Alzheimer’s: a study explains why sufferers no longer recognize their loved ones

In the face of Alzheimer’s disease, landmarks waver and bonds are tested. For example, a parent may no longer recognize a familiar face. It’s a phenomenon that upsets families, but one that can be explained.

Why family memories fade

Episodic memory depends on thehippocampus and temporal lobes. These areas are damaged early in Alzheimer’s disease. As a result, recent scenes disappear before older memories. This is an unfair and often confusing loss for the loved one.

In Alzheimer’s disease, face recognition follows a dedicated pathway. So, you can see but not identify your partner. The name doesn’t come, and the relationship becomes blurred. On the other hand, a voice or a scent may awaken affection.

The brain retains bonding emotions longer. A caress, a photo or music, for example, are reassuring. In addition, joint attention and rituals stabilize daily life. These supports help despite Alzheimer’s and its fluctuating symptoms.

“Memory doesn’t disappear all at once; it crumbles in layers.”

What recent research shows

Studies are converging on a cascade model. First, Alzheimer’s affects the encoding of recent events. Next, disorientation alters spatial and social cues. Finally, attentional variations aggravate memory lapses.

However, the brain’s plasticity can still be mobilized. A predictable environment reduces anxiety and rejection. Calmly repeating one’s first name helps with orientation. These cues benefit people with Alzheimer’s disease on a daily basis.

• Display captioned photos at eye level.
• Simplify your wardrobe choices, one outfit at a time.
• Write appointments on a large, visible calendar.
• In the case of advanced Alzheimer’s, secure doors at night.
• Use short sentences, one idea per sentence.

Supporting a loved one on a daily basis

Introduce yourself at every meeting, no matter how obvious it may seem. That way, you can take the pressure off and avoid failure. Speak in the first person, in short, concrete sentences. This framework makes Alzheimer’s a little less unpredictable for everyone.

Use the senses to revive emotional memories. For example, get out the photo album of family celebrations. Or sing a familiar tune as you prepare the meal. These experiences bypass Alzheimer’s and re-establish a bond.

Keep a clear routine, from getting up to going to bed. Then adjust one thing at a time, never all at once. Warn before touching, then explain each gesture. A shared rhythm makes you feel secure and reduces conflict.

Soothing words and attitudes

Look at the person at eye level, without hurrying. This way, your message gets across better than quick explanations. On the other hand, avoiding memory tests preserves esteem. These choices maintain dignity despite Alzheimer’s and fatigue.

Say what you see, rather than correct. This keeps the conversation open and calm. What’s more, suggest a simple action to regain attention. These micro-steps help with Alzheimer’s in delicate moments.

What we know about the brain, and what lies ahead

The disease involves amyloid and tau proteins, but not only. Inflammation and vascular factors also weigh heavily. In Alzheimer’s, these mechanisms combine and support each other. This puzzle guides trials and non-drug approaches.

Regular physical activity also supports cognitive reserve. Thirty minutes a day already makes a difference. Restorative sleep consolidates learning and calms the mood. These levers help with Alzheimer’s, at any stage.

Today, over 55 million people live with dementia. In France, nearlya million are affected, often at home. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia. This means that we need to accompany, inform and support families.

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