Confusion and Forgetfulness One of the most common concerns and complaints of older individuals, and often the focus of concern of families, comes under the heading of “confusion and forgetfulness.” These two terms are often used together, but this is a misnomer that may lead to problems in terms of understanding what might be happening and how to do a proper and necessary assessment. By Dr. Michael Gordon All of us at some point in our lives experience what might be called confusion, which is to say that we “mix up” one experience or set of facts with another, or mistake one person for another or one event with another. Getting lost while driving might be construed as an experience of confusion, depending on the circumstances. Believing that a destination is east of a street rather than west could occur even in the most cognitively intact person under certain conditions. When individuals and their families talk about confusion, this is worrisome. It usually means that, in what would otherwise be normal and…
Mary's Story Mary is a nurse with a long history of caring for elderly patients. Ten years ago her husband, Lloyd, was diagnosed with dementia. He was 62. This is her story. http://healthydebate.ca/faces-health-care/mary-b
My Fathers Alzheimer’s gave us unexpected gifts He stares straight ahead, not acknowledging me. He’s having a bad day. After a while I start again. I stick my face directly in front of his and say a little more loudly, “It’s Pat, Dad.” A low voice speaks at last: “We all know who Pat is.” That’s my Dad having a moment of lucidity, a gift. I haven’t lost him totally yet; his wit and humour are still in that brain somewhere, remnants of his true self. When I was growing up, of my two parents, Dad was the tough one, the disciplinarian who wielded the hairbrush as a threat and a tool of correction. The one who, on viewing my report card, asked “What did Karen get?” The one who yelled at me during driving lessons to go faster and faster backward in circles in a field. The one who baited me about women’s issues. My father had been the breadwinner and decision-maker in our home. Against my will he arranged with the principal of my high school that I study Latin. He sent me to the university of his choice. He was stern…
Coping With Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer's is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. One of the hardest parts of dealing with Alzheimer’s disease is knowing that an elder will never get better. The disease causes cognitive deterioration, and while this process can be slowed, there is currently no way to cure it. The progression can be difficult for families because even though they can enjoy the remaining time with their relative, there is no hope that they will recover. Understanding the disease makes it easier for families and sufferers to cope with the progression of the illness and help them make the most of the time remaining with their family member. A reputable In-Home Care agency can provide occasional respite care and additional support in the home when needed. Symptoms While short term memory loss is the most obvious sign of dementia, your loved one may deal…
