Blog - ReaDementia

Dementia and Aggression (Complete Guide)

Rok Krivec Blog, Causes, Prevention July 4, 2021October 15, 2021aggression, dementia, dementia and aggression

Since dementia and aggression, both physical and verbal, are very common in patients, we will look at all the possible causes and steps to soothe the situation.

People with dementia might sometimes become verbally or physically aggressive because of the damage that is happening in the brain.

In fact, it can be pretty common, as we experienced it 100s of times.

It is a normal part of the illness, and it can happen to seniors who have NEVER been violent all their lives.

Aggressive outbursts can be difficult and scary for ill persons as well as those around them.

Persons with the illness may start to curse, scowl, scream, hit, bite, grab, throw things, or push.

Family members and friends may not know how to react accordingly when their loved one with dementia starts to behave aggressively.

Below we discuss the possible causes of aggression and how to best approach it in people with dementia.

Causes of Aggression

With most dementia cases, affected persons who start to showcase aggressive behaviors normally do so because they cannot communicate their needs.

They may lash out for various reasons like:

Pain or discomfort
Hunger or thirst
Stress or depression
Soiled clothes or diapers
Lack of enough sleep or rest
Feelings of loss
Constipation
Excessive noise in the room
Sudden changes in routine, well-known places, or people
Feeling lonely
Medicine interactions
The person may misunderstand the good intentions of caregivers
Being pushed by others to complete certain tasks like going out to socialize or remembering events or loved ones, etc.

Practical Tips for Dealing with Aggression

Caregivers may not always understand why dementia patients behave the way they do.

It is, however, important to familiarize yourself with some of the aggressive scenarios that may arise during the illness so that you prepare well for such.

Below we look at some of the best ways to respond when a person with dementia experiences anger outbursts.

Remain Calm

It’s natural to want to fight back or argue when you encounter an aggressive person.

Avoid the urge to do this and, instead, step back, and take several deep breaths before reacting. This will give the person with dementia some space and time.

Although it may not be easy, you should always try to remain as calm as possible when dealing with an individual who is being aggressive for one reason or the other.

You can leave the room if this is what it takes to feel calmer.

If the individual with the illness is showing signs of physical violence, try your best not to show any fear, anxiety, or alarm because this may increase the person’s agitation levels.

It may be difficult, especially in a situation where you feel threatened. If you genuinely feel like the person is a threat, get away from them and immediately call for help.

Unless it is necessary, avoid trying to restrain the person because this escalates the problem further.

Remember to speak calmly, stay positive, and keep reassuring the angry person.

Try and Identify what is Triggering Aggression Episodes

Another way to help an individual with dementia when they are being aggressive is to think about what was happening before the flare-ups.

Frustration, fear, or pain are among likely triggers. For instance, an individual may start yelling at an empty chair or commanding people in the room to leave.

When you look around, you may notice that the room is getting darker; and shadows may start showing up in corners so that it feels like there are other persons in the room.

To help calm the weak person, you can turn on the lights so that the shadows disappear.

If the aggression ceases, you will know to turn on the lights in a room before it becomes shadowy.

Rule out Pain

When a person who has dementia is feeling pain and they cannot voice this out, they are bound to become aggressive.

Before coming up with other solutions, it is important to try and rule out eliminate pain as the cause of aggression.

Some of the things that may cause the individual pain include:

Infections like UTI’s or chest infections
Existing medical conditions like arthritis
Constipation
Bruises, cuts, or other injuries
Sitting, sleeping, or moving around in an uncomfortable position
Earache, toothache, or issues with dentures
Finger or toenails that need trimming, amongst others

You can take the person for eyesight and hearing testing so that they can get hearing aids or glasses if obligatory.

Validate the Person’s Feelings

When dealing with dementia and aggression, you must also try to put yourself in the shoes of the person exhibiting aggression.

Study their body language and try to imagine what they are trying to express or how they are currently feeling.

For example, if a person starts to remove their clothes, they may be feeling too hot, itchy, may need to use the washroom, or they may be feeling like the clothes are too tight.

If you can identify the issue that is bringing out the aggressive behavior, you can solve it with greater ease.

Worth noting is that the individual with dementia will most probably respond to facial expression, body language, and the tone of your voice rather than the words you choose to use.

Smile, use eye contact, or a reassuring touch to show compassion and pass your message. Remember that these behaviors are not personal.

Use Distractions

During anger outbursts, you can try and distract a person so that they can focus on something else.

Soothing or classical music is one of the things that work well for people with dementia and aggression.

If the person is not feeling this type of music, you can always play their favorite tunes.

Singing along to some music as you complete some tasks like brushing teeth or dressing can make these easier.

Other than music, you can also shift focus to another enjoyable activity. This primarily works if a previous or current event is the cause of the agitation.

Give the person with dementia a moment to vent before you introduce a new activity so that you do not surprise them and make the problem worse.

Moreover, exercise can also be part of the distraction. Working out will not only help to reduce aggression, but it will improve sleep as well.

This can also offer social interaction opportunities providing caregivers a much-needed break.

Calm the Environment

At times, the room that a person is in may be the cause of aggression. A high percentage of people with dementia are usually sensitive to their environment.

This is especially if there is too much noise that is coming from other people, TV, radio, or other sources.

If the individual cannot get out of the room for one reason or another, you can politely ask the others to tone down.

Switching off devices that are making noise can also help to calm the situation.

Other steps that you can take to create a relaxing environment include carefully selected decorations.

Do this by contrasting the colors of floors and walls, and making sure that you cover mirrors when they are not in use.

It also helps to improve lighting and ensuring that the things that a person needs are within reach.

Be Realistic with Expectations

When you are trying to cope with dementia and aggression, it is also important to be realistic about expectations.

Note that some calming techniques can work within no time while others take a while before bringing forth any positive results.

Depending on an individual some may not even work.

Learn to practice patience and understand that the person is not aggressive because they want to.

Always ask for help when you feel that you are stuck so that you remain in the right frame of mind when looking after the person with dementia.

Ensure Safety

You will notice that sometimes the person with dementia just needs a few minutes on their own to calm down or even forget that they are angry.

This means that you should leave them alone in the room so that they can regain balance.

Before you leave a person on their own, it is essential to ensure that the room is safe.

There are a couple of things you can do to enhance safety such as getting rid of clutter so that a person can move around with ease.

Marking doors or leaving them open can also help reduce confusion inside the house.

Experts also suggest that adding keepsakes or photos can help to evoke positive memories creating a pleasant environment.

If you feel like the individual with dementia is not safe at home, it may be time to consider a care facility.

All you need to do is carefully look for one that will take care of the needs of your loved ones so that they live a comfortable life despite dementia.

Dementia and Aggression Closing Thoughts

It is advisable to always look for the early warning signs of dementia and aggression.

This is because it is easier to deal with the cause before extreme behavior problems start.

Never try and ignore this issue because it will only become worse. When the aggression becomes overwhelming, consulting a doctor might be the only solution.

The medic will perform a medical exam to identify the cause of aggression.

When the need is, the professional may prescribe medication that can help to prevent or reduce aggression.

Can Alzheimer’s Medication Make You Worse?

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention July 2, 2021October 15, 2021alzheimer's disease, medication

One of the questions that seniors ask us regularly is: Can Alzheimer’s medication make you worse?

Even though there is still no cure for the progressive illness, some dementia specialists may prescribe Alzheimer’s medication that may help to manage symptoms.

But can the condition get worse?

Let’s explore the effects of AD medication below and whether or not you should be taking it.

The Effect of Alzheimer’s Medication

Different scenarios play out when a person with AD takes Alzheimer’s medicine. For some, the medication offers relief to some symptoms an individual is facing.

A percentage of individuals will not get any results after taking the medicine.

Some people can become worse after they start taking the medication.

This goes to show that it is not possible to say yes or no when answering the query can Alzheimer’s medication make you worse.

David Perlmutter a professional neurologist is of the point of view that medication should be a last resort when taking care of an individual with AD.

He states that most drugs prescribed to treat AD are associated with more aggressive cognitive function decline.

David urges physicians to change their care approach.

He reports that he has dealt with the progressive illness for years having lost his dad to the disease and has not yet identified any medication that helps.

Should you Take Alzheimer’s Medication

The decision on whether or not to take Alzheimer’s medicine is not a simple one. Several factors come into play.

Examples of things a person should consider before taking the medication include:

Understanding that the medication does not work for everyone and even if it works it may not make a significant difference.
Finding out what’s the medication for and the results to expect after taking the medicine.
Cost implications: AD medicine may be quite costly. A person can try taking them for some time to see if they are helpful and worth the investment.
Side Effects: most drugs that people with Alzheimer’s take have a variety of side effects that an individual may have to deal with. Make sure you discuss this with your doctor to get expert advice on whether or not to take the medication.
Drug Interaction: if the person with AD is taking other types of medication, it is important to discuss this with the physician to know whether it is okay to take additional medication.
How the medication will be taken: Affected persons and their caregivers should also consider how the medication should be taken to ensure they do it in the right way. Always take medication as directed by a professional physician to be on the safe side. Record any changes that happen after taking the meds and discuss this immediately with the doctor to know the next course of action.

