What Alzheimer's Feels Like from the Inside?

It is probably impossible for someone not experiencing Alzheimer’s to understand what it feels like truth. However, we know that the early symptoms of the disease consist of some memory loss, which could present itself as the individual repeating themselves (such as by asking a question that was answered recently), misplacing items, or difficulty recalling the names of people or objects. Because symptoms of Alzheimer’s often progress slowly, the person may experience denial or assume that there are other reasons that they are experiencing these symptoms. Family members may also be in denial or become upset with the individual, which only increases the frustration associated with the forgetfulness. The person may feel embarrassed about his memory loss, and there may be a sense of desperation. Furthermore, because Alzheimer’s has a genetic link, the individual may have witnessed a family member battling Alzheimer’s in the past and may have memories of taking care of that person and watching their functioning decline.

At some point, to protect the safety of the person with Alzheimer’s and the general community, steps will need to be taken by family members that restrict the activities of the person. For example, the individual at some point will not be able to drive safely, the person may not be able to home by himself, and they may not be able to manage his own money. The person with Alzheimer’s may feel attacked or betrayed. He may also feel ashamed, taken advantage of, or looked down upon.

As Alzheimer’s progresses, the person will experience some difficulty communicating with others. They may feel misunderstood and frustrated. Rapid mood changes are also common with middle-stage Alzheimer’s, and the person may feel calm and, other times, feel agitated. However, it is common for those with Alzheimer’s to be prescribed medications that can help balance these moods, although they make the individual drowsy.

While Alzheimer’s can be devastating, how it affects a person will vary. What is important to remember is that interacting with the person can play a large role in how the person feels. Even when it takes some time for the person to communicate, try to listen and try to respond. Even if the person repeats himself, reply kindly. Even if the person cannot recall the names of objects, be understanding. Show empathy. Also, while there will need to be some restrictions regarding the person’s activities, try to allow the person to feel supported and have as much freedom as can be safely done. When the individual becomes upset with you, do not take this personally.

The good news is that, while Alzheimer’s can be devastating for the family, the person experiencing the symptoms, because of the memory loss and disorientation, may at some point feel perfectly content, not even recognizing that anything has changed. Treat the person with Alzheimer’s how you would want to be treated in that situation.