Trauma & Mental Health Support - Alzheimer's & Dementia

In this lesson we will explore the definition of Dementia & Alzheimer's Disease.

In this video Keshnie Mathi, who is also an End of Life Doula and End of Life Doula Trainer (Internationally Accredited Course) takes a client Sue M. through an Advance Directive.

An Advance Directive allows a client to make their medical decisions and decisions around end of life preferences for themselves, so their families do not have to wonder if they have made the right decisions.

Also called a Living Will, this can be filled out by the living and amended as their life dynamic changes.

I have attached a copy of an Advance Directive. Please check for the version in your country.

Behaviours and emotions can change rapidly and dramatically as the disease progresses. This is the normal process of the illness but can be traumatic for all involved.

We recognise that families sometimes take the role of the caregiver too and most are not as prepared as they would like to be.

Take a look under RESOURCES for the following videos:

Caregiver Tips: Water Fear & Refusal to Have a Bath

Caregiver Tips: Changing Dignity Wear

Caregiver Tips: Bed Baths

Caregiver Tips: Refusal to Take Medication

Childhood dementia is an inherited disorder that affects the metabolism of the brain. Initial symptoms include degeneration of sight followed by epileptic seizures, blindness, deafness, dementia and early death.

The medical term for childhood dementia is neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL). More than ten types of the disease are known. They are all caused by different genetic mutations. No treatment is available and they are all lethal.

Take a look under RESOURCES in this lecture for the following links to information around:

Faces of Childhood Dementia & Their Daily Battle

A Mother's Experience of Childhood Dementia

What Is Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease?

Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease is a form of the progressive, memory-robbing brain condition that appears in people before the age of 65. It most often shows up when you're in your 40s and 50s, but can also occur in your 30s.

The diagnosis is usually shocking, and it means you need to plan now for big changes ahead so you'll be safe and get the care you need as time goes on. Be sure to find out about Advance Care Planning in your country or contact connect@wellnessspecialist.co.za for more information about Advance Directives and End of Life Practitioners who can help!

Because Alzheimer's takes away your memory and your ability to think clearly and, ultimately, to take care of yourself, you'll need a strong support system. Turn to family, friends, and local chapters of the Alzheimer's Association, and other groups to get started making a plan for the rest of your life.

Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease Symptoms

The signs of early-onset Alzheimer’s are largely the same as those for the late-onset version of the disease. It starts with small memory lapses and problems with your brain function that get worse until they affect your ability to manage your daily life.

The Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination (SAGE) is an online test that promises to detect the early stages of Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Developed by researchers at Ohio State University, the test is designed to be done at home and then taken to a physician for a more formal evaluation

Please take a look at the RESOURCE part of this lesson for the following videos:

Living with early onset Dementia

The children of those diagnosed with Early Onset Dementia

Living with Dementia & how to keep Symptoms at Bay

Please take a look at the RESOURCES section of this lesson for videos related to the relationship between Sport & Dementia

Thank you so much for watching. Please check in the RESOURCE section for some good to know information and learning material.

Understanding Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

What is Dementia

Life Interview Questions

DementiaTraining Support Notes

Read about how to access your customised certificate and access free resources!