Dementia is commonly associated with its effect on short-term memory. However, one aspect that often goes unnoticed is how it impairs the brain’s ability to recognize and process the five senses: sight, smell, taste, hearing, and touch.
If you have a loved one with dementia, it’s important to be aware of these sensory changes and learn how to provide support. Here are some insights on each sense and practical tips to help you navigate this challenging journey:
You are viewing: The Impact of Alzheimer’s Disease on Our Senses
Sight: Navigating a Confusing World
While there may be no apparent issues with the eyes themselves, Alzheimer’s can disrupt the brain’s interpretation of images. This can lead to confusion and difficulty recognizing familiar faces and places. The ability to perceive colors and shapes may also be impaired. To assist your loved one, you can use color contrast strips to help them differentiate objects like drawers, cabinets, and steps.
Smell: Early Signs of Change
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One of the earliest senses affected by Alzheimer’s is smell. Individuals may experience confusion in identifying certain scents or a decline in sensory capability. If your loved one lives alone, it’s crucial to keep their refrigerator and cupboards free of outdated or spoiled food to avoid potential health risks.
Taste: The Loss of Flavor
Loss of smell can have a significant impact on our sense of taste. As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, the ability to distinguish flavors may diminish. This poses a risk of consuming spoiled food or beverages. Regularly check food items for freshness, and promptly dispose of anything that is past its prime.
Hearing: The Silent Struggle
Despite testing well for hearing, individuals with Alzheimer’s may struggle to process specific sounds. This can lead to confusion and anxiety. Creating a calm and quiet environment is essential for those with dementia. Speak slowly and calmly, and encourage friends and family to do the same when interacting with your loved one.
Touch: Numbness to the World
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Even the sense of touch can be affected by dementia. Individuals may lose the ability to feel sensations such as heat and cold. Safeguard their environment by implementing measures like color coding faucets for hot and cold water, and placing warning stickers on the oven and range top.
Understanding the impact of dementia on the senses allows you to prepare and provide better care for your loved one. By recognizing the changes in sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch, you can take precautions to avoid agitation and potential accidents.
At Anthem Memory Care communities, our staff members are experienced in assisting individuals with dementia and their sensory changes. Our buildings are thoughtfully designed to support those with dementia, ensuring their safety, comfort, and connection to those around them.
Remember, supporting and caring for someone with dementia requires patience, empathy, and understanding. Together, we can create an environment that promotes the highest quality of life for both individuals with dementia and their families.
Source: https://t-tees.com
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