Takeaway

When it comes to Alzheimer’s medication it is important to note that they do not work the same for everyone.

The medication will also not cure the illness or stop its progressions.

Experts also state that the effects of pharmaceutical drugs normally wear off over time.

It is one of the reasons it is not easy to answer the query can Alzheimer’s medication make you worse?

For some people, the medication will help while in others it can end up making things worse.

It is, therefore, ideal to take Alzheimer’s medication for as long as they prove useful.

In cases where medication does not work, affected persons, physicians, and caregivers should explore other ways of managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Research is, however, ONGOING to identify or develop more effective drugs that can help people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Bonus: 2 Types of Alzheimer’s Medication

Mayo Clinic reports that there are two types of pharmaceutical drugs approved by the FDA that might help manage the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

1. Cholinesterase inhibitors

These help boost the amount of acetylcholine in the nerve cells by preventing its breakdown in the brain.

One of the hallmarks of an Alzheimer’s brain is decreasing levels of acetylcholine a chemical messenger that is important for memory, alertness, judgment, and thought.

Because cholinesterase inhibitors cannot stop the destruction of nerve cells or reverse AD, their effect ends up dwindling as the illness continues to progress and brain cells are forced to produce less acetylcholine.

Common side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. It normally helps to start with a low dose and gradually move to a higher/recommended dose.

Examples of cholinesterase inhibitors include:

1. Galantamine: It is primarily i use to treat mild or moderate Alzheimer’s. Affected individuals can either take a pill once every day or an extended-release capsule two times a day.

2. Rivastigmine: Approved for mild to moderate AD and it comes as a pill. A skin patch is also available for persons who have severe Alzheimer’s.

3. Donepezil: Taken as a single pill daily, this is used to treat all Alzheimer’s stages.

2. Memantine

This is mostly in use to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s.

It helps to regulate glutamate activity a messenger chemical that is involved in multiple brain functions including memory and learning.

It is available as a syrup or pill. Common side effects include agitation, confusion, dizziness, and headache.

As Alzheimer’s disease continues to progress your symptoms may change which leads to adjustments in care plans.

Your doctor will conduct an ongoing review to decide whether or not to include AD medication in the care plan.

Note that there is also different medication that doctors prescribe to help deal with emotional and behavioral symptoms that persons with AD may have.

These include agitation, lack of sleep, appetite issues, confusion, paranoia, and many others.

The medicines can include antipsychotics, anti-depressants, sleep aids, and anti-anxiety medication, etc.

Statins and Dementia Risk (For Prevention?)

Rok Krivec Blog, Causes June 29, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, signs of dementia, statins and dementia

We take a closer look at the possible connection between statins and dementia risk? Could the medication prevent the disease? Or does it cause memory loss?

Statins are a class of medication that lower cholesterol levels in the human body.

They block the enzyme responsible for making cholesterol in the liver.

This helps to reduce the risk of heart attack, chest pain, and stroke.

Additionally, some studies are now focusing on the use of statins and dementia risk.

Dementia has fast grown to become a healthcare concern around the globe. The disease already affects millions of people, and there are predictions that the numbers will double after two decades.

This means that the number of people who have dementia might rise to 74.7 million in 2025 and a whopping 152 million by 2050.

The fact that the disease does not have a cure does not help.

There was excitement when earlier studies revealed that there might be a connection between dementia prevention and statins use.

Later studies, however, did not draw similar promising inferences.

Experts continue to explore different avenues to introduce solid ways of preventing the development and progression of dementia.

While on this journey, researchers stumbled on the likelihood of statins reducing the risk of dementia. There are different types of statins that slightly differ from one another.

Some are also more likely to enter the brain than others.

Researchers claim that statins are instrumental when it comes to preventing and treating dementia, especially in middle-aged people.

Worth noting is that the results of one type of statin may not necessarily translate to another. This is because the drugs will regulate and prevent cholesterol metabolism in the brain.

Do statins have the potential to prevent dementia?

Although statins have the potential to prevent the development of dementia, there are still some concerns about the safety of the drugs that need to be addressed.

It is mostly due to the conflicting results that studies have concerning the association of dementia and the use of statins.

Some observational studies report that in some cases, the use of statins is associated with a decrease in the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and dementia, as well as improvement of cognitive impairment.

Other studies refute these findings stating that statin use is not related to the risk of dementia.

One of the studies that support the fact that the meds can help with dementia risk decrement base their results on the fact that elevated serum cholesterol and high-cholesterol diet are risk factors for dementia and coronary heart disease.

They further support the theory by stating that hypercholesterolemia can be deposited in the hippocampus part of the brain.

This causes degeneration of neurons, which results in Alzheimer’s disease.

Statins may come in to reduce B-amyloid formation, which is possible through decreasing harmful cholesterol levels.

Statins are known to have a stable homeostasis effect on the nervous cholesterol system.

This gets in the way of cholesterol synthesis which lowers the cholesterol levels; thus, preventing metabolism of the amyloid precursor protein

The connection between Dementia and Cholesterol

Research suggests a possible connection between dementia and high cholesterol levels.

This is important to study when looking at how statins and dementia relate. Cholesterol is a fatty substance present in the body’s cells and blood.

A doctor can measure a person’s cholesterol levels to determine if there are healthy or harmful levels in the bloodstream.

The body makes this substance naturally, and you can also consume it in certain foods.

Studies are seeking to prove the connection between dementia and cholesterol look at several ways that link these two.

Evidence, although scanty, shows that high levels of cholesterol in a person’s blood can increase the risk of a person developing dementia, especially during mid-life.

Furthermore, if you have high levels of cholesterol in your blood, there is a high chance that you have other factors that can cause dementia.

These include factors like diabetes and high blood pressure.

This implies that it is complex to separate cholesterol and dementia.

Investigations are also going on to determine the role that cholesterol plays in the brain to lead to dementia development.

Statins and Memory Loss

When discussing statins and dementia, it is also important to talk about memory loss as one of the side effects of medications.

A section of patients who have high cholesterol has been on record saying that they experience memory loss while taking the meds.

This led the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) to update statins safety information to include confusion, forgetfulness, and memory loss as possible side effects or risks.

Researchers have done several tests about this, but to date, there is still no evidence that statins are responsible for memory loss.

Researchers from John Hopkins Medicine in 2013 took to examine 41 studies to uncover the link between memory loss and statins.

All the studies followed 23,000 women and men who did not have any history with memory problems for about 25 years.

The professionals did not pick up on any evidence that supports the notion that statins cause loss of memory.

Note that the percentage of people on statins who had memory issues was not significantly different from those taking other medication that helps to lower cholesterol.

Instead, analyzing those studies revealed evidence that long-term use of statins may protect people against dementia.

Experts believe that some dementia types are brought about by blockages in the blood vessels that supply the brain with blood.

Taking statins can help to reduce some of the blockages.

Cognitive Function and Statins

To further understand the relationship between statins and dementia, you must note that cholesterol is essential for brain function.

Around 25% of the body’s cholesterol is present in the brain. This helps with membrane function. It is possible that inhibition of cholesterol synthetic pathways theoretically results in adverse neurocognitive effects.

Statins might reduce cholesterol synthesis in a person’s brain; hence, interfere with myelin function and formation.

On the other hand, statins can also induce a decrease in coenzyme- Q10 levels, which may result in weakened mitochondrial functioning, as well as an increase in oxidative stress, which can also affect cognition.

Statins may as well have an impact on cholesterol levels.

Can Statins Reduce Risk of Dementia after Concussion

JAMA Neurology published a study that suggests the use of statins reduces the risk of dementia in older adults after a concussion.

Researchers in this study evaluated billing data from physicians from the Ontario Health Insurance Plan.

They combined this with computerized health care records for dementia risk after a concussion in seniors over 66 years with and without statins use.

The population that took part in the study were older people who had experienced a concussion without a diagnosis of severe brain injury.

After thorough investigations, it revealed that the use of statins reduces the development of dementia by 13% when compared to the persons who were not on the medications.

An increase in prior hospitalization, physician visits, urban home location, total prescriptions, lower socioeconomic status, and older age were factors considered to increase dementia risk.

The experts also noted that other medications that participants took did not make a difference in the reduction of dementia risk. The meds did not make things better or worse.

Statin was the only exception among the other cardiovascular and lipid-lowering medicine.

Because there are different types of statins, deeper analysis showcased that Rosuvastatin was responsible for the largest reduction risk while simvastatin had the opposite effect (smallest reduction risk).

There was a correlation between the time participants took statins with higher/lower benefits, but the dosage did not affect the results.

Researchers in this study concluded that although elderly individuals have a higher dementia risk after suffering a concussion, there is a modest reduction in the risk of dementia for the persons who receive a statin.

Clinical Trials on the Use of Statins to Reduce Dementia Risk

Studying statins and dementia demands looking into suitable clinical trials that can either support or refute the claim that statins are beneficial for reducing the risk of dementia.

There are multiple clinical trials in medical databases that compare administering statin as a pretend medicine or placebo to individuals with normal cognitive function and those who are at the age where they risk getting dementia.

Many trials did not show a reduction in the occurrence of dementia in people who use statins or placebo.

