TODAY (SEPTEMBER 21) IS WORLD ALZHEIMER’S DAY
Forgetfulness is not always a sign of dementia – but when memory problems begin to interfere with everyday life, it is time to investigate. Acting early can make an important difference to the future.
That is the advice of Debbie Beech, a trained social worker who has worked in the dementia field since 2017. Debbie, who previously served as regional manager for Alzheimer’s Gauteng, is now the manager of Rand Aid Association’s Elphin Lodge retirement village.
“Dementia is not normal ageing,” she says. “An early diagnosis is always recommended so that decisions can be made in advance while the person is still able to.”
These decisions can include future care requirements, putting financial affairs in order and making memories while the person is still able to participate fully. Most importantly, the person living with dementia should be involved in decisions about their future care for as long as they can make those decisions.
Debbie advises people who suspect dementia in themselves or a loved one to educate themselves about the condition and build a strong support network involving medical professionals, family and friends.
“Dementia affects everyone uniquely. What works for one person will not necessarily work for another,” she says.
She also stresses that a diagnosis does not define a person. Loved ones should remain involved in family and society and be supported to retain their independence safely for as long as possible.
When is forgetfulness a concern?
Forgetting certain details of the day is a normal part of ageing. The brain constantly filters information, and older people may also take longer to process information and respond.
Debbie says one useful consideration is whether a person can remember what they initially forgot.
“If you walk into the kitchen and forget why, but remember when you retrace your steps, that is normal,” she explains.
Memory can also be affected by stress, medication, vitamin deficiencies, emotional well-being, and poor sleep.
However, when forgetfulness starts affecting daily functioning, there may be an underlying condition that needs investigation.
Families need care too
Caring for someone with dementia can place a considerable emotional and physical burden on family members. Debbie says caregivers must make their own well-being a priority rather than putting their lives on hold.
“It is easy to have your entire life revolve around the person being cared for. This leads to burnout,” she says.
Regular breaks are essential. If possible, another family member or a paid carer can provide cover, allowing the caregiver to have genuine time for themselves. Running errands or doing the shopping does not count as a break, Debbie says – caregivers need time to recharge.
Support groups can also help caregivers realise they are not alone.
Keep the connection alive
As dementia progresses, spending quality time together remains important, even when communication and memory become more difficult.
Debbie recommends keeping conversations calm, using short and simple sentences and speaking slowly because the brain processes information more slowly.
While a person’s memory may be impaired, their emotions are not. “Do things that your loved one has always enjoyed and that evoke positive emotions,” she says.
This could include listening to favourite music or cooking and baking together, under supervision where necessary.
When home care becomes too much
Deciding when someone needs additional or full-time care is deeply personal and emotional.
Debbie says one indication is when a person’s behaviour becomes more than the family can safely manage, particularly if they become aggressive, act out or are abusive. This may indicate that a more structured environment is needed.
Caregiver burnout is another important warning sign. “When the carer is burnt out, it is time to consider care alternatives, as the loved one is at risk of neglect and abuse,” she says.
Seeking additional care is not a failure. It can be an important step towards protecting both the person living with dementia and the person caring for them.
Reducing the risk
There is no single way to prevent dementia, but Debbie says reducing risk starts earlier in life with a healthy lifestyle. “What is good for your heart is good for your head,” she says.
A healthy diet, regular exercise, sufficient sleep and reducing stress can all contribute to brain health. Meaningful activities, social connections and keeping the brain active are also important.
Support is available
Caring for someone living with dementia can feel challenging and isolating, but families do not have to face the journey alone.
Lorna Quinn’s support group for caregivers and family members meets on the second Saturday of every month at the Elphin Lodge clubhouse (222 Modderfontein Road, Edenvale), from 09:30 to 10:30. The meeting is followed by refreshments and an opportunity for informal connection.
For more information, contact Lorna on 082 456 5692.
* Rand Aid provides specialised memory care at Ron Smith Care Centre and Thembalami Care Centre, supporting people living with dementia and their families.
