Alhzimer & Dementia, What To Do When Your Loved Ones Suffer Memory Loss

By: Nnenna Joseph

September is world Alzhimer month, one of the most common diseases on earth prevalent in people between age 65 and above but equally obtainable in younger people.

It is one of the greatest fears for older people in the given age bracket. It is the fear of forgetting your loved ones, the memories shared together over the years, times and season.

In Nigeria there are 318 011 dementia cases, (National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine 2015). We readily have instances of relatives, grannies, parents, grandparents who, as they got older became unable to recognize or remember faces and persons they were abinitio familiar with. They most likely have a case of dementia or Alhzimer. It is a rough phase of life, at this point, they need all the support, reassurance and comfort they can get.

Simply put, Dementia is a syndrome in which there is deterioration in memory, thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday activities

Is Dementia same as Alzhimer? Dementia is a syndrome, Alzhimer is a disease. Both refer to forgetfulness but it is pertinent to seek clarity on their difference.

Dementia is a house while Alzhimer is a room in the house. However, their relationship is unique because Alhzimer, the disease is the cause of 50 to 70% which means when a person has Dementia, they will be checked further to know if the case is an exact case of Alhzimer.

This particular room (read as Alzheimer) is a progressive disease of the brain that slowly causes impairment in memory and cognitive function. Just like when fire guts a room, it spreads to the entire house, this translates as dementia wherefore we see a group of symptoms, where the patient has trouble keeping track of time losing their way in familiar settings.

As it progresses, forgetfulness and confusion grow. It becomes harder to recall names and faces. Personal care becomes a problem. Obvious signs of dementia include repetitive questioning, inadequate hygiene, and poor decision-making.

In the most advanced stage, people with dementia become unable to care for themselves. They will struggle even more with keeping track of time, and remembering people and places they are familiar with. Behavior continues to change and can turn into depression and aggression.

It is important to note that non-experts use these terms interchangeably with no consequence.

How does Alhzimer feel for the patients?
The worst pain they say, is the pain of loss, this time the loss of cherished memories you have of the world.
There are two types of patients with dementia. Those who are aware they have a condition and Those who are unaware of their condition

Patients who are aware of their condition are usually calm, they know there is something wrong. “It feels like my subconscious knows you, but sometimes I can’t remember your name or some of the memories we share. I feel sad when I’m corrected on days of the week, or time of the year” says Mr. Nduka, a dementia patient.

There are equally patients who do not agree there is a problem with their memory, they are usually angry when corrected. This is referred to as anosognosia which is thought to be the result of cell damage in the right prefrontal lobes and the parietal lobes. This can happen during a stroke or as cells decline due to Alzheimer’s and dementia.

They may refuse to take medications because they don’t think they need them, or become angry when told they can’t stay at home alone anymore or drive around by themselves.

How does this feel for the caregivers and loved ones of the patients
When caring for patients who are in denial, convincing them there is a problem won’t make them believe you, so try to avoid arguing. It doesn’t help them understand the situation, and can also lead to agitation, distrust and fear – all common side effects of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Early-stage Alzheimer’s and related dementia symptoms are mild and the main role of a caregiver and loved one is support.

The late stage of Alzheimer’s usually requires intensive care. As caregiver, your role focuses on preserving quality of life and dignity. Don’t let them feel embarrassed by their memory conditions.