Side effects were also low in both groups.

It is, however, impossible to give accurate results of the trials because several limitations exist in these studies to provide proper results.

Researchers will, nonetheless, continue to improve these trials so that in the future, they can give an adequate deduction as to whether or not the use of statins can help with the prevention or treatment of dementia.

Statins and Dementia Closing Thoughts

The topic of the use of statins and dementia is COMPLEX. There is a need for more research to give conclusive results on how taking the medications can help reduce the risk of dementia.

In the future, experts may be in a position to identify individuals who can benefit from the use of statin based on genetic profiles of other factors of dementia risk.

For now, medics recommend that people follow healthy lifestyles first and foremost.

This includes regular exercise, eating well, and getting quality sleep.

The aforementioned are some of the ways that can help to reduce dementia risk.

18 Best Dementia Books For Children (2022)

ReaDementia Team Blog June 25, 2021January 19, 2022children's book, dementia and children, dementia books for children

We carefully reviewed 50+ dementia books for children with our little ones to pick the best 18.

Nowadays, it is a bit easier to talk to young ones about dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Which we absolutely should.

When a close relative develops dementia, it may be a confusing time for the young minds as they have to deal with all the challenges that are happening.

At this point, our kids NEED ALL THE SUPPORT they need to get through the new developments.

While it may be natural to want to protect our children, it is always best to let them know the truth in a way that they will understand.

Answer any questions the children have gently.

Remind them that their loved one is STILL a person and even though there may be changes.

Inform them that they can STILL spend quality time with their grandparents or parents but be sure to highlight boundaries so that everyone ends up having a good time.

It is also important to prepare the little ones for the unexpected, seeing that the illness comes with unpredictability.

If you are caught in a situation where you have to talk to children about dementia, there are plenty of resources you can use to your advantage.

Here is a list of the best books that will help you.

Best Alzheimer’s & Dementia Books For Children

1. Granny Mary Thinks Differently

Granny Mary Thinks Differently is an adorable children’s book that looks at the experience young Anna goes through when her grandmother gets diagnosed with dementia.

Our young ones can easily relate to the different activities that a grandchild and a grandparent enjoy together. Not only through words but also through the lovely illustrations, which make Granny Mary Thinks Differently an excellent picture book about dementia.

The book ends with a compelling statement that left a strong impression on us.

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2. I Smile For Grandpa: A loving story about dementia disease for young children

I Smile for Grandpa takes young minds through a beautiful transformational journey of a young boy (Little Buddy) and his grandpa, who has developed dementia. Little Buddy realizes that spending time with his grandpa will no longer be the same.

Written by Jaclyn Guenette and illustrated by Kathryn Harrison, the book does a great job at captivating the various behavior and emotions that people with dementia exhibit.

A great read for all ages, it offers a better understanding of dementia through the eyes of children.

It is one of the dementia books for children that offer reassurance and hope for the little ones without protecting them from the realities of the illness.

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3. Granny Can’t Remember Me: A Children’s Book About Alzheimer’s

Granny Can’t Remember me is an endearing story by Susan McCormick who is an award-winning author and a doctor. It is about Joey, a 6-year-old boy and his granny.

Granny has lost her memory and can’t remember most of the things that Joey likes. However, she still spends quality time with Joey telling him stories reassuring the young man of her love.

The book offers background on Alzheimer’s disease addressing the illness warmly and sensitively.

The primary lesson children can draw from this book is that older persons with Alzheimer’s can still be loved and show love.

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4. When My Granny Forgets, I Remember: A Child’s Perspective on Dementia

Authored by Toby Haberkorn, When My Granny Forgets, I Remember is one of the most wonderfully written dementia books for children with charming illustrations.

The book tells a story of the shifting relationship between a grandmother and her granddaughter. It starts with examples of grandma doing fun activities with her grandchild.

As time goes by, the little girl notices that her granny constantly forgets things and acts strangely.

She has a conversation with her mum and the little girl knows that her beloved grandma has a brain disease.

The sweet and short storybook is perfect for helping young kids understand the changes that people go through after developing dementia.

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5. Always My Grandpa: A Story for Children About Alzheimer’s Disease

A thoughtful book, Always My Grandpa brings up various issues that people with dementia deal with. These include repeating questions, forgetfulness, and the fact that the illness can cause a person to die sooner.

It talks about Daniel and his mother and how they usually spend summer with his grandfather. Then, Grandpa begins to change, and little Daniel discovers that his grandpa has Alzheimer’s.

It is an excellent resource for kids who are watching their grandparents suffer from the disease.

While it is an easy read, Linda Scacco, the author offers a realistic explanation of a subject that can be quite difficult for youngsters.

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6. Striped Shirts and Flowered Pants: A Story About Alzheimer’s Disease for Young Children

Written by Barbara Schnurbush, this is a fun book that delicately explains to young persons’ how Alzheimer’s disease can change the lives of their grandparents.

It follows the life of Libby and her nana, who start by engaging in tons of fun activities, but things start to change.

Libby learns that her nana has Alzheimer’s disease and through reassurance from her family, she learns it is okay for her grandma to wear flowered pants and striped shirts.

In as much as it is one of the helpful dementia books for children, adults can also use it to get some pointers for helping their kids deal with their worries and feelings.

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7. Grandma and Me: A Kid’s Guide for Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Starring Matthew, a young boy who has a special relationship with his grandmother, Grandma and Me is a collaborative effort between Beatrice Tauber, a psychologist, and Mary Ann, a registered nurse.

The book addresses Alzheimer’s disease with a lot of understanding and love focusing on the age-appropriate descriptions of the illness.

The book features attractive artwork that will grab the attention of young readers, keeping them interested in the information the book has to offer.

It gives kids useful tools to continue having loving and positive relationships with their loved ones despite the challenges that the disease brings about.

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8. Weeds in Nana’s Garden: A Heartfelt Story of Love That Explain Alzheimer’s Disease and other Dementias

Weeds in Nana’s Garden is one of the dementia books for children aged between 9-12 years will enjoy. It talks about a young girl who is fond of helping her nana in the garden.

Weeds attack the garden and grandma is not sure if she should remove them. So, together with her granddaughter, they pull the tall weeds in the garden and it continues to blossom beautifully.

The book features whimsical, colorful, and bright illustrations. Other than this, it tackles the topic of Alzheimer’s disease in a heartfelt and provocative manner.

Kathryn Harrison (author) does a great job at fostering compassion and sympathy by harmoniously blending emotional engagement, inspiration, and education.

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9. Why Did Grandma Put Her Underwear in the Refrigerator? : An Explanation of Alzheimer’s Disease for Children

Why Did Grandma Put Her Underwear in the Refrigerator is a book told from the point of view of Julie, a 7-year-old girl.

Julie lives with her grandma, who has developed Alzheimer’s disease. The dynamics of Julie’s relationship with her nana end up changing when they can no longer enjoy their past activities.

The young girl comes up with new ways to maintain her relationship with grandma.

The simple yet relatable book by Carolyn Given and Max Wallack presents several embarrassing and stressful situations that a family may have to deal with when taking care of a person who has Alzheimer’s and how to address them in the best possible way.

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10. My Book About Brains, Change, and Dementia: What is Dementia and What Does it Do?

Thoughtfully written by Lynda Moore, My Book about Brains, Change, and Dementia is a great read for preschoolers and adults alike. It is one of the dementia books for children that simplify dementia without disguising the illness.

It explains various concepts of the disease, including functions of the brain and how the disease progresses.

The book does a great job of breaking down dementia misconceptions. It also includes two pages on death that readers can skip if the little angels cannot understand the concept.

The book ends with a question section that kids and adults can deliberate over.

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11. Can I Tell You About Dementia: A Guide for Family, Friends, and Carers

Offering a fresh approach to dementia, Can I Tell You About Dementia is one of the books that offer a simple guide to dementia for both adults and children.

This is done through the experience of Jack, an older man who is living with dementia. He lets readers into his world, talking about the challenges that people with the disease face.

The first-person approach in this piece makes the details more personal.

The book also features a couple of informative pages that explain an overview of different dementia types, figures, facts, dementia-friendly environments, and resources that people with the illness will find useful.

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12. What Happens When My Grandparent Has Alzheimer’s Disease?

An insightful book with 24 pages, this is one of the dementia books for children ideal for young boys and girls aged 7-10 years.

Christine Honders (author) has crafted the book so that young readers can understand what Alzheimer’s disease is. She uses simple language that all readers can easily understand.

It also offers healthy coping strategies that the young ones can use when someone they love deals with the disease.

The book has been skillfully illustrated with suitable images and text aid readers that help give a better picture of the illness and the changes that will come along.

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13. Sometimes Even Elephants Forget: A Story About Alzheimer’s Disease for Young Children

A charming book by Kathleen Welch, Sometimes Even Elephants Forget presents an enlightening story about dementia. It provides a wonderful tale that resonates with kids of all ages.

Welch illustrates some of the communication and behavioral changes that persons with Alzheimer’s disease face. She delicately does this in a way that young kids can accept and understand.

The book beautifully captures the challenges of the illness. It offers readers an enjoyable view of the patience and kindness people can exercise when facing behavior from grandparents.

