Understanding Dementia: When Forgetfulness Becomes More Than Forgetfulness
By: Dizindaba Staff Reporter | South Africa
Dementia is not simply a normal part of getting older. It is a general term used to describe a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, behaviour and a person’s ability to manage everyday activities.
One of the most common causes of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are several other types of dementia. Symptoms can develop gradually and may initially be mistaken for ordinary forgetfulness.
A person living with dementia may repeatedly ask the same questions, forget familiar names or places, struggle to manage money or medication, become confused about time and surroundings, experience changes in mood or personality, or have difficulty carrying out tasks they previously managed easily.
It is important not to ignore significant changes in memory or behaviour. Not every memory problem is dementia, and some conditions or medications can cause symptoms that may be treatable. A medical assessment can help determine what is happening. ADASA notes that assessment may involve a medical history, cognitive assessment, blood tests and, where appropriate, scans and referral to specialists such as neurologists or psychiatrists. (Adasa)
Dementia affects the whole family
Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be frightening and overwhelming. Families may struggle to understand the condition, while caregivers can experience exhaustion, stress and uncertainty about how to provide the right care.
This is why families should not try to manage dementia alone.
Support can include medical care, counselling, caregiver training, support groups, practical advice and assistance with planning for the future. Organisations working in the dementia field can also help families understand behavioural changes, home-based care, respite care and available community resources. (Adasa)
Where can South Africans get help?
DementiaSA
DementiaSA provides support, education, counselling, training and resources for people living with dementia, families and caregivers. Its national helpline operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
National Helpline: 0860 636 679 (0860 MEMORY)
Email: info@dementiasa.org
DementiaSA also offers virtual support groups for families and caregivers. (DementiaSA)
Association for Dementia and Alzheimer’s of South Africa (ADASA)
ADASA provides psychosocial support, counselling, caregiver education, support groups and referrals to appropriate health professionals and services. It has regional support across South Africa.
National Helpline: 0860 102 681
National Office: 011 792 2511
(Adasa)
ADASA – Association for Dementia and Alzheimer’s of South Africa
For families in the Western Cape, ADASA can provide information about doctors with an interest in dementia, support groups, home care, daycare, respite care and care facilities. (Adasa)
Start with your local clinic or doctor
If you are concerned about an elderly parent, spouse, relative or friend, the first step can be to speak to a doctor or visit your local public healthcare clinic. In the Western Cape, primary healthcare clinics provide assessment, treatment, counselling and referrals to specialised services where necessary. (Western Cape Government)
Remember: the person is still the person
Perhaps one of the most important things families can remember is that a diagnosis of dementia does not take away a person’s dignity, history or humanity.
Behind the diagnosis is a mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, spouse, friend or neighbour—a person with memories, relationships and a lifetime of experiences.
Patience, respect and understanding matter.
If you notice worrying changes in someone’s memory, behaviour or ability to cope with everyday life, don’t wait until the situation becomes a crisis. Ask for help, seek an assessment and remember that caregivers need support too.
Dementia is a medical condition and this article is intended for general information. Anyone experiencing significant changes in memory, thinking or behaviour should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
