Cognitive decline in parents: Ignorance is not bliss

For most of us, the thought of cognitive decline, particularly dementia, affecting our loved ones is often terrifying. Studies estimate that close to 9 million Indians over the age of 60 have dementia. The WHO found that between 60 and 70 per cent of these cases are due to Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common type of dementia. Despite being a common ailment, the immediate reaction to an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis is often avoidance or denial.

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that impairs cognitive functions, including memory, reasoning, and the ability to perform daily tasks. Unlike the usual changes that come with ageing, the cognitive loss caused by Alzheimer's disease is significant and interferes with the capability of the patient to live independently.

Unfortunately, the early signs of this debilitating disease are regularly ignored. This means that the chance for early intervention is missed and the condition continues to worsen. The disease also affects family members of the elderly, who suffer from the emotional and practical fallout. Early recognition of the disease can help alter its course and improve your parents’ quality of life.

The Dangers of Denial
Denial can be an obstacle to addressing Alzheimer's disease. Family members may ignore symptoms or think they are caused by age. This delays the diagnosis of the problem and denies elders the resources and support systems they need. It can lead to increased risks to their safety, emotional distress, and a lowered quality of life.

The most immediate problem with untreated or undiagnosed Alzheimer's is the risk of a patient suffering accidents and injuring themselves more often than normal. Reduced cognitive ability may lead to elderly parents forgetting to turn appliances off, losing essential items, or even wandering away from home. This may lead to a situation where they could end up hurting themselves. They may also be unable to take care of their own health. Missing appointments with their doctor or accidentally taking the wrong medicine could easily land them in the hospital.

Ignoring or downplaying Alzheimer's can cause family members to keep their loved one at home for longer than they should. Children become caregivers, pushed into a role they are unprepared for, leading to burnout and strained relationships. As Alzheimer’s progresses, the elderly struggle to socialise and end up isolating themselves. This isolation may increase their feeling of loneliness and depression.

Early diagnosis allows elderly parents to get treatments and therapies to manage the symptoms. Delaying this leaves fewer options for care.

What to do When You See Signs of Cognitive Decline
The first step in dealing with cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer's is to be able to recognise the early signs. Doctors can evaluate the patient, measure the extent of any impairment, and prescribe suitable interventions. Early diagnosis helps manage symptoms effectively, allowing for treatments that may slow down progression. It also allows families access to the information and resources they need to deal with the disease.
Early symptoms are more likely to be recognised if elders are surrounded by professionals who specialise in elderly care. Trained caregivers or elder care specialists can spot subtle changes in memory, behaviour, or daily functioning, prompting timely medical attention. Beyond medical intervention, these professionals can assist families in creating a supportive, structured environment at home that fosters independence while addressing the evolving needs of the elder.

Dealing with Alzheimer's disease is tough, but ignorance is not the answer. Recognising the signs, and being open to professional help can help families better handle this condition. Understanding the realities of cognitive decline among the elderly helps you give your ageing elders the support they need and preserves their dignity and quality of life.

(Author: Asheesh Gupta, Founder and Chief care Officer- Samarth)