It also has pretty amazing drawings that will keep readers interested from the beginning to the end.

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14. Fishing with Grandpa: A Children’s Story About Alzheimer’s

In Fishing with Grandpa, a young boy recounts some pleasant memories where he spends his summers with his grandpa. They go out to sea to fish and engage in conversations.

When his grandpa gets Alzheimer’s, he can no longer go out on their fishing trips or carry out conversations as they did in the past.

The book written by Rebecca Hummel Kenyon explains the effects that Alzheimer’s has on young kids.

These include the symptoms that affected persons have and how children can cope with the changes.

It is one of the dementia books for children that is quite an eye-opener for both adult and young readers.

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15. The World’s Greatest Grandpa: A Children’s Guide to Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

The World’s Greatest Grandpa is an incredible book that gives a good sense of what Alzheimer’s disease is all about.

It is centered on Quincy, a young boy who is 8 years old, and his relationship with his grandpa, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease.

It lets young kids understand why their grandparents may be behaving differently when they get dementia. The book not only teaches young ones about brain disease but also teaches caring and compassion for the elderly.

To give the readers more information, the book offers a list of credible resources and a glossary of terms at the end.

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16. Big Momma’s Sweet Potato Pies: A Children’s Guide to Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Big Momma’s Sweet Potato Pies is an incredible book authored by Dr. Joseph Morris. It tells a story of a sweet grandma who is known for her delicious sweet potato pies.

However, she can no longer make the potato pies when she develops Alzheimer’s disease and the illness starts progressing.

Grandma no longer remembers the recipe, and she is not even safe working in the kitchen alone. However, her sister steps in and offers a hand.

Big Momma’s passion and hard work grow to make significant support to doctors and scientists working hard to discover an Alzheimer’s disease cure.

This is one of the dementia books for children with creative and colorful illustrations to keep things interesting.

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17. Understanding Alzheimer’s: A Coloring Book for Children

Written by Darlyn Davis, Understanding Alzheimer’s is one of the most interesting books that kids can use to learn about the progressive illness.

She came up with the idea for the book after watching her great-grandma suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. She went on to be an advocate for research and awareness by volunteering with assisted living homes and the Alzheimer’s Association.

The book offers readers an opportunity to have fun as they learn about the disease and its effects it has on our little ones. The book mostly focuses on introducing Alzheimer’s indicators.

This is presented in a fun way, so that young kids get an insight into how to identify the illness.

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18. What’s Wrong With Grandpa? A Children’s Story About Alzheimer’s Disease

Based on a true story, What’s Wrong with Grandpa is one of the must-read books for anyone looking to educate kids on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types.

It focuses on a loving relationship between a grandfather and Daisy, a ten-year-old young girl. Grandpa is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Daisy is disheartened to see her grandfather go through multiple changes.

He becomes more forgetful and confused while spending time with her granddaughter.

The book brings out a great transformational relationship between granddaughter and grandfather through Daisy’s tenderness and love.

Authored by Danielle Cohen, this is one of the dementia books for children ideal for young ones between the ages of 6 to 8.

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Granny Mary Thinks Differently: Children’s Book About Dementia

ReaDementia Team Blog, Resources June 23, 2021June 16, 2024children's book, dementia, dementia and children, explaining dementia to children

Granny Mary Thinks Differently is an eBook for everyone in the family facing dementia.

Dementia is a syndrome that does not have a cure yet. Unfortunately, it affects every family member, including children.

It happens very commonly in families that we completely forsake explaining dementia to children. It is a challenging term for a child to understand. That’s why we need to teach them about the condition their grandparent is facing.

Very often, the child and the grandparent are best friends. However, when dementia occurs, their relationship can change drastically.

Sometimes, kids think it’s their fault, which can even lead to depression.

Explaining Dementia to Children and Young People

With lovely and educational children’s book, Granny Mary Thinks Differently, you can now educate your child about dementia conveniently.

Through carefully picked words and engaging illustrations, your child will understand that dementia is a disease.

They will learn that they are not guilty of a negative reaction from grandparents. The book will also help them stop having the feeling that grandparents no longer like them.

Tell your child when you feel sad, angry, tired, or in a bad mood because of your grandparent’s dementia.

Emphasize that the child is not to blame for your feelings and that he or she has done nothing wrong.

Talk to Children and Young People About Dementia

Additionally, allow the child to talk about their fears, concerns, and emotions related to the changes they observe and experience in grandparents or the family.

It is important that the child does not experience feelings of guilt. You should clearly explain to your child that no one in the family is to blame for the illness – dementia.

At the same time, we need to assure the child that he will not get dementia and that he should not worry about his future or his parents’ future (dementia is rarely hereditary).

If you teach a child about the disease (especially about the noticeable signs that he will easily notice), it will not affect him.

This especially applies to situations when the grandparent forgets his name, repeatedly asks the same question, will no longer want to read them a fairy tale, or even becomes angry at them.

The child will know that this is an expression of the disease. Not the fact that the grandparent no longer likes him/her.

We can also direct the child to preventive action like reading, exercise, quality sleep, learning, healthy eating.

In short, explaining what is good for the brain and how he/she should take care of his/her body to be healthy for as long as possible.

Knowledge is a cure (for the whole family) when we face dementia.

The more information and knowledge a child has about dementia, the easier it will be to find themselves in a new position. When you do not have the answers to all the questions, your child has asked you, find information and solutions together.

Granny Mary Thinks Differently

We discover dementia and get to know it through the childhood curiosity of Granny Mary’s granddaughter, Anna.

Hidden in the story are important questions about age, illness, family, friendship, and love, which gives us the strength and courage to cope with the changes that dementia brings to the family.

There are currently about 50 million people who have dementia globally.

The number keeps increasing by almost 10 million each year.

Thus, the topic is rapidly becoming more and more relevant, both on a daily basis and in children’s literature. Changes that come with the disease touch all family members.

Furthermore, everyone accepts the effects of dementia differently, so studying the condition carefully is very important, especially in children.

Children’s world

The book is dedicated to all families, but especially to the grandchildren of grandparents who think differently.

The heartiness and patience of Anna, the granddaughter of grandmother Mary, will invite you to the children’s world, which is often ignored and overlooked when we face illness – dementia – in the family.

By talking to a child in an understandable and acceptable way, we make them aware and influence the recognition and understanding of dementia in society.

Dear Grandma, Grandpa

Even if you forget everything, you will not be forgotten. Let this children’s book on dementia be a display of love that gives us the strength and courage to face change.

Dementia changes a person, but it does not change the family and the love that embraces it.

Dear Granddaughter, Grandson

Let the book be a consolation to you when the days are hard and when you don’t understand your grandmother or grandfather due to their challenging condition.

Remember that the illness needs love. Your help and warmth are always valuable. Ask any question you may have and seek knowledge.

Reviews & Comments – Granny Mary Thinks Differently

Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA

“This is a very helpful resource designed to help children better understand why someone they love is changing and seems so different. Petra Boh has done an excellent job of comparing the normal role and relationship of a special Grandma with what might be a new possibility after significant symptoms have started to appear. The illustrator, Andreja Karba, has done terrific work creating a mix of scenes that have action in them, while also highlighting some of the objects or emotions that could be identified by children. This is so needed by families around the world who are coping with these very real situations.” – Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, Founder of Positive Approach to Care®

Cameron J. Camp, Ph.D., Director of Research and Development, Center for Applied Research in Dementia

“In Granny Mary Thinks Differently we are given the opportunity to see a woman with dementia through the eyes of her granddaughter, Anna. A strong message throughout is the power of love to maintain our humanity. As her granddaughter sees changes in her grandmother, the little girl also learns how to adapt to these changes so that she can maintain their positive and loving relationship. This is a powerful and important lesson to learn, for Anna and for all of us.”

Zvezdan Pirtosek, M.D., Ph.D.

“Dementia – a word that a doctor wrote in grandmother’s medical record. In front of little Anna, curious and playful, a new world has unfolded, in which her beloved grandmother thinks and behaves differently than before. In “Granny Mary Thinks Differently,” Anna reveals her wonder and her sadness, but also her acceptance, understanding, and finally, the realization that touches us deeply – especially when expressed by a child. The body can become numb, the mind tiresome, and the memory fades – but not the friendship and love that Anna will always feel for her grandmother.”

Laura Herman, Elder and Dementia Care Professional

“My kids are ages 7 and 8, and I was curious as to how they’d react to Petra Boh’s new children’s book about dementia: ‘Granny Mary Thinks Differently.’ We sat down to read it together. They were immediately drawn in by Andreja Karba’s sweet and colorful illustrations. They delighted in small details, like the framed rabbit portraits that appear throughout the pages. Both kids enjoyed reading about how 7-year-old Anna and Granny Mary spent their time together. They instantly related, and imagined sharing these activities with their own grandmother.”

“They found themselves very engaged in the story. As Granny Mary started to decline, my 8 year old boy choked up, commenting that he didn’t know what he’d do if his Memaw started feeling and acting like that. He especially appreciated the pages about how Anna and the doggie could help Granny Mary feel better when she was having a hard time.”

