What is dementia? In simple terms

Contents:

• What is dementia?
• How to recognize dementia in the early stages?
• How does a person with developing dementia behave?
• What is the most common cause of dementia?
• How to reduce the risk of developing dementia?

This material will introduce you to the key aspects of the topic. We will provide information that will help you better understand the main concepts and their application. You will receive useful tips and recommendations that will improve your understanding and knowledge of the topic. Our text is aimed at giving you a clear understanding of the subject and highlighting important points to consider. Stay with us to deepen your knowledge and skills in this area.

• What is dementia and how terrible is it;
• How does dementia begin and is everyone doomed to face it;
• How do people with dementia behave and what are the causes of this disease;
• How to reduce the risk of developing dementia and where to learn more about it.

Neurologist-somnologist and deputy chief physician for development of the Sibneiromed pain and neurological diseases treatment clinic in Novosibirsk. He is the director of the ANO DPO "Neurosciences and Education" and secretary of the journal "Neurology of Siberia." He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases, as well as the study of sleep disorders. He has extensive experience in neurology and is actively involved in research, as evidenced by publications in professional journals.

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What is dementia?

Dementia is a neurocognitive disorder characterized by the gradual loss of cognitive function. This condition can cause difficulties with memory, thinking, perception, and even behavior. Key symptoms of dementia include memory loss, difficulty communicating, disorientation in space and time, and changes in emotional state. These changes can significantly impact a person's quality of life and their ability to function independently. Early detection and diagnosis of dementia is important, as it can help in choosing the appropriate therapy and improving the patient's living conditions.

• memory;
• thinking;
• speech;
• attention;
• praxis;
• gnosis.

The International Classification of Diseases, 11th revision (ICD-11) states that dementia is characterized primarily by memory impairment. However, for an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to identify impairments in at least two cognitive functions. This emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive assessment of the patient's condition, which contributes to more effective diagnosis and treatment of dementia.

Dementia is an acquired disease, which means that it does not occur at birth, but throughout life. If a person experiences episodic memory impairment or difficulty concentrating from an early age, this is not considered dementia. With dementia, there is a loss of already acquired skills and abilities, which significantly affects the quality of life. For this reason, dementia is classified as a neurodegenerative disease, characterized by a progressive decline in cognitive function.

Dementia broadly refers to a decline in cognitive function, but this term is not always appropriate. The underlying cause of dementia is neurodegenerative diseases that result in the accumulation of abnormal proteins, such as beta-amyloid and alpha-synuclein, in brain tissue. These proteins contribute to the destruction of nerve cells, which in turn leads to cognitive decline. A proper understanding of the mechanisms of dementia is important for developing effective treatments and supporting patients.

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Madness is a mental health condition characterized by a disrupted perception of reality, emotional instability, and behavioral changes. It can manifest itself as various mental disorders, such as depression, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder. It's important to recognize that many people may not notice the early signs of mental disorders, which can lead to their condition worsening. Symptoms such as persistent anxiety, mood changes, sleep disturbances, or social isolation can signal problems. Early diagnosis and seeking help from specialists can significantly improve quality of life and prevent the development of more serious mental illnesses. Understanding your emotions and openly discussing problems with loved ones are also important steps in maintaining mental health.

The US National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website states that dementia is not a specific disease, but a general condition characterized by impaired thinking, memory, and consciousness. This condition can develop due to various factors, but in most cases, it leads to a loss of the ability to cope with simple everyday tasks and becomes dependent on outside assistance. Unfortunately, in most cases, this condition is fatal.

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Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia worldwide, remains incurable. However, there are promising developments in clinical trials, raising hopes for an effective cure in the future. Importantly, treatments are already available that can slow the progression of the disease and prolong life. These approaches represent significant steps in the fight against this disease and can significantly improve the quality of life for people suffering from dementia.

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According to the World Health Organization, approximately 55 million people worldwide suffer from dementia, with Alzheimer's disease accounting for up to 70% of cases. The situation appears extremely alarming, but Ksenia Doronina emphasizes that not all forms of dementia lead to tragic consequences. For example, in cases where cognitive loss is associated with internal organ diseases—such as liver, kidney, lung, or stomach disease—a fatal outcome can be prevented. In such cases, it is important to promptly identify and address the underlying cause of the problem, which can significantly improve the patient's quality of life.

