The Whitworths of Arizona, bringing science to you in everyday language.

Sunday, October 15, 2017

Lewy Body Phrase for 10-15: What's Left

Dementia takes away a lot. Here are three functions that are left:

The senses: Seeing, hearing and touching may be affected by other issues, but not dementia, although it can change one's perception of what the senses deliver.

  • Communication tools: Smiles and gentle touch.

Emotions remain long after thinking has faded. When the senses deliver information about an experience, be aware that the emotion attached to that information is often one left over from a previous experience.

  • Communication tools: Hugs and loving words.

Concrete thinking: This basic, unfiltered thinking lasts to the end. It accepts what the senses deliver and the attached emotion and does its best to make sense of the experience. The result is often a delusion, or a faulty belief.

  • Communication tools: Simple words and acceptance. (Uh, huh, acceptance...not belief, but definitely acceptance!)

For more information about Lewy body disorders, read our books:
A Caregivers’ Guide to Lewy Body Dementia
Managing Cognitive Issues in Parkinson's and Lewy Body Dementia

Helen and James Whitworth are not doctors, lawyers or social workers. As informed caregivers, they share the information here for educational purposes only. It should never be used instead of a professional's advice.

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