The Many Losses of Alzheimer’s Chantel Bishop RN Sharing the Knowledge in Hospice Palliative Care October 22 nd, 2011

A little bit about myself

What I hope you will learn from today’s presentation…… An understanding of dementia and how it affects brain function. The “Silent Epidemic” it is The particular losses individuals and their families experience with dementia

What is Dementia? Umbrella term – decline in multiple cognitive functions Usually gradual onset but progressive Generally not reversible Causes damage to different areas of the brain

Types of Dementia Over 70 different types Alzheimer’s Disease most common

The Silent Epidemic Canadian numbers.... ~ have Alzheimer’s or other dementia (ADOD) < 65 living with dementia 1 in 11 > 65 have ADOD 2008 – new cases of dementia (1 new case every 5 minutes) – projected to be (1 new case every 2 minutes) Rising Tide: The Impact of Dementia on Canadian Society

Alzheimer’s & The Brain

The 7 A’s of Dementia –Useful tool to categorize and explain losses of dementia. –How dementia affects the brain –Each A will represent damage to a particular area of the brain –Not likely to experience all of them

#1 - Anosognosia No knowledge of illness or disease Lives in present but with past memories. Lack of insight. Often behaviour and safety concerns.

#2 - Amnesia Loss of memory Short and long term Memory loss is in reverse order – like peeling an onion Their reality is not ours.

#3 - Aphasia Loss of language Expressive aphasia o Unable to express self Receptive Aphasia o  Understanding of what is said Non-verbal communication usually very much intact.

#4 - Agnosia Loss of Recognition o people, objects, sounds Perceived but not recognized – disconnect between senses and memory Can lead to altered behaviors and interactions.

#5 – Apraxia Loss of purposeful movement – even though physically able and desire to do so. Results from impaired motor planning and sequencing.

#6 - Altered Perception Altered depth perception Visual distortions. Altered tactile perception.

#7 - Apathy Loss of initiation. Often interpreted as a sign of depression Involves frontal lobes and limbic system.

Other common losses Having to retire from work Managing finances Transition from independent living to care And one of the most difficult losses – driving!

Driving

Family and loved ones They experience loss too. While the loved one is still alive. Physically present but not psychologically. Loss of shared history, sense of humor, ability to communicate, role within the family.

In summary Dementia is a chronic, progressive disease; with no cure. Individuals and their families suffer multiple losses throughout the course of the disease. Think about ways you can help someone living with dementia.