Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder which affects memory, thinking, behaviour and emotions. The condition can be caused by diseases such as Alzheimer's, vascular dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. While the disease itself is not curable, there are treatments available to help manage its effects.
One of the most common symptoms of dementia is the inability to remember recent events, with memory loss becoming more pronounced as the condition progresses. For many families dealing with dementia, one of the most difficult aspects of this is when the person with dementia forgets that a loved one has died.
How Common Is It?
It is not uncommon for people with dementia to forget a loved one has passed away. While exact figures are hard to come by, it is estimated that this happens in around 25-50% of cases. It is also important to remember that, while it can be distressing for family members, it is a normal part of the dementia journey.
How to Cope with the Situation
It can be hard for families to cope when someone with dementia does not remember that a loved one has died. It is important to remember that this is part of the condition and try not to take it personally. It can be helpful to find ways to remember the deceased person and share their memory with the person with dementia.
This could be through photographs, stories and memories, or even through activities such as baking their favourite cake. It is also important to talk to someone with dementia in a respectful way and to focus on the positive aspects of the situation. It is important to remember that the person with dementia still has feelings and is still capable of understanding.
When to Get Help
Dealing with dementia can be hard for families, and it is important to remember that you do not have to cope on your own. There are a range of services available to help families cope with the condition, including specialist dementia nurses and support groups. It is also important to seek medical advice if you are concerned about the person's wellbeing.
How to Prepare for the Future
It can also be helpful to prepare for the future, to make sure that the person with dementia is still able to enjoy life as much as possible. This could include organising activities, trips and other social events that they can enjoy. It is also important to make sure that all their medical and financial affairs are in order, to ensure that they are well looked after.
What to Do When the Person With Dementia Has Forgotten a Loved One Has Died
It can be difficult to know how to handle the situation when someone with dementia has forgotten that a loved one has died. It is important to be understanding and not to be angry or frustrated, as this is a normal part of the dementia journey. It can also be helpful to focus on the positive aspects of the situation, such as the memories and activities that can still be shared.
Conclusion
Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, behaviour and emotions. One of the most common symptoms is the inability to remember recent events, and this can include forgetting that a loved one has died. It is not uncommon for people with dementia to forget a loved one has passed away, and it is important to remember that this is part of the condition and to seek help if needed. There are ways to cope with the situation, such as focusing on the positive aspects of the situation and preparing for the future, to make sure that the person with dementia is still able to enjoy life as much as possible.