The US National Library of Medicine website states that the treatment of dementias caused by infections and toxic liver damage has a positive prognosis with early medical attention. It is also worth noting that cognitive decline can be associated with severe forms of depression. With successful treatment of depression, the symptoms of dementia can disappear, emphasizes Ksenia Doronina. Early diagnosis and adequate treatment play a key role in improving the condition of patients with dementia.

Depression is surrounded by many myths and stereotypes that can distort the understanding of this condition. It's important to understand what's true and what's not. Many people believe that depression is simply a bad mood or temporary weakness. In fact, it's a serious mental illness that requires attention and treatment. People often assume that depression only affects women, but in fact, it can affect anyone, regardless of gender. There's also a misconception that depression is always accompanied by sadness. However, some people may experience apathy or loss of interest in life without any obvious signs of sadness. Another common myth is that people with depression can simply "pull themselves together" and stop feeling sad. This ignores the seriousness of the illness and the need for professional help. The simplistic notion that depression always has a clear cause is also incorrect. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, and life circumstances. Finally, there's a stereotype that depression is a sign of weakness, which is completely untrue. Depression is an illness, and having it doesn't make you weak. It's important to dispel these myths to raise awareness about depression and help those who suffer from it.

How to recognize dementia at an early stage?

To promptly identify alarming symptoms and seek help at an early stage, experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) advise paying attention to the following signs:

• A person often loses things, cannot remember where he left his glasses, phone, keys, purse or parked car.
• A person “gets lost” in space, easily turns the wrong way on familiar routes and has difficulty orienting himself in the area even with a map.
• A person seems to forget about time, does not notice how hours and days pass, forgets what month and day of the week it is.
• Any decision is given to a person with difficulty.
• In a conversation, a person is often distracted, as if not hearing part of the dialogue, has difficulty choosing words and gets confused in his arguments and reasons.
• Familiar tasks begin to cause Stupor (for example, a person suddenly becomes helpless in front of a duvet cover or forgets how to brush their teeth properly).

In the early stages of dementia, difficulties visually judging distances between objects are often observed. This can manifest as difficulty moving or performing everyday tasks. Memory lapses and episodes of forgetfulness regarding recent events are also typical. These symptoms can significantly impact quality of life and require the attention of specialists for timely diagnosis and support.

Ksenia Doronina highlights emotional instability as one of the warning signs of dementia. In a person with this disease, spontaneous expressions of joy, such as laughter, can suddenly give way to tears. These emotional "swings" can occur several times throughout the day, which indicates the need to carefully monitor changes in the patient's condition.

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Emotional swings are mood swings that a person can experience in response to various external and internal factors. These emotional swings often lead to feelings of instability and uncertainty. Emotional swings can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal changes, trauma, or even environmental influences.

To find balance and cope with emotional fluctuations, it's important to understand their nature. Self-awareness and keeping an emotional journal can help identify the triggers that cause mood swings. It's also worth paying attention to your physical health: regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet can help improve your emotional well-being.

Working with a psychologist or participating in support groups can be effective methods for finding inner harmony. Relaxation practices such as meditation and yoga also help restore emotional balance, allowing you to better cope with negative emotions and stress.

Understanding your emotions and taking active steps to regulate them will help you create a more stable and harmonious emotional state.

The early symptoms of dementia can easily be confused with the normal signs of aging. For example, forgetting where you left your keys or being unsure of a coworker's name doesn't always indicate a disease. However, if you have difficulty remembering the names of loved ones or a familiar location becomes unfamiliar, this is a serious cause for concern. Such changes in memory can serve as a warning sign and require the attention of a specialist.

Timely diagnosis and initiation of treatment play a key role in slowing the progression of the disease. Unfortunately, initial symptoms often cause no concern for either the patient or their loved ones. Forgetfulness, behavioral changes such as hoarding or loss of former hobbies, and emotional disturbances, including resentment, tearfulness, and suspiciousness, are perceived as normal manifestations of aging. It is important to remember that these signs can signal more serious problems and should be discussed with a doctor for timely intervention and treatment.

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Dementia is often associated with older adults, but it is important to understand that it is a condition that requires diagnosis and medical intervention. Age alone does not cause dementia, and many older adults retain mental clarity and remain active in life. It is important to dispel the myths that old age inevitably leads to memory loss and loss of self-awareness. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can significantly improve quality of life and maintain connection with the world around us.

Ksenia notes that the risk of developing dementia increases with age, but the disease can also occur in younger people. Regardless of age, dementia can present with a variety of symptoms. In some cases, the disease begins with hallucinations, while in rare cases, it begins with falls, unsteadiness, general weakness, or insomnia. It is important to pay attention to these signs and seek medical attention promptly.

There are many reasons to pay attention to current events and trends. Staying informed about the latest news helps you stay informed about changes in your field of work, which can have a significant impact on your professional career and personal development. Remember that information is an important resource that can help you make informed decisions and identify new opportunities. Stay informed to stay competitive and adaptive in a rapidly changing world.

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How to Fall Asleep Quickly: 9 Effective Tips

Sleep plays an important role in our lives, and quality rest is essential for maintaining health. If you have difficulty falling asleep, use these nine proven tips to help you fall asleep quickly.

First, create a comfortable sleep environment. Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Use blackout curtains and earplugs if necessary.

Second, establish a regular sleep routine. Go to bed and wake up at the same time, even on weekends. This will help your body tune into the right rhythm.

Third, avoid stimulants before bed. Caffeine and nicotine can interfere with sleep, so it's best to avoid them a few hours before bedtime.

Fourth, create a relaxing pre-bedtime ritual. Reading a book, meditating, or taking a warm shower can help you prepare for rest.

Fifth, limit your use of electronic devices. The blue light emitted by phones and tablets can disrupt the production of melatonin, a hormone responsible for sleep.

Sixth, watch your diet. Avoid heavy foods and alcohol before bed, as these can cause discomfort and interfere with sleep.

Seventh, engage in physical activity. Regular exercise helps improve the quality of sleep, but avoid intense workouts immediately before bed.

Eighth, try deep breathing techniques or meditation. These methods will help you relax and reduce stress, which will make it easier to fall asleep.

Finally, if sleep problems persist, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Professional help may be necessary to identify and address the causes of insomnia.

By following these tips, you can improve the quality of your sleep and fall asleep faster, which will positively impact your overall well-being.

The challenge with diagnosis is that symptoms of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease, may not appear until ten years after the first devastating changes in the brain, according to Karen Duff, professor and director of the UK Dementia Research Institute. Unfortunately, by this time, the disease may already be in its late stages, making treatment and management more challenging. It is important to raise awareness of the early signs of dementia and Alzheimer's to ensure timely diagnosis and intervention.

When dementia is diagnosed, a patient loses the ability to independently manage various aspects of their life. Typically, these individuals are unable to work and experience difficulty performing everyday tasks such as shopping, using appliances, preparing food, and maintaining personal hygiene. At this stage, the individual requires assistance, which can range from providing food to full participation in their life, including monitoring physiological processes. Ksenia Doronina is an experienced specialist in her field. She possesses deep knowledge and skills that enable her to successfully manage a variety of tasks. Ksenia actively engages in professional development, participating in seminars and conferences, which helps her stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies. Her approach to work is based on meticulous analysis and systematization of information, making her a valuable asset to any team. Ksenia Doronina is also known for her ability to find creative solutions and develop effective strategies, which helps achieve her goals.

How does a person with developing dementia behave?

Initial symptoms become increasingly pronounced: forgetfulness develops into amnesia. People often lose memory of recent events, such as what happened this morning or even five minutes ago, but they also remember events that happened thirty years ago with surprising clarity. This phenomenon highlights the complexity and paradoxical nature of human memory.

Ksenia Doronina notes that unmotivated outbursts of irritability and aggression can be a sign of progressive neurodegeneration. Often, harmless questions and offers of help from loved ones are met with hostility: shouting, angry glances, or attempts to push, hit, or run away. Such reactions are often due to heightened suspicion and delusional beliefs, which are also a consequence of dementia. Understanding these manifestations is important for providing support and assistance to people suffering from neurodegenerative diseases.

Some people experience a constant feeling of being watched. They are wary of leaving their homes, reacting warily to any sounds, and anxiously looking around when entering a bus or store. In other cases, a person with dementia may be convinced that their loved ones are plotting against them, trying to poison, steal, or send them to the hospital, or even "hand them over" to strangers. Such experiences can significantly impair quality of life and cause additional suffering for both the patients themselves and their families.

It is important to remember that the behavior, words, and actions of a person with dementia are not malicious. Their behavior and thinking are significantly affected by the disease. While there is no universal guide to communicating with such people, there are basic recommendations. It is necessary to be gentle and patient, avoid aggressive reactions, and resist irritability. These principles will help create a comfortable atmosphere for communication and maintain positive contact with a person suffering from dementia.

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Reading is an important part of our daily experience. It not only develops comprehension skills but also broadens our horizons. Reading books, articles, and other materials helps us delve deeper into different topics, learn new things, and develop critical thinking. It is important to choose a variety of information sources to enrich your knowledge and improve your level of education. Reading promotes personal growth and the development of a unique worldview. Therefore, try to set aside time for reading every day to not only gain information but also enjoy the process. Communicating with older adults requires a special approach to avoid conflicts and misunderstandings. It is important to be patient and respectful, taking into account their life experiences and needs. Start the conversation with a friendly tone and ask open-ended questions to encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings. Listen attentively, avoiding interruptions. This will help create an atmosphere of trust and rapport. Keep in mind that older adults may have their own communication preferences, so try to adapt your style to their expectations. Use simple and clear phrases, avoiding complex terms or slang. Remember the importance of nonverbal communication. Maintain eye contact and use friendly gestures. Establishing an emotional connection can significantly reduce the likelihood of conflict. When necessary, be flexible and willing to compromise to find common ground in contentious situations.

Following these simple guidelines will help you build harmonious relationships with older adults and create a comfortable atmosphere for communication.

Ksenia notes that Alzheimer's disease primarily affects memory. This neurodegenerative disease leads to a decline in the ability to memorize new information and recall previously learned facts. As a result, patients may experience difficulties in everyday life, losing their sense of time and place. Understanding the mechanism of Alzheimer's disease and its impact on memory is an important step in finding effective treatments and supporting patients.

• In the early stages, a person periodically forgets words, terms, and names of distant acquaintances.
• Then, important dates, faces, and names of distant friends are "erased" from the mind.
• Next, problems with orientation in familiar places begin, a person gets lost in his home neighborhood and, having forgotten his address, may leave to look for the house where he lived as a child.
• In the next advanced stage of the disease, a person stops recognizing his family, forgets key details of his life (he cannot remember where he studied, who he is married to, whether he has children and pets).

The rate of disease progression depends on its type, notes Ksenia. With Alzheimer's disease, development can take from 6 to 10 years from the onset of the first symptoms, and in some cases the process can drag on even longer. Rare diseases, such as progressive supranuclear palsy, typically have a shorter course, ranging from 3 to 6 years. Understanding the progression timelines of various diseases is important for treatment planning and support for patients and their families.

It is important to understand that the behaviors, words, and actions of a person with dementia are not intentional or malicious. Their thinking and behavior are influenced by the disease. While there is no universal guide to communicating with people with dementia, as everything depends on the individual and the specific case, some basic principles can be identified. It is necessary to exercise gentleness and patience, avoid aggressive reactions, and resist irritation. These approaches will help create a more comfortable atmosphere for communication and support.

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What is the most common cause of dementia?

To reiterate, up to 70% of dementia cases worldwide are caused by Alzheimer's disease. The remaining 30% are made up of various forms of dementia, including vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, frontotemporal dementia, and other rare types. These diseases can also significantly impact cognitive function and quality of life for patients. English: It is important to remember that early diagnosis and intervention can help slow the progression of diseases and improve the condition of patients.

• neurodegenerative diseases other than Alzheimer's disease;
• vascular dementias due to hypertension, diabetes, and atherosclerosis;
• dementias caused by brain damage in severe epilepsy;
• dementias that develop due to infectious and autoimmune diseases;
• dementias due to the effects of poisoning (for example, alcohol or heavy metals);
• dementias due to injuries and cerebrovascular accidents (in particular, dementia after strokes).

In all of these cases, there is "pollution" of the brain due to the formation of "sticky" proteins. These proteins combine into plaques and "lumps", which interferes with the normal functioning of neural circuits, and can ultimately lead to their rupture. Such changes in brain structure cause cognitive impairment and problems with memory and thinking.

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Aging is a natural biological process characterized by a gradual deterioration in body functions and an increased risk of disease. From a scientific point of view, aging is associated with many factors, including genetic, cellular, and molecular changes. At the cellular level, aging manifests itself as a decrease in cell division, accumulation of DNA damage, and a decrease in the ability to regenerate.

With age, changes in the structure and function of organs also occur, which can lead to diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Research in gerontology seeks to understand the mechanisms of aging in order to develop effective methods to slow this process and improve the quality of life of older people.

Oxidative stress and inflammatory processes play a significant role in aging, which can accelerate damage to cells and tissues. Modern research is aimed at identifying ways to minimize these processes through diet, physical activity, and medical interventions.

Thus, aging is a complex and multifaceted process that requires a deep understanding to find ways to improve health and longevity.

Neurodegenerative diseases have a genetic predisposition, as Ksenia Doronina notes. One of the key risk factors for Alzheimer's disease is the APOE gene. Alzheimer's-related dementia is untreatable because the toxic protein accumulation caused by this gene continues. Understanding the genetic mechanisms behind these diseases may help develop more effective prevention and treatment methods.

In cases of dementia caused by poisoning, it is possible to halt brain damage and protect neural circuits by eliminating physical sources of compounds that are harmful to cognitive function. This can help restore normal brain function and improve the patient's overall well-being.

A predisposition to the disease does not 100% guarantee its development. External factors and lifestyle play a significant role in determining the risk of developing the disease. This means you can both increase and decrease your likelihood of developing it by adjusting your habits and environmental conditions.

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Ksenia identifies several key risk factors.

• head injuries;
• depression, anxiety, and loneliness;
• smoking and alcohol abuse;
• obesity;
• chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes);
• low physical activity;
• low income and education.

It is important to note that, according to the World Health Organization, approximately 60% of dementia cases occur in people from low- and middle-income countries. This figure underscores the importance of social and economic factors in the prevention and treatment of dementia.

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The development of dementia in people with low education and income is due to several factors. Firstly, such patients are more likely to suffer from malnutrition, which negatively impacts brain health. Secondly, they live in less favorable conditions, which may include poor environmental conditions and limited access to healthcare. Furthermore, high levels of stress in everyday life also contribute to cognitive decline. All of these aspects highlight the importance of education and financial well-being for dementia prevention and mental health maintenance. Ksenia Doronina is a professional in her field, possessing extensive experience and deep knowledge. She actively develops and implements projects aimed at improving the quality of services and products. Ksenia pays special attention to detail, which allows her to achieve high results in her work. Thanks to her approach and attention to client needs, she successfully overcomes any challenges that arise in the course of her work. Her expertise and professionalism make Ksenia Doronina a sought-after specialist, capable of effectively solving problems of varying complexity.

How to reduce the risk of developing dementia?

Coping with risk factors is an important aspect of improving quality of life and reducing the likelihood of developing dementia. Ksenia Doronina offers a number of recommendations that can assist in this process. Regular physical activity improves circulation and strengthens the brain. A healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids supports cognitive function. Mental activity, including reading and solving puzzles, is also important for maintaining mental clarity. Social interactions promote emotional well-being and reduce stress, which in turn can help prevent dementia. By following these recommendations, you can improve your quality of life and reduce the risks associated with dementia.

• Get involved in one or two hobbies;
• Communicate more often with family and friends, colleagues, and the community in general;
• Eat at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day;
• Monitor your blood pressure and blood glucose levels;
• If you have chronic illnesses, take your medications regularly and follow your doctor's advice;
• Sleep 7-8 hours a day;
• Follow a Mediterranean diet (or a low-salt diet if you have hypertension).