Teodora Ghiur, Cognitive Neuroscience

“Informative, engaging, and accurate, this e-book is an excellent educational tool for all children. Unfortunately, memory degeneration has become a part of life for many of us growing and living with grandparents. Using story-telling and strong visual imagery, this short e-book explains topics that are often painful to put into words, like Alzheimer’s and Dementia in an easy-to-understand and dynamic format. Written into a compassionate tone of voice, this e-book offers excellent science-based information in a language accessible to the little ones.”

Jana Mali, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Faculty of Social Work

“The main narrator of the story is seven-year-old Anna, who describes how she experiences Granny Mary’s changes due to dementia. This children’s book is a good example of how parents can approach the world of dementia with their child by reading Anna’s story. A child’s perspective on understanding dementia; a world that is different from ours because thinking happens in a special way.

It’s important that Granny Mary remains the main character of the story from beginning to end, as the perspective of people with dementia is still too often overlooked in everyday practices. The recording of the story through the view of a person with dementia represents a great signpost for a change in the relationship we have with people experiencing dementia. We expect changes in a better understanding of dementia, most from the young and middle generation representatives, who will also be the most likely to pick up the book. Let’s take the time to share this children’s book with our kids and consider the next steps for a healthy relationship with people with dementia.”

Aluminum and Alzheimer’s Disease (Cause?)

Rok Krivec Blog, Prevention, Signs June 21, 2021October 15, 2021aluminum, aluminum and alzheimer's, alzheimer's disease

we continue to explore the link between aluminum and Alzheimer’s when examining the causes and risk factors of the progressive disease.

Note: Aluminum (Al) is one of the elements that are in abundance in the world.

It occurs naturally in water and food.

The element is also widely in use by multiple industries as well as products that people use daily. These include cosmetics, cookware, cans, and medication, etc.

Some studies suggest that this chemical element associates with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). There are two main reasons this may be the case:

1. A considerable percentage of people with AD have been found to have HIGHER LEVELS of aluminum in the cerebrospinal fluid, serum, and brain.

2. Al bioaccumulates in cells, which results in bringing changes that are associated with loss of atrophy and function consistent with MRI findings in Alzheimer’s patient’s brains.

These factors led researchers to believe that elevated Al levels may either play a role in the development of the progressive disease or have a hand with its progression.

The idea was introduced in 1965 when researchers conducted a study with rabbits.

They found that the animals developed poisonous tau tangles in the brain after they were injected with high levels of aluminum.

This is another observation that led experts to believe that the chemical element plays a role in the development or worsening of Alzheimer’s disease.

The results of the injections were only positive after exposure to EXTREMELY high levels of the element. Note that this far exceeds the standards present in food or aluminum cookware that get into the human body.

How people consume aluminum?

Ever since the study, researchers have been trying to figure out if it is true that aluminum is one of the elements that causes Alzheimer’s.

Currently, only a couple of studies show a link between the illness and aluminum.

The others, which are a majority, conclude that there is nothing to worry about when it comes to Al and Alzheimer’s.

A couple of scenarios play out when looking for evidence on the same. There are different ways people consume aluminum.

Drinking Water

Different meta-analyses studied the association between aluminum levels in the water people drink and the risk of dementia.

The results were inconclusive. One particular study involved around four thousand seniors in France.

It concluded that taking water with excess aluminum by just 0.1 mg a day increased the risk of Alzheimer’s three times.

The studies also reveal that other elements present in drinking water, such as iron, copper, zinc, or fluoride, might also affect cognitive function.

Drinking Tea

Surprisingly, tea is one of the few plants whose leaves have a huge trace of aluminum. This element typically seeps into the brewed beverage.

Even so, there is still no evidence that Alzheimer’s is more prevalent in cultures that drink a lot of tea.

Medication

Some medications, specifically antacids and anti-ulcerative, usually have high aluminum levels.

A majority of antacids have about 35-208 mg per dose and it is higher for anti-ulcerative at 35-1450 mg per dose.

This is because aluminum hydroxide reduces acidity in the stomach.

Luckily, there are some aluminum-free options available, like Tums and Rolaids. Multiple studies, however, report that taking antacids regularly has nothing to do with Alzheimer’s disease.

More investigations are needed to give a true reflection of the relationship between the risk of Alzheimer’s and the use of antacids.

Use of Aluminum Pots and Pans

Many people fear that when they use aluminum cookware, beverage cans, foil, and other products, they will be exposed to harmful levels of the element.

The use of aluminum pans and pots contributes to a tiny percentage of the average intake of aluminum in human beings.

Realistically, it is also difficult to reduce exposure to aluminum significantly by avoiding aluminum kitchen products.

Use of Antiperspirants

Another subject that needs to be studied more when it comes to the correlation between aluminum and Alzheimer’s is antiperspirant usage.

These contain aluminum salts that dissolve into the surface of the skin to form a barrier with the sweat ducts temporarily.

This stops sweat from flowing to the skin’s surface.

To date, there is still no study that pinpoints Alzheimer’s risk to the use of antiperspirants that have aluminum.

However, some show a link between breast cancer and the use of antiperspirants.

Multiple studies report that the body does not easily absorb aluminum salts in antiperspirant products. If some of the element gets in, the kidneys readily flush this out.

Conflicting Findings

When talking about aluminum and Alzheimer’s, years of research has brought forth a lot of conflicting information.

Some of the findings support the notion that excessive aluminum can be a risk factor for Alzheimer’s, while others dispute this heavily.

Examples of some of the conclusions published include:

1. A few studies suggest that people who have Alzheimer’s disease have increased levels of aluminum in the brain. Other studies state this is not the case.

2. Some studies have found that there is a higher risk of people with occupational exposure to get dementia.

Understanding the Role of Aluminum in Alzheimer’s disease

Several environmental factors like diabetes, aging, drinking alcohol, smoking, trauma, and ischemia, etc. pose as risks of Alzheimer’s disease.

Al, on the other hand, may not play a significant role when it comes to cognitive decline and AD.

Nevertheless, the element might contribute to faster cognitive decline, especially in the older population, whether a person has Alzheimer’s or not.

More studies, however, need to be conducted to support this hypothesis.

Experts also acknowledge that it is challenging to study the effects of Al because the element is practically everywhere. A little dust may end up contaminating a sample compromising the results of a study.

The fact that aluminum is a pervasive element on earth implies it is hard to pinpoint the duration, dosage, and frequency of individual-level exposure.

Consequently, establishing, and cause and effect linkage between aluminum and Alzheimer’s is COMPLEX.

Why Aluminum May Be an Alzheimer’s disease Risk Factor

As much as most studies show that AL has little to do with Alzheimer’s, some studies state otherwise.

An example of such is one led by Dr. Walter Lukiw a neuroscientist and professor of Ophthalmology, Neurology, and Neuroscience.

Together with other researchers, Dr. Lukiw’s team summarized several factors that link AD to aluminum, such as:

1. Al promotes beta-amyloid plaques in the brain at the same levels as those that are present in humans.

2. Aluminum enhances the brain inflammation by increasing nuclear factor kappa beta, a pro-inflammatory molecule. The molecule is usually present in the brains of persons who have Alzheimer’s disease.

3. The element increases brain gene messenger RNA molecules similar to those that become multiplied with AD.

4. Out of the many AD drug treatments tested to date, the use of aluminum chelator is so far one of the most effective therapeutic solutions yet.

5. Adding aluminum to the diets of animals who have Alzheimer’s causes more brain changes that are associated with the progressive disease. These include deficits in gene expression, cell death, and oxidative stress.

6. Some studies show that people who drink water with too much Al are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

7. Aluminum tends to be the cause of similar cellular energy deficits that are related to AD. These include impaired signaling involving the use of energy and ATP.

A few factors bar further research into these findings

For starters, researchers claim that it is difficult to find funding when they want to pursue angles that deal with aluminum and Alzheimer’s.

This is because most people believe that this is just a myth that does not deserve too much research.

Additionally, experts also have a problem getting the research done “properly.” A researcher cannot test whether Al causes Alzheimer’s disease in humans directly.

This is because there is no ethical manner of giving humans huge doses of the element.

It means that scientists are left to rely on scientific investigative methods to determine the role of aluminum in the development or progression of AD.

One of the alternatives to this is animal studies:

1. The studies that counter this evidence usually support their claims by stating three important points.

Sufficient amounts of Bioavailable Al cannot enter the brain and cause damage.

2. Accumulation of aluminum in neurons is considered a consequence instead of a cause of neural loss, which is typical of AD.

3. Healthy kidneys efficiently excrete excess aluminum from the body.

Aluminum and Alzheimer’s Closing Thoughts

As seen above, there is still no persuasive or reliable evidence associating aluminum and Alzheimer’s.

Although some studies associate Alzheimer’s risk with aluminum, many state that there is no association between the two.

This may be because the study that triggered this entire debate was typically focused on a single animal (rabbit) that may be susceptible to aluminum poisoning.

Perhaps, if other types of animals are studied, the results will give us clearer answers.

It is, nonetheless, important to limit exposure to the element to be on the safe side based on the inconclusive findings on this topic.

Psychological Therapies For Dementia

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention June 19, 2021October 15, 2021psychological therapies

After putting it into practice ourselves, we would like to share all the useful information about psychological therapies for dementia.

