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Despite all our research and advancements, Dementia is still such a mystery. As a caregiver, it can be a struggle. I don’t understand what my MIL is experiencing.
- Why is she acting this way?
- Why can’t she reason?
- What is going through her mind?
- Why can’t she follow such simple instructions?
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It doesn’t make sense. For a long time I thought if I could just say something the right way or explain it enough she would finally understand. But, no matter what I tried to do, my MIL never improved.
The 12-Minute Dementia Experience
In this video, Cynthia McFadden of ABC News interviewed a Texas man, Blaine, whose mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. The video details the frustrations this man and his wife experienced as they tried to be caregivers for his mother.
Blaine had a need to understand what his mother was experiencing so he and Cynthia embarked on this experience. They were each outfitted with seemingly simple equipment to imitate the aging process and symptoms of Dementia.
Then they were asked to do a series of very simple, everyday tasks. Their frustration is immediate as they attempt to follow these uncomplicated instructions. Their confusion grows and their actions become more and more awkward as the experience continues.
Understanding Dementia
At the end of this experience, both express feelings of panic, confusion, horror, anger, and frustration at their inability to complete these otherwise normal tasks calling this experience “life altering”. Blaine closed with words every caregiver should remember, “They need your understanding.”
Having a better understanding of what someone with Dementia may be experiencing will make you a more patient caregiver. Knowing the confusion, the anger, the frustration they must be going through might make you rethink your reactions.
Did you like this post? What are your thoughts on the Dementia experience? Let me know in the comments below!
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