Garlands get real about memory loss and dementia

Where are my keys? You look familiar but I cannot recall your name?

Am I losing my mind or am I at risk of developing dementia?

These are some of the questions that often plague our thoughts as we grow older.

Deddie Beech, deputy manager of Rand Aids’ Elphin Lodge Care Centre, Modderfontein, was the guest speaker at the August meeting of the Garlands Ladies Luncheon Club.

Beech spoke to members about the differences between age-related memory loss and dementia, risk factors and symptoms.

“Dementia is known as the umbrella term for 99 vascular illnesses, with the most common being Alzheimer’s,” said Beech.

“It is estimated that by 2050, 152 million people would be suffering from dementia and related diseases that are often characterised by severe memory loss.”

She further explained that the illness affects the brain’s short-term memory function but as it progresses it will impair skills such as sequencing, reasoning, rational thinking, problem solving and other aspects of daily living.

“A person suffering from dementia will often create a reality of their own, seeded in past memories that are still vivid and clear,” she said.

“In this reality, patients will not recognise their family members but instead connect them to past memories, of a younger person.

“Although the memories of family and friends may escape the patient, they do feel an emotional connection. The memories may be gone but the feelings towards loved-ones are not forgotten.”

Normal age-related memory loss vs dementia
• Can easily completing daily tasks opposed to impaired functionality.

• Individuals are curious and engage with objects, such as reading a book. Dementia patients do not engage and appears disinterested unless coaxed to engage with objects.

• With normal memory loss, individuals may forget particular aspects of an event, while patients will have no memory of the event at all.

• With the onset of dementia family members are the first to recognise the symptoms.

• Patients will often forget the uses of daily appliances.

• With age-related memory loss, individuals will continue to engage socially whereas dementia patients will withdraw from any activity that they find overwhelming.

In closing Beech reiterated that a healthy lifestyle and activities that stimulate the brain are essential to decrease the risk of developing of dementia related illnesses.

The next Garland meeting will be held on September 22, at the Ebotse Country Club’s Katse Room.

For more information regarding the club or to join email thegarlandladieslunchoenclub@gmail.com or follow them on Facebook.

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