Jeannette analyzes… How do Alzheimer’s patients perceive their illness?

Jeannette analyzes… How do Alzheimer's's patients perceive their illness?

Right now, we often focus on the caregivers and their real difficulties in supporting a loved one through Alzheimer's's disease.

But today, I want to take the other side and talk about the patient:

how do they perceive their illness, are they aware of it? Is it hard to talk about it?

We sometimes think that Alzheimer's's patients have little awareness of their situation, not necessarily realizing the extent and disability that their illness represents. However, it is quite the opposite for a large majority of them.

Indeed, I found this figure in the press: 80% of Alzheimer's's patients are aware of the difficulties related to their illness. But out of embarrassment or fear of causing suffering, patients do not talk about it with those around them.

A survey conducted by France Alzheimer's has for the first time given a voice to the patients themselves. It reveals that a large majority of people affected by Alzheimer's's disease are aware of the difficulties related to their illness. 80% of respondents acknowledge that certain daily activities, such as dressing, eating, and driving, have become difficult for them.

Only 22% of respondents feel "no longer like the same person".

Being aware is one thing, but being able to talk about it is another!

According to the same study, 66% of the patients surveyed say they talk about it "as little as possible" or even "never".

This is because they do not want to "bother, distress" or "cause suffering" to their loved ones, or it is the fear of being judged that keeps them silent. Nearly one in two patients also says they are afraid of overburdening their loved ones.

However, loved ones are still very much present. Indeed, despite these fears, nearly 75% of respondents feel "well surrounded and supported by their family", a figure that confirms the role of loved ones in the daily lives of Alzheimer's's patients and the importance of "helping the caregivers".

I believe it is important to talk about it to understand the patients as much as possible in order to support them effectively in their daily lives.

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Communication strategies with Alzheimer's's patients

Communicating with a person affected by Alzheimer's's disease can be complex. It is essential to adapt one's approach to facilitate exchanges. Here are some effective strategies:

• Use simple and clear language.
• Ask closed questions to avoid confusion.
• Maintain eye contact and adopt a calming tone.
• Avoid distractions during the conversation.
• Be patient and give the necessary time to respond.

These techniques can help create a more serene and understanding communication environment.

Beneficial activities for Alzheimer's's patients

Engaging Alzheimer's's patients in stimulating activities can improve their overall well-being. Here are some recommended activities:

• Music: listening to or playing music can revive memories and create moments of joy.
• Art: painting, drawing, or crafting stimulates creativity and personal expression.
• Board games: simple games promote social interaction and cognitive stimulation.
• Walks: spending time outdoors helps maintain good physical and mental health.
• Memory activities: tailored memory exercises can help maintain cognitive abilities.

These activities, adapted to each individual's capabilities, can contribute to improving the quality of life of patients.

The role of caregivers in supporting Alzheimer's's patients

Caregivers play a crucial role in supporting people affected by Alzheimer's's disease. Their presence and commitment can make a significant difference. Here are some aspects of their role:

• Providing emotional support: listening to and understanding patients' concerns.
• Encouraging autonomy: helping patients perform daily tasks while preserving their independence.
• Informing and educating: learning about the disease to better understand the needs and challenges faced.
• Taking care of oneself: caregivers must also look after their well-being to avoid burnout.
• Participating in support groups: exchanging with other caregivers can provide comfort and advice.

The support of caregivers is essential to improve the quality of life of patients and facilitate their daily lives.

Scientific advances on Alzheimer's's disease

Research on Alzheimer's's disease is progressing rapidly, offering new perspectives on understanding and treating this illness. Here are some recent advances:

• Identification of biomarkers: blood tests and imaging allow for early detection of the disease.
• Targeted therapies: new medications aim to slow the progression of the disease by targeting amyloid plaques.
• Lifestyle research: studies show that physical exercise, a healthy diet, and cognitive activities can reduce the risk of developing the disease.
• Clinical trials: several ongoing trials are exploring new therapeutic approaches and combinations of treatments.
• Importance of early detection: early management can improve outcomes for patients and their families.

These advances offer hope for Alzheimer's's patients and their loved ones, paving the way for new treatment and support options.