EDITORIAL

Support for caregivers crucial

In Barbados, we have a saying that ‘when the head is bad, the whole body is bad’ and it is often repeated when speaking of persons with a mental illness. Sentiments like these may be at the heart of why persons ignore warning signs that should be checked, but when investigated, are caught too late, particularly as it relates to dementia. Dementia is not a mental illness, but an overall term used to describe the deteriorating state of brain functions such as memory and problem-solving that can cause significant interference with a person’s daily life. However, due to ignorance these symptoms may be dismissed as a person’s ‘head going bad’ or a feature of old age.

Estimates indicate that there are over 4 000 persons with dementia in Barbados, a figure that is only an approximation; there may very well be more undiagnosed cases that have not come to light. Of note is the staggering statistic that every three seconds, someone in the world develops dementia, and that the number of cases are increasing. Regrettably, lack of education means an abundance of stereotypes or untruths that abound. For example, it isn’t only older persons who can be diagnosed with dementia; while the elderly make up primary patients, it has been found that persons younger than 65 are being diagnosed with dementia, even in Barbados, as some persons in their 40s and 50s present with the disease. In addition, minor forgetfulness does not signify the onset of dementia, nor is the condition a normal part of ageing.

Support is therefore crucial for the caregivers of patients with dementia, particularly those family members who are overburdened by care needs. There can be emotional, physical and financial strain on caregivers, some of whom may also have children and other major responsibilities. The emotional impact of seeing a loved one deteriorate slowly in real time, usually with severe memory loss, is arguably the hardest impact, and one that is prolonged and agonising. In addition, the financial resources needed to deal with patients through doctor’s visits, at home and after hours care can be burdensome, especially in challenging times such as these.

This makes the point clear, as stated recently by President of the Barbados Alzheimer’s Association Pamelia Brereton, that dementia is the concern of everyone, because of how many persons are directly and indirectly affected by the condition. As Barbados continues to be faced with a higher elderly population, more persons must be taught about the growing diseases that affect the elderly – or those who are middle-aged – to ensure the best treatment and comfort for all.

Mental conditions have long had unfortunate stigmas associated with them. Education must be encouraged to shatter the myth that dementia only happens to certain persons, or only runs in a family’s medical history, as well as provide best guidance on how to care for a loved one with the condition. Since September is World Alzheimer’s Month, it is timely to discuss the accurate diagnosing, treatment of, care for and state support for dementia. We also hope that these discussions will encourage those who have not yet sought out diagnosis for themselves or loved ones to do so armed without fear of the reputation that exists surrounding certain conditions in our population.

Barbados Advocate

Mailing Address:
Advocate Publishers (2000) Inc
Fontabelle, St. Michael, Barbados

Phone: (246) 467-2000
Fax: (246) 434-2020 / (246) 434-1000