The National Services Scotland defines psychological therapies as a range of interventions that are based on psychological theory and concepts.

These are designed to help individuals understand and make changes to their behavior, thinking, and relationships to enhance functioning and relieve distress.

Psychological Therapies/Talking Therapies For Dementia

Psychological therapies are also known as talking therapies.

According to the Alzheimer’s Society UK, the therapies are delivered by an expert like a clinical psychologist, counselor, psychotherapist, or psychiatrist.

Individuals can also get some kinds of talking therapies online or over the phone.

The approach of psychological therapies is normally exclusive to a specific individual in a bid to uncover the cause of a person’s problems and the best ways to manage the issues.

Experts agree that talking therapies can help people who are living with dementia.

This is ESPECIALLY TRUE for those who are experiencing the early to middle stages of dementia.

They may not be ideal for people who are in the latter stages of the progressive illness because they often have challenges with their communication, attention, memory, and understanding which are key for the success of the therapies.

When it comes to psychological therapies for dementia, professionals state that they can help affected persons speak about their feelings openly in a safe space.

This includes how they are feeling about their diagnosis and the changes happening in their lives.

It can help persons with dementia adjust well to the new changes and live successfully with dementia.

Psychological Therapies Are Beneficial

Evidence suggests that engaging in talking therapies over several weeks may reduce anxiety and depression in persons who have dementia.

Note that the psychological interventions don’t aim only at persons who are in emotional distress.

They also target at helping persons with dementia and their families adjust to the diagnosis.

A study conducted in America found SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS in depression and the quality of life after a 9-week intervention.

How are Psychological Therapies for Dementia Used?

The British Psychological Society acknowledges that psychological therapies normally take different forms and can be used to meet different needs under different contexts.

Psychological therapies in dementia are in practice formally or informally.

The structured or formal use of psychological therapies mostly focuses on talking about emotions, feelings, and ways of thinking.

This occurs REGULARLY within a certain contest that draws on a set of hypotheses about an individuals’ challenges that link practice and theory.

This aims to promote changes within the person or the system around them including changes with families and other relationships to enhance a person’s wellbeing.

4 Types of Psychological Therapies for Dementia

There are different kinds of talking therapies that a person with dementia can benefit from.

Some of the primary ones include:

Counseling

Counselling refers to a wide range of talking therapies that may include individual, couples, or group sessions.

It helps individuals get a better understanding of their problems and then come up with ways to manage them.

A professional counselor does not offer a person “answers.” Instead OFFERS guidance and gives time for the individual to look at their problems with the assistance of a professional.

Counseling sessions are important for helping a person cope with life events they find challenging.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is based on the fact that the way humans think affects how they feel and behave.

This can be useful for persons with early stages of dementia especially in regards to treating anxiety, depression, or stress.

Experts usually have the responsibility of adopting this type of therapy to meet the specific needs of the person with the progressive illness.

This is mainly to help them change thought patterns that lead to unproductive, incapacitating, and unhealthy behavior.

It might include scheduling shorter sessions with memory aids.

If the person with dementia is COMFORTABLE, they can attend sessions with a close relative or friend.

Psychotherapy

Physiotherapy helps people understand how their experiences, personality, and beliefs influence their behavior, feelings, thoughts, and relationships.

It can help a person change the way they behave and think.

Additionally, it can also help them deal with difficult situations and problems more successfully.

For persons with dementia, psychotherapy can help people with the illness feel less anxious and depressed.

It can help them COPE BETTER with the condition and maintain a good quality of life.

Humanistic Therapy

This is another example of psychological therapy for dementia. It is an approach that looks at how people’s worldview affects the choices they make particularly if the choices end up causing distress.

It mostly bases on the belief that an individual has in understanding their needs and experiences.

Therapists help people work towards living their most fulfilling lives by being their true selves.

The professionals do not direct the sessions but they actively listen to individuals and only step in when it is necessary.

This is great for addressing self-esteem issues, depression, difficulty coping with chronic health concerns, effects of trauma, substance use disorder, and feelings of being lost in life of worthless signs that people with dementia face.

Finding a Good Therapist

Keep in mind that all psychological therapies for dementia must be carried out by a trained professional.

The person with the illness should also feel comfortable with their therapist for the sessions to be a success.

Before settling for a therapist, there are a few things to look out for and these include:

The professional should have accreditation by a relevant professional body.
The expert must abide by a professional code of ethics.
The therapist needs to have regular supervision to ensure their practice is ethical and safe.
The professional must explain their fees, confidentiality, approach, responsibilities, and length of sessions before they start working.

We can find a therapist through referrals from relatives, friends, or general physicians.

It is wise to identify several professionals and interview them to find a great match.

Some of the questions to ask when choosing a therapist include:

If the professionals accept insurance
How much it will cost
Appointment hours
Areas of expertise and treatment approach
Experience
Whether they offer virtual appointments

Closing Remarks

As the dementia population continues to increase professionals are looking into developing more programs that help affected people, their relatives, friends, and caregivers deal with the effects of the illness.

One of the interventions that are showing promise has got to be psychological therapies for dementia.

It is crucial to talk about the interventions with an individual’s general doctor before choosing the ones to explore.

Keep in mind that different people may get different results from different therapies.

Driving and Dementia (All You Need To Know)

Rok Krivec Blog, Stages June 17, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, driving, driving and dementia

It is crucial for all of us to understand the close connection between driving and dementia and how to act accordingly to avoid inconvenience.

We experienced many UNPLEASANT situations, thus want to share this guide with you.

A positive dementia diagnosis usually comes with a myriad of concerns for the affected individual.

Among them include the ability of a person to drive safely.

How Does Dementia Affect Driving?

You will notice that many people who have dementia can no longer drive, especially if the disease has progressed to the later stages.

This can be very upsetting, particularly to the persons who feel like driving defines freedom and autonomy.

In addition to memory loss that is synonymous with dementia, other causes can also affect a person’s driving ability.

These include medical conditions that a person with dementia might be suffering from. The most common in seniors are hearing and vision problems.

Arthritis can also affect head-turning.

A fraction of older people with dementia have weaker muscles, which makes physical tasks like braking or steering rather difficult.

Medications, a person is taking, can also contribute to driving problems. Various depression drugs, as well as night sedatives, may affect how a person drives.

Individuals with dementia and their caregivers can benefit from our guidelines that can offer helpful pointers on the whole driving and dementia issue.

Read on to uncover important information about driving for people with dementia.

When Does a Person Become a Traffic Risk?

In some cases, though not all, a dementia diagnosis does not mean that a person immediately loses their driving skills.

Some people, particularly in the early stages of the disease, can go about their driving business without any complications.

However, due to the nature of the illness, everyone HAS TO STOP driving eventually.

This is because the disease becomes worse over time, which means that symptoms like a decrease in cognitive functioning, memory loss, and visual-spatial disorientation become more pronounced.

Some individuals will stop driving voluntarily after identifying the risks involved. Others may need intervention from relatives and caregivers.

Because everyone experiences the illness differently, it is not easy to pinpoint the right time a person should no longer be on the road as a driver.

As a general rule, persons with mild or early dementia should undergo an evaluation to know if they can continue driving.

Those who have moderate or severe dementia SHOULD keep off the wheel.

It may also help if the affected individuals and those around them are keen on the developing symptoms to make the decision at the right time.

Going For Independent Driving Evaluation

Independent driving evaluations are some of the safest options to determine a person’s driving capability.

These are usually available through State Departments of Motor Vehicles or driver rehabilitation programs.

Remember to inform the examiners that the individual going through evaluation has dementia. These individuals usually sit for a behind-the-wheel driver re-examination.

This will determine whether the candidate will RETAIN their driving license or whether it will be revoked.

Because dementia is a progressive disease, it is recommended that drivers with dementia go through the evaluation often say after every six months or so.

If anyone FAILS the test, they must discontinue driving instantly.

Signs That Indicate It Is No Longer Safe to Drive

A person’s behavior outside their car can tell if they can drive properly or not.

Some of the signs that a person may show signifying that they will not be good drivers include:

Has a hard time multitasking
Has a problem judging space and distance
Becomes less coordinated
Feels disoriented or gets lost in familiar environments
Is not as alert to things that are happening around them
Memory loss specifically for recent events increases
Has a hard time processing information
Has challenges with problem-solving and decision-making
Becomes more irritable, confused, and has mood swings
Needs prompting when it comes to personal care, etc.

It is advisable to compare previous behavior (before dementia onset) to current behavior to get an accurate picture of the transformation a person is going through.

Behavioral changes are usually noticeable to people who closely interact with the person with dementia over time.

The observations can then be shared with other friends, family members, and health care professionals.

Checking Driving Behaviors

If the person with dementia gets the green light to continue driving, friends and family must continue to monitor their driving.

An individual’s driving skills can decrease in a short period. Observing driving conduct is crucial because it allows early problem detection before it becomes a crisis.

Some of the warning signs may consist of:

Ignoring traffic lights or confusion over road rules, colors, and words
Driving too slowly
Hitting curbs
Stopping in the middle of the road for no reason
Having challenges with highway exits, turns, or lane changes
Lacking good judgment
Driving at inappropriate speeds
Getting lost on familiar routes
Driving on the wrong streets
Drifting into other lanes unintentionally
Getting drowsy or falling asleep while driving
Confusing gas and brake pedals
Refusing to strap on seat belts
Parking at the wrong places
Coming back from routines drives later than usual
Getting tickets often for multiple violations
Having accidents or too many “near-misses”
Easily distractibility by road signs, pedestrians, or pets they may see while driving
Refusing to drive with other people in the car
Becomes irritated or nervous when driving, etc.

What To Do To Improve Driving Skills

Unfortunately, because of the declining nature of dementia, there is nothing that can be done to enhance driving skills.

As the disease becomes worse, many people become a hazard on the road. This implies that caregivers and doctors must take charge.

The affected individuals, doctors, and persons offering care must also familiarize themselves with the laws that govern driving and dementia.

In some locations, doctors must report any medical conditions that may get in the way of a person’s driving ability.

Getting “Difficult Persons” To Stop Driving

Blood relatives and caregivers may, at times, be faced with a situation where an individual with dementia blatantly refuses to stop driving even when it is dangerous.

This is because most of them feel as though they lose a great deal of independence if they cannot drive themselves around.

Such circumstances call for a lot of wisdom when dealing with this aspect of driving and dementia.

The persons dealing with the topic can start by calmly and sympathetically talking to the affected individual, letting them know why driving is not a good idea.

Remember that the talks should be given out in small doses to give the affected individual time to process what lays ahead.

Be ready to listen and encourage the person to talk freely about how the changes make them feel.

Mention the positives, not the negatives

Stressing about the positives of quitting driving might drive the point home.

Try and appeal to the individual’s sense of responsibility all the time, reaffirming support and unconditional love.

Alternative transportation must also be offered so that the ill individual does not feel like they will not have the freedom of movement anymore.

If the people around cannot come up with a solution, it may be time to join a support group.

These offer a GREAT platform for caregivers and persons with dementia to talk to other individuals who are in a similar situation.

Seek help if necessary

They act as an excellent resource center to get tips on how to get the person to stop driving.

Experts believe that people will adjust better if they are involved in the discussions and decisions on when they should retire when it comes to driving.

Care managers and physicians might also help a person make the right timely decision. The professionals can tactfully bring up the driving topic during health visits.

A financial planner or lawyer may also step in to DISCUSS driving as part of the ill person’s financial and legal planning.

Affected persons may respond better to the experts as compared to their relatives or friends.

It can also help if family members and caregivers can come up with ways that reduce the need of the person with dementia to drive all the time.

It can be things like having prescriptions, groceries, and meals delivered at home.

Beauticians and barbers can be contracted to make home visits. Loved ones can visit often so that the person does not feel the need to go out and look for them.

Friends and family can also organize to take the person on social outings.

Slowly limit their driving

Where possible, it is usually best to start early rather than bombard a person to stop driving immediately.

For instance, during the onset of the middle stages of the disease, caregivers can work with an individual to introduce the concept of limiting their driving.

During these times, there are a few beneficial tips the dementia drivers can work with like:

Avoiding driving in bad weather and at night
Driving on familiar roads only
Avoiding long-distance drives
Escaping roads that have huge traffic amounts

Asking the person to co-pilot might also make the transition from driver to passenger a little easier.

When all else fails, caregivers may be forced to take drastic measures to ensure that the individual who has dementia does not go driving when they are not supposed to.

Some of the methods that can keep weak people from accessing their cars include:

Hiding car keys or replacing them with a set that will not start the car
Ensuring the car is out of sight
Disabling the car by removing the battery cable so that it will not start. A mechanic can also install a “kill switch” that the driver must engage in before starting the car.
Selling the vehicle

Alternate Transport Solutions

When tackling the topic of driving and dementia, it is important to table alternative transport options for individuals who can no longer drive.

These help individuals to continue living active lives with minimal restrictions on their mobility. Common transport options are:

Public Transportation

This comes in handy, especially in the early stages of the disease. This is where a person can get familiar with the transportation system in their area so that they get by without too many problems.

The option may not work for people who are in the last stages of the disease. This is because they may not be in a position to figure out how to get to the trains or buses or even their schedules and routes.

Senior Transportation Services

Some organizations offer exclusive transportation services for people who have special needs. A quick online search can help you identify some of the companies that extend these services.

Compare a few to settle on the ones you feel will meet the transport needs of the person with dementia.

Taxi

Just like public transportation, this may be a solution for people who are in the middle or early stages of the disease and preferably do not have any extreme behavioral issues.

Families can choose to set a payment account with a specific company so that the affected individual does not have to deal with taxi bills.

It is also a good option if someone accompanies the person with dementia to the taxi and has another person waiting for them at the destination.

Friends and Family

Family members, neighbors, and friends can offer to drive the person to their appointments and social engagements.

To avoid overburdening one person, make a list of the people willing to provide transportation alongside their contacts and availability.

Driving and Dementia Closing Thoughts

Car accidents are the leading cause of death-related injuries in persons between ages 65-74, according to various studies.

They are also the 2nd commonest cause of death for people who are above the age of 85 after falls.

Experts reveal that the risk of getting into an auto accident doubles for persons who have dementia.

It is, therefore, important to do due diligence when caring for a person with the illness so that they do not go out there driving putting their lives and those of other road users in danger.

Always keep in mind that driving ability spans many cognitive domains, and requires executive function, visuospatial skills, motor skills, attention, and memory.

Social Isolation and Dementia

Petra Boh Blog, Signs June 15, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, social isolation

We are looking at the connection between social isolation and dementia risk for many years.

Social isolation especially in seniors is considered one of the public health risks that affect many people.

It puts them at RISK for dementia and other severe medical conditions.

The NASEM (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine) released a report stating that almost a fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered socially isolated.

Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked to Dementia

Many elderly people are at an increased risk of social isolation because of various factors like:

Living alone
Loss of family and friends
Hearing loss
Chronic illness
Lack of interests in social activities they once enjoyed

Studies Looking into Social Isolation and Dementia Risk

Several studies have shown that there is a connection between increased dementia risk and social isolation.

An example of this was a behavioral rodent study that was conducted in Belgium.

The research team discovered that mice that were in isolation for four weeks during adolescence ended up with a specific dementia-like phenotype.

It compromised both cognitive and non-cognitive domains when compared to the animals that were socially housed.

The mice also displayed a lifelong impairment in a memory task.

A cohort study on the “Association of social isolation, loneliness, and genetic risk with the incidence of dementia: UK Biobank” also concluded that socially isolated persons are at risk of dementia at all levels of genetic risk.

This was after observing 144,074 men and women with a mean age of 64.1 from the UK Biobank study.

The participants were recruited between 2006-2010.

8.6% of the participants reported that they were socially isolated. During a follow-up, 0.9% of the participants were diagnosed with dementia.

Social isolation was the MAIN culprit associated with increased dementia risk.

Loniless biggest risk for Alzheimer’s?

On the flip side, a new study from the Netherlands reported that “feeling lonely” and not “being alone” might be considered a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. One of the most common causes of dementia.

This study was published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry. For the study, researchers observed 2,173 seniors aged between 65-86.

At the beginning of the study, none of the participants had dementia.

The professionals assessed the participants’ degree of isolation including whether they lived alone or lacked a partner, spouse, or network of friends alongside how lonely they reported they felt.

About half of the participants lived alone, and 1 in 5 reported feeling lonely.

The participants also underwent thinking and memory tests to look for signs of severe memory loss and incipient AD (Alzheimer’s disease).

After controlling factors like concurrent medical issues like cardiovascular disease or depression and socioeconomic status, researchers found that the participants who felt lonely were more likely to develop dementia.

The ones who were socially ISOLATED but did not feel lonely were not at increased risk of developing dementia.

The researchers stated that there needs to be a better understanding of why individuals feel lonely as this may help them identify vulnerable persons to come up with interventions that will IMPROVE the outcome in seniors who are at risk of dementia.

Can Social Activity Buffer Against Decline?

When discussing social isolation and dementia risk, we find it important to pinpoint some of the things that can help reduce the risk.

For one, MAINTAINING HIGH-QUALITY relationships is key to protecting brain health from the negative effects of isolation.

Studies show that seniors who feel more satisfied with their relationships have a 23% lower dementia risk.

Older adults who feel that their relationships are supportive have a 55% lower risk of developing dementia compared to the ones who feel unsupported or dissatisfied in their relationships.

Maintaining social activities can also buffer against the decline in thinking abilities even for people who live alone or are experiencing signs of beta-amyloid accumulation in the brain.

One of the reasons this happens is that if a person is cultivating and maintaining strong social ties, it can help them cope better with stress.

Individuals who feel better able to cope with challenges or bounce back after stressful events normally show less tau protein build-up in the brain.

What Action can a Person Experiencing Social Isolation Take?

When experiencing social isolation, an individual should consult a doctor.
The physician can assess an individual’s risk of social isolation and if needed connect the affected individual to community resources for assistance.

National Organizations like Area Agencies on Aging, National Council on Aging, Eldercare Locator, and AARP can also be helpful.

