Even when memory loss and confusion escalate throughout the end stages of Alzheimer’s, there’s a fascinating and welcome reprieve that often occurs. Previously termed “terminal lucidity,” it’s more commonly referred to now as “paradoxical lucidity.” It signifies an unexpected, temporary regaining of clarity to a nearly pre-dementia state of mind. During this time period, the effects can vary from nonverbal but emotional connections to noteworthy cognitive recovery.
For friends and family, it is a gift to be cherished. It provides the opportunity for meaningful reminiscