Let's talk life - Understanding dementia

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  Understanding dementia

Dear Counsellor,

My mother is 80 years old and her memory is failing. She is forgetful. She has difficulty staying asleep at nights. A doctor told her that it is early dementia, and prescribed medication. He says the medication will slow the rate of memory failure.

Dear Nicole,

Dementia is a common condition and the frequency increases the older you get. Memory problems are always with us. Our working memory becomes more problematic as we grow older. So we will forget what we had for breakfast this morning or what we are supposed to be doing.

We all need memory aids. Have a to-do list every day and write down all the activities to be done for the day. Don't panic if you forget something because that's how life is. Have family members remind you of the activities, and tick off what you have accomplished for the day. It is very important to look at the list throughout the day. Some people keep diaries while others have personal assistants.  Accept the situation and let God help you to take things one day at a time.

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  Problems coping with depression

Dear Counsellor,

I am a professional and I have difficulty coping with depression. At times, I feel unhappy and worried. I isolate myself and don't have many friends.

Dear Annmarie,

Depression can affect anyone, whatever the age or status. Depression affects our thinking and behaviour. Depression is treatable, and you should see a psychiatrist. Negative thinking and aggressive behaviour will have to be dealt with. You need to have a positive relationship with God and call on him any time.

We are not in charge of ourselves, and we need to accept that we are powerless and helpless. Having decided that we need support from the Higher Power, we then need to depend on His direction. We worry that something bad is going to happen to us and we see danger everywhere. Our minds need to be at peace with the universe, and we need to be thankful for all that we have. Count your current and past blessings and claim future ones. Give thanks with a grateful heart and see God's hands in whatever we do.

Stress is everywhere, whatever job that we have. Accept that we will be anxious and worried at times, but we cannot let issues pull us down. Cry if you must, but pick yourself up and go on with your life. Make a conscious effort to keep up with family and friends. We need each other and we need to be supportive.

Cognitive-behaviour therapy will help you cope with unhappiness, worry and anxiety. Treat yourself with lots of love and tender care. Be kind to yourself. Remember that you are important to yourself because no one else cares. Maintain a positive outlook on life. Nothing lasts forever and remember to live one day at a time.

Email questions and feedback for Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson to yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call 978-8602.