Other strategies that may help fight social isolation include:

1. Friends

Reaching out to friends and family even if it is just a phone call or text.

Dr. Miller states that making contact with someone can improve well-being and it should be part of an individual’s daily routine.

2. Joining a club

Affected individuals should look for clubs that interest them such as book clubs, collectors’ clubs, or jazz clubs, etc.

Volunteering at an organization they support can also help.

3. Adopting a pet

Persons who can mentally and physically care for pets should get them as they make wonderful companions who offer numerous physical and emotional benefits.

Closing Thoughts

Human beings are generally social in nature and high-quality social relationships can help people live healthier and longer lives.

There is growing evidence that there is a link between social isolation and dementia risk.

While more studies need to be conducted on this subject, it is something that people need to take seriously in a bid to reduce the number of people who end up developing dementia in old age.

Bonus: What is Social Isolation

Social isolation is the lack of social connection. We can also describe it as an objective measure of solitude that may or may not be distressing.

Although it is not easy to precisely measure social isolation, there is evidence that older adults who are isolated socially put their health at risk.

In line with this, some recent studies uncovered that:

Social isolation was associated with almost 50% increase in developing dementia.
Social isolation increases a person’s risk of premature death from all causes significantly. This is a risk that may rival those of obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking.
Poor social relationships characterized by social isolation were linked to increased link in heart disease and stroke (29% and 32% respectively).
Seniors who are socially isolated record increased emergency room and physician visits.

Social isolation among older adults also leads to poor performances on tests of thinking abilities. Especially in situations when an individual is required to process information fast.

Alcohol Dementia (Symptoms & Treatments)

Rok Krivec Blog, Types June 14, 2021October 15, 2021alcohol dementia, dementia, dementia symptoms, dementia treatment, symptoms

We are observing the negative effects and health problems of alcohol daily, including alcohol dementia.

This is a health condition that leads to SEVERE cognitive issues as well as improper neurological functioning.

Alcohol-Related Dementia

It is one of the detrimental effects of alcohol on the human body that not many people are aware of.

The illness can affect any person at any age more so the ones who are into consuming LARGE quantities of alcohol over a short period.

It is unlike other dementia types that normally affect the elderly.

This kind of intoxication deprives the body of important nutrients causing brain damage as well as harmful effects to major organs in the body. Including pancreas, liver, kidneys, and many more.

Note that alcohol has a direct negative effect on brain cells.

This results in a lack of insight, poor judgment, and difficulties making proper decisions. To some extent, alcohol-induced dementia is similar to Alzheimer’s disease.

They both affect COGNITIVE and MEMORY abilities.

Symptoms of Alcohol Dementia

Alcohol-related dementia is influenced by two important factors:

Korsakoff syndrome

This is a condition that translates through frequent episodes of confusion, depression, memory issues, and inability to speak among others.

Dementia and alcohol are related in this case because excessive alcohol consumption prevents normal neurological functioning.

This leads to the development of dementia in people who abuse alcohol.

Wernicke’s encephalopathy

This occurs when an individual does not have a vitamin known as thiamine in their body.

Over-the-top drinking and vomiting normally cause this.

Drinking too much alcohol regularly results in thiamine deficiency.

Experts reckon that alcoholics typically develop Wernicke’s encephalopathy first, which then causes Korsakoff syndrome.

Ultimately, the SEVERE MEMORY ISSUES that are associated with Korsakoff syndrome will result in dementia that is caused by alcoholism.

Check out some of the most common symptoms that people who have dementia caused by alcoholism showcase.

Confusion

This is one of the most common symptoms of this kind of dementia. People with the illness appear not to be in a position to think clearly.

Many feel disoriented and have a tough time making decisions or focusing.

Confusion normally makes a person experience sudden emotional changes like being agitated out of the blues.

An individual may also have incoherent speech and lack awareness of time or location.

Repetition

A high percentage of individuals who have this illness will find themselves telling the same story over and over again without even realizing it.

In line with this, some will also ask the same question repeatedly because THEY HAVE NO recollection of the queries that have just been asked or answered.

When having a conversation with such individuals, do not be shocked if they keep repeating the same information over ten times.

Impulsivity problems

A person who has alcohol dementia may start to be reckless with their finances.

This is where an individual may get into a habit of making rash financial decisions purchasing items they do not need.

They may also become too generous with their money giving it out aimlessly.

Such people usually have a DIFFICULT time CONTROLLING EMOTIONS. One minute they may be the happiest beings on earth and the next they start crying.

Inability to perform motor tasks

You may notice that a person who has alcohol-related dementia has challenges performing both simple and complex motor tasks.

These can include walking, running, getting dressed, or getting up and down a flight of stairs.

Heavy alcohol abusers also experience damage to nerves in their legs and arms.

These people normally have issues with sensation, and they might also demonstrate unsteadiness on their feet.

An array of psychiatric problems

Dementia that relates to alcohol is also known to produce various psychiatric issues. These can include disconnect from reality (psychosis), anxiety, depression, and changes in personality.

Some may also develop apathy which can be MISTAKEN for depression.

Impaired ability to learn new things

It can become very difficult for a person who has this type of dementia to start learning new things. This is because damage to the brain affects its comprehending and processing ability.

Other symptoms may include but are not limited to frequent headaches, anger episodes, slurred speech, mood swings, decreased spontaneity and initiative, and memory gaps.

Oddly, persons who have alcohol-related dementia may seem to be in total control of their faculties drawing correct deductions, playing games that require mental skills like cards or chess, and making witty remarks, etc.

Before concluding that a person has alcohol-related dementia, you must seek the services of a professional or doctor.

Because of the symptoms that the illness has, it becomes difficult to tell right away that dementia has been caused by alcohol abuse.

Doctors, however, can conduct several proper tests to come up with the right diagnosis.

The professionals will also be in a position to advise on how to combat the illness in the right way, depending on the individual.

Treatment for Alcohol Dementia

It is advisable to start treating alcohol-related dementia as fast as possible.

If we detect this dementia early enough, it means that the damage to the nerves and brain will not be excessive.

While the treatment process can be quite stressful for candidates with alcohol-induced dementia, it is necessary, if a person wants to PREVENT further health problems or death.

Studies show that women have more success reversing the effects of alcohol-related dementia than men.

Both genders, nonetheless, require support from their friends and family while undergoing treatment.

There are several treatment options that a person who has this dementia type can explore such as:

Quitting Alcohol

To cure this type of dementia, a person simply needs to quit drinking alcohol. When a person stops taking alcohol, it prevents further damage to nerves and brain function.

People with the illness can also show improvement by improving diet and exercising.

Alcoholism Treatment

Quitting consumption of alcohol may not be the easiest thing to do. Doctors may put the person with dementia on alcoholism treatment when the situation is dire.

This typically consists of multiple IV infusions and therapies that attempt to replenish the vital nutrients the body has lost.

Most people will have to stay in a clinic or hospital for a certain period so that they can be monitored closely during the treatment.

Some who have the willing power may, however, go through alcoholism treatment successfully at home.

Others may even need a rehabilitation center to stay “clean.” This is because, during the treatment, a person MUST NOT touch even a single drop of alcohol.

It is usually a difficult moment because an alcoholic at this point has been used to the toxic substance to an extent that their bodies crave it and most feel like they cannot survive without a drink.

In such cases, alcoholism support groups can be helpful.

Thiamine Therapy

Thiamine therapy also helps with the treatment of dementia from the abuse of alcohol. This provides the body with the much-needed B1 or thiamine vitamin.

This vitamin is crucial in the body because it helps the brain cells convert sugar into energy.

When there is thiamine deficiency, it means that the brain cells will not have enough energy to function well.

The treatment comes highly recommended because it enhances the neurological functioning of people with alcohol-related dementia.

Additionally, it can also PREVENT this type of dementia FROM PROGRESSING to more dangerous stages.

Counseling

It is important to incorporate counseling as part of treating dementia caused by alcoholism. This is where the affected person gets a chance to talk to professional therapists.

It can help identify the root cause of the problem to eliminate it. After dealing with what causes a person to OVERINDULGE in alcohol, the chances of relapsing become slimmer.

Persons who have alcohol dementia may also benefit from services that memory clinics offer.

It is, therefore, wise to seek referrals from your doctor to point you in the direction of a good clinic.

You can also consider addiction programs that have been successful in helping people abstain from alcohol for the rest of their lives.

If the person who has dementia is living in a retirement community, remember to communicate this to the caregivers early enough. This is because not all communities may be aware of the health condition.

Some may not even have the proper resources to extend beneficial care.

If you find yourself in such a situation, continue searching until you can identify the community that will be the right fit.

Alcohol Dementia Final Remarks

To clarify things, alcohol dementia mostly affects people who drink EXCESSIVELY.

It is very rare for a person who gets tipsy once a week by having a few wine or beer glasses to develop the illness.

Individuals who are at risk are the ones who frequently intoxicate themselves with alcohol and suffer from hangover symptoms almost every day.

These are the people who are always feeling dizzy and vomit all the time.

Not treating the disease early enough can make it an incurable health condition.

Nonetheless, administering proper treatment on time gives alcoholics a chance to lead a happy, alcohol-free life.