make it easier to ask for help.

Because of changes in movement and thinking, LBD can lead to safety issues. To help manage these, consider carrying a medical alert card or wearing a medical alert bracelet. Address any safety issues in your home, including fall risks, like poor lighting, floor lamps, or stairs. Installing grab bars in the bathroom or adding ramps can help avoid falls.

Plan for your care. LBD is a progressive disease, so talk to your friends, family, and doctors early about the care you would like to receive in the future. If you are working, talk to a legal or financial expert to help plan for your disability or retirement. LBD will affect your ability to work over time, so it is important to plan early. Talk to a lawyer to write or update a will and designate power of attorney. Taking care of these things soon after your diagnosis can be better so you do not have to worry about them later.