Published: 6 August 2021
As we get older it is perfectly natural for our bodies and minds to undergo changes that happen gradually and only become noticeable when they affect our daily lives. We can’t bend down as far as we could, running up the stairs becomes a slow walk up the stairs, climbing in and out of the bath becomes a bit of a struggle, forgetting the odd name here and there - it’s all natural and par for the course. So how do we recognise when these changes are not the usual old age bumps in the road but are signs of something more serious?
When a family member is diagnosed with a Dementia related illness many people express regret for not having noticed the signs sooner . Looking back there may have been small clues such as not being able to recall the correct name for something and using a substitute – think of visiting the Cardiologist being replaced by visiting the Heart Doctor or finding objects in random places, a cup in the fridge and the milk in a cupboard. These moments can also be part of the normal ageing process and are therefore easily overlooked.
If it’s happening to you, it can be extremely distressing and confusing. The fear, the stigma, the loss of independence and the loss of control are what we associate with Dementia and is what most of us are terrified of as we age. Dementia and related illnesses are still very hushed subjects, something we don’t talk about because we don’t want to upset our family and friends. Let’s be honest, when we talk about it, it becomes real and something we must face.
Steps you can take
If you are having issues with your memory, don’t self-diagnose. It’s normally the first thing we do but there are many different reasons for having memory issues which are not dementia related. Try to confide in someone you trust – whatever your health concerns you should try to have the support from someone who cares about you. Just talking to someone can relieve some of the stress and anxiety.
Contact your GP, they will keep it strictly confidential and can either help allay your fears or recommend further tests to discover what is really happening. If you have confided in someone, ask them along for support, they don’t need to talk just be there for you. Another suggestion Wrist-Assured has for you is to prepare for your appointment by writing down the things that are bothering you. What has been happening to make you concerned? Something seemingly small and irrelevant could be of great help to your GP. Having a list means you won’t forget to ask all your questions plus you can make notes for later. We often leave an appointment but can’t remember half of what has been said – reading your notes later will help clarify things.
If you are worried about a family member you should encourage them to see their GP rather than jumping to conclusions. Have a normal conversation with your family member, mention a few things you have noticed but reassure them these things can be happening for many different reasons such as stress or even a severe urine infection. Don’t force them to visit their GP but encourage them to, show support not pressure. Remember if you have noticed changes they probably have as well and may well be afraid.
You can also call https://alzheimer.ie/service/national-helpline/ this is a confidential helpline for people with Dementia and their families/carers. Email: Enable JavaScript to view email address.
Whether it is yourself or a family member, early diagnosis of any form of Dementia is vital.