The symptoms of dementia include impaired judgment and uncertainty, memory loss, inability to articulate thoughts, comprehend what is being said, and occasionally getting lost in familiar places. All these qualities tend to be humiliating for the victims, and consequently, victims often end up with low self-esteem and a tendency to withdraw from society. The article’s memories in the making highlight some of the plight experienced by the victims. It offers remedies on how to overcome the embarrassments through taking part in activities such as participating in some art programs.
Due to the diminished self-esteem that dementia patients and their families endure, Rentz strongly emphasizes the necessity of caring for those afflicted by the condition. She makes suggestions for programs geared toward assisting individuals in achieving a more incredible feeling of well-being (Rentz, 2002). Despite the difficulties they have due to their current condition of continual memory loss, the individual can experience feelings of appreciation and value due to this.
Dementia patients frequently struggle with feelings of depression and self-pity. Rentz suggests routinely occupying them with mentally engaging activities such as artwork in her article. She argues that by participating in these activities, they can interact with one another and pay close attention to the tasks and those of others they connect. Even if only for a bit of time, it enables individuals to concentrate without distraction.
Finally, it is vital to remember that people with dementia should never be left alone. Due to their poor self-esteem, Rentz recommends creating a setting where the individual can connect with others and experience the love and care from such interaction. She claims that this makes them feel valued regardless of the destructive impacts of Alzheimer’s disease. According to Rentz’s research, positive feelings indicate that the subject can give and receive love and affection.
References
Rentz, C. A. (2002). Memories in the Making: Outcome-based evaluation of an art program for individuals with dementing illnesses. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias, 17(3), 175-181.