Tag Archives: dementia
Viewpoint: Does deafness contribute to dementia?
More people suffer problems with their hearing than any of the other senses.
By Prof David McAlpine Director of the UCL Ear Institute
Recent scientific research has suggested there could be a connection between hearing loss and the brain, contributing to greater cognitive decline as we age.
More people suffer problems with their hearing than any of the other senses. Whether the reasons are genetic, caused by exposure to damaging levels of sound, or simply growing older, about one in seven people in the UK suffer some form of hearing disorder.
Such hearing impairment often causes communication problems in social situations, but can also result in disadvantages in education, employment and even earning potential.
According to 2005 estimates by the World Health Organization (WHO), about five million people worldwide are suffering from profound hearing loss, and 50% of all people over 65 are affected by age-related hearing loss (presbycusis).
Past carer has been on safari, taken a balloon ride and won a dancing trophy?
Rosa McMahon Saturday, November 24, 2012
10:00 AM
But what will she do next?
When Irene Whitmore lost her husband after half a century of marriage, she was adamant she wouldn’t let the grief of his death and the 20 years of caring for him stop her from enjoying life.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease:
– Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition, which means that it will continue to get worse as it develops.
Early symptoms include:
– Minor memory problems
– Difficulty saying the right words
– Disorientation
– Personality changes
– Behavioural changes
– Disorientation
– Delusions, believing things that are untrue
– A belief that you have done or experienced something that never happened
So, in the three years since Alzheimer’s disease took her beloved Bob, the inspirational great-grandmother from Sprowston has devoted her efforts to making sure she enjoys life to the full.
From going on a Kenyan safari, to taking a balloon ride over Norwich, and even winning a medal in an international dancing competition, the 82-year-old can now say she has done it all.
Experiences of Dementia / Tommy Whitelaw
Tommy Whitelaw, from Glasgow has been a full-time carer for his mother who has vascular dementia for the last 5 years. Through this Tommy has became a campaigner raising awareness of the issues surrounding dementia. Tommy has produced a short film which provides an insight into the issues and challenges faced with those coping with Dementia and those caring for those with Dementia. You can view the film by clicking the link below (requires Flash player).
Tommy continues to speak to carers groups, as well as key decision-makers who have influence over the lives of people affected by dementia. He is still gathering experiences, to make sure they are shared with those who can make life better for carers.
