The experience of caring for individuals living with dementia can be incredibly challenging for family caregivers. The persistent insistence of the individuals that they are capable of certain tasks, despite evidence to the contrary, can lead to frustration and emotional strain for those providing care. There is a constant struggle between their desire for independence and the recognition of their actual need for assistance. This often results in frequent arguments and disagreements, making each day an exhausting and emotionally draining experience for both the caregivers and the individuals living with dementia.

When it comes to understanding anosognosia and its impact on individuals living with dementia, it’s important to recognize the profound implications it has on their ability to self-monitor and recognize their own limitations. Anosognosia, pronounced AH-NO-SO-GA-NO-ZI-AH, represents a significant challenge as it affects the individual’s awareness of their own cognitive decline and functional abilities. In essence, it leads to a state where they “forget that they forget,” rendering them unable to accurately gauge their own capabilities.

This lack of insight into their condition and limitations can lead to various difficulties in daily life, both for the individual living with dementia and those around them. Consider the example of someone with anosognosia attempting activities that may pose a risk to their safety due to their inability to acknowledge their current limitations. This highlights the critical nature of anosognosia and the need for understanding and support within the caregiving environment to ensure the well-being of individuals affected by dementia.

Moreover, the concept of insight, which is compromised by anosognosia, underscores the fundamental ability we possess to monitor and understand our behaviors. This ability to assess ourselves and make informed decisions based on our capabilities is essential for functioning independently and safely. By recognizing the impact of anosognosia, caregivers and loved ones can adapt their approaches to provide the necessary support and guidance while respecting the individual’s dignity and autonomy.

Overall, anosognosia presents a complex and profound aspect of dementia that necessitates empathy, understanding, and tailored support to navigate its challenges and ensure the well-being of those living with dementia. Through awareness and education, we can work towards creating an environment that fosters compassion and effective care for individuals with anosognosia and dementia.

A New Option for Dementia Caregivers

It’s crucial for caregivers to seek support and resources to navigate these difficulties and find ways to approach and manage such situations with compassion and understanding. With that in mind, I would like to invite you and other members of your family to participate in an online study that I am running. This study teaches family caregivers how to prevent and manage uncooperative behavior, something we also call care-resistant behaviors. You each will receive 9 one-hour private coaching sessions over Zoom. These sessions are held weekly for six weeks, then every other week for six weeks. We are flexible with scheduling.

You and other family caregivers will also be asked to complete two questionnaires, two sets of 7-day daily diaries, and an evaluation. You will be paid for completing these items: $25 for each questionnaire and $2 for each daily diary, for a total of $78.

At least two people caring for the same person must participate in the research at the same time, but they do not attend the same coaching sessions.

If you are curious and would like more information, please email me: rita.jablonski@makedementiayourb.blog. I look forward to hearing from you!

Categories: Dementia

Dr. Rita Jablonski

Rita Jablonski, PhD, CRNP, FAAN, FGSA is a nurse practitioner, researcher, tenured professor, and former family caregiver. Her research and practice involve all aspects of dementia management; she is best known for non-drug strategies to address dementia-related behaviors.