Learn new things at any age and in any health condition. This doesn't mean you have to be a lifelong student and graduate from multiple universities. Learn foreign languages, learn friendship bracelets or the guitar, take up board games or chess. Take a history course and make a habit of visiting a new museum every two weeks. The opportunities are numerous, and many don't require a significant financial or time commitment. Enriching knowledge and skills promotes personal development and improves the quality of life.

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Photography as a creative hobby: why adults need it

Photography can become an important element of an adult's life, filling an inner emptiness and providing an opportunity for self-expression. This hobby allows you not only to develop creative skills but also to improve your overall emotional state. By engaging in photography, adults find a way to escape the daily grind, explore the world around them, and share their experiences with others.

Furthermore, photography promotes attentiveness and observation. Noticing details and seeing beauty in ordinary things enriches life and brings joy. This creative process helps adults not only capture moments but also create unique images that tell stories.

A creative hobby like photography also promotes socialization. Participating in photo shoots, exhibitions, and competitions allows you to connect with like-minded people, share experiences, and share inspiration. This creates a sense of community, which is especially important for adults seeking new connections and development.

Thus, photography as a hobby not only adds meaning to life but also promotes personal growth. It's a great way to express your emotions, experiences, and worldviews, as well as create beautiful memories that will last for years to come.

The loss of the ability to think, remember, and make decisions is alarming, as the deterioration of neural connections can lead to a loss of individuality. Although there are no effective cures for this serious disease, you can reduce anxiety by carefully examining the nature of the problem. Understanding the mechanisms behind cognitive loss can help you better prepare for possible consequences and develop strategies for maintaining mental alertness.

Visit the Alzheimer's Association website for a fascinating "tour" of the world of brain activity. The resource features an interactive brain map, where experts visualize how the disease affects the human nervous system. This information will help you better understand the mechanisms of the disease and its health consequences.

Learning about dementia is an important aspect of general development, especially for those experiencing this disease in their family. Watching loved ones lose touch with reality while remaining physically close is truly emotionally taxing. Caring for someone with dementia requires significant effort, both physically and psychologically. Understanding the characteristics of this disease will help you better support your loved ones and cope with the difficulties that arise.

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The death of a loved one is one of the most difficult trials in life. The process of grieving loss requires time and support. Above all, it is important to allow yourself to experience feelings, be it grief, anger, or sadness. Everyone experiences loss differently, and this is completely normal.

Talking with friends and family can be an important source of support. Don't hesitate to share your thoughts and emotions with those who understand. Professional help from a psychologist can also be helpful if you feel like you're overwhelmed.

Self-care is also important during this difficult time. Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep will help you maintain your physical and emotional health. Make time for activities that bring you joy, whether it's walking outdoors, reading books, or pursuing a hobby.

Remember that the grieving process is individual and doesn't fit into a strict time frame. Allow yourself to go through it at your own pace. Honor your feelings and be gentle with yourself. Over time, the pain of loss will become less acute, and you will be able to keep the memory of your loved one in your heart.

To avoid feelings of loneliness and maintain patience, gentleness, and warm memories of loved ones, it is helpful to watch films about dementia recommended by associations and centers dealing with this disease. These films lack romanticism and happy endings, but they help understand what happens to people suffering from dementia and remind us that a person’s personality is much more than their diagnosis. Such films can be a source of emotional support and understanding, which is especially important for those facing this problem in their lives.

• "The Father" (2020). The film's director, Florian Zeller, wrote the screenplay based on his personal experience: when he was 15, his grandmother, who became Zeller's surrogate mother, was diagnosed with dementia. The main roles are played by Anthony Hopkins and Olivia Colman. The film has been approved by the Alzheimer's Association;
• "The World Turned Upside Down" is a documentary film-performance created by the Alzheimer's Society. The performance features people diagnosed with dementia.
• "Supernova" (2020). Directed by Harry MacQueen, starring Stanley Tucci and Colin Firth. The film has been approved by the Long Island Alzheimer's and Dementia Center;
• "Still Alice" (2014). A linguistics professor gradually loses her memory and connection with the world, but not with her family. The film shows in detail the emotions of realizing the diagnosis and the first symptoms of the disease. The film has been approved by the Center for Retirement Studies at Boston College;
• "Away from Her" (2006). The story of a difficult decision and how the disease affects a marriage. The film is also endorsed by the Center for Retirement Studies at Boston College.