Dementia is a scary diagnosis. Losing the ability to remember how to do everyday tasks, who people are and what you just did seems daunting and frightening. In America we prize independence to the point that a Dementia diagnosis seems shameful like something you should hide. But this attitude may be more harmful than the actual disease to those suffering dementia and their families. Attitudes and cultural differences from other countries about aging and dealing with aged are much kinder and gentler.
In Japan a medical diagnosis does not change the connection with friends and family. Receiving and giving help to each other is valued.
In China a family shows its strength when it assumes responsibility for an ailing loved one.
In India the Hindu culture takes pride in taking care of the parents. This is seen a part of life’s natural cycle.
An estimated 6 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s at the moment, expected to grow to 15 million by 2050. All of us will probably know someone who has a form of dementia at some point. Finding a kinder more accepting approach to those suffering can erase the stigma over the loss of independence and we can become more caring, encouraging and accepting of late in life challenges.
Different cultures deal with dementia differently; and can cast light on how to better help #HealthStatus
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Key Points:
- 1Asian cultures view dementia differently and consider social relationships and culture.
- 2Americans regard it as an irreversible neurologic condition associated with considerable stigma.
- 3Society should see it as not only a brain disorder but also a social disorder.
See the original at: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2018-08-cultures-dementia.html
Action Steps:
- 1Read about the Four Stages of Caregiving
- 2Are You a Caregiver or Know One? Get the Enable Caregiver Course
- 3Register to get free health eBooks and content. (click here)
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