Due to advancements in science and medicine people are growing older at a much larger rate than ever before. However, along with the aging process comes the possibility of dementia illness leading to Alzheimer disease. If you’ve ever had a loved one afflicted with it you may understand how difficult it can become walking through it with them. The family member or friend may be the first one to realize something is wrong. Forgetting little things at first, but then experiencing more important aspects of life such as personal hygiene or even eating.

In their book “The 36-Hour Day,” authors Nancy Mack, M.A. and Peter V. Rabins, M.D. state “In those illnesses in which the dementia is progressive, the person’s memory gradually becomes worse and his troubles cannot be concealed.” This is where the hard times can begin. Even though it’s often apparent to others that problems are occurring, the worse the disease becomes the harder it is for the person to realize it and possibly to the point of denial. The more they are losing themselves the more lost they become to the family and others around them. I’ve had to experience this with my own mother-in-law. Although medications have slowed down the progressiveness of the disease, her mind is constantly losing ability to focus, think clearly and remember.

As we observe how this once very vibrant and full of life person has become, we realize that we are truly losing her even before she’s left us. It is also a reminder of how important it is to spend time with those you love before something devastating occurs. Dementia leading to Alzheimer disease plays no favorites and gives no relief. Due to there being no cure as of yet for it we can only stand by and watch it take its course. Having others to talk to concerning this illness and its effects is vital. At GROW Counseling we have counselors available to do so.