Having the conversation about Alzheimer’s

Needing to have a talk about Alzheimer's disease or memory loss with a parent can be a daunting task for many adult children. For seniors, the idea of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease can trigger fear, anxiety, or even grief. It’s no wonder some adult children put the conversation off, once they see the initial signs in their loved one.

What’s more, if the afflicted senior already has impaired judgment or memory loss from the disease, it may already be too late for a rational, cohesive conversation about it. In any case, it’s wise to approach the topic with great sensitivity and care.

Symptoms related to the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, such as memory loss, confusion, mood swings, changes in personality, difficulty completing certain tasks or finding the correct word could also be caused by a number of other medical or psychiatric problems. Mentioning that a loved one’s symptoms could be the result of another underlying issue may make him or her more willing to visit the doctor for a full examination and a proper diagnosis.

Family caregivers may want to consider offering to go to the doctor with a loved one as part of a morning or afternoon outing, such as going to lunch, shopping, or some other activity. An enjoyable event could take the sting out of having to visit the doctor for a firm diagnosis.

Once Alzheimer’s has been diagnosed

How family caregivers approach a loved one to talk about an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can depend on the relationship with him or her. Is the caregiver close enough to have a frank conversation, and will the senior readily welcome suggestions and help? Or does he or she tend to keep things private, and could become embarrassed or self-conscious? Will he or she feel insulted? However family caregivers approach their loved one, it is imperative for him or her to feel supported and encouraged during this difficult time.

Researchers have found that families who don't discuss the disease with their loved one may witness increased fear and paranoia. Instead, it is better to be open about it, while reassuring a loved one that it is a fairly common brain illness. Caregivers should tell him or her that there is nothing that could have been done to prevent it, but there are things that can help slow the disease and they will do their best to help.

Also, allay any fear of abandonment. While it’s scary to think of losing memory and forgetting the family, it is even more frightening to think that the family will forget them. A loved one’s anxiety should be eased by telling him or her that no matter what happens, the family will get through it together.

Discussing the diagnosis

Hearing about an Alzheimer’s diagnosis from one's child can be hard to take, but chances are a loved one already knows that something is going on long before a doctor reaches a diagnosis — and he or she has the right to know what is happening. Here are some suggestions on how to discuss the disease:

• Informing a loved one may enable him or her to participate in making important medical, legal, financial, long-term care, and end-of-life decisions. How involved he or she is will depend on the current state of the disease symptoms.

• He or she may not be able to totally understand the diagnosis, or may deny it. If so, accept this reaction for now, and avoid further detailed explanations of the disease until later.

• A caregiver may choose to disclose the diagnosis at a family meeting attended by the loved one, other family members, a trusted friend, or even a member of the clergy or a social worker. A caregiver may also want to invite a healthcare professional who works with those who are cognitively impaired.

• Write up some simple answers to a loved one's questions, or encourage them to speak with his or her doctor about concerns.

• Let them know ongoing help and support will be provided, and do whatever is possible to improve their quality of life.

• Treat the person as an adult, and don't downplay the disease. As the dementia progresses, remain open to the person's need to talk about their illness and its implications — such as their ability to work, drive, and manage finances.

• Allow him or her to express his or her feelings, which may include anger, frustration, and disappointment. Be aware of non-verbal signs of sadness, anger or anxiety, and respond with love and reassurance.

• Watch for signs of clinical depression, which could result from being told that Alzheimer’s is a terminal illness, and consult with a physician if needed.

• Find community support services. Support groups for those in the early stages of the disease can be helpful in expressing emotions and concerns.

Comfort Keepers® can help with compassionate in-home caregivers who are specially trained to work with a family member who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Call 603-536-6060 or visit www.comfortkeepers.com/plymouthnh for more information.