Dementia:
The Benefits of Early Detention and Planning
By Dalia Díaz
Everywhere we turn, we are bombarded with articles and medications to slow down the process of dementia. The cases are increasing while there’s no hope for a cure.
It is devastating for the individual to lose his or her personality, memories, and even the ability to recognize family members. If you think it is not easy, imagine the family caring for that loved one.
I frequently attend meetings on this topic at Bridges BY EPOCH, a memory care assisted living in Andover dedicated exclusively to these patients. These sessions are devoted to family members who may be caring for someone or want to learn to identify the signals as they age. I find them enlightening!
According to the CDC, nearly 90% of Americans say that if they were exhibiting confusion and memory loss, they would want to know if the cause of the symptoms was Alzheimer’s disease.
Yet over half of those over 45 with subjective cognitive decline have not talked with a healthcare provider about their questions, concerns, and fears.
Among those whose memory problems created functional difficulties, 42% had not shared these issues with a provider.
Seeking a dementia diagnosis is an emotional decision. Fear of judgment and worries about the future or concerns about how loved ones will react. While these feelings are valid, the benefits of early detection can help eliminate some of the stigma around dementia.
The reactions to the diagnosis cannot be predicted because this impacts our jobs, family life, relationships, etc. They could range from shock, sadness, anger, frustration or despair.
Knowing what to expect, families can plan, and even the person with memory loss has more control over their situation. Understanding the situation allows for preparedness to avoid accidents or hospitalizations resulting from the symptoms of dementia.
A positive diagnosis has medical benefits because it eliminates the possibility of other potentially treatable or reversible conditions causing a person’s memory, communication, or behavioral problems.
Certain medical conditions can cause similar symptoms to dementia, including depression, urinary tract infections, thyroid problems, and vitamin deficiencies. Diagnosis allows for a better chance of benefiting from early treatment options, which tend to be more effective in the early stages.
Early diagnosis allows the individual to discuss their personal wishes for each stage of the disease and allows more time for participation in legal, financial, and end-of-life decisions.
It gives the person as much control over their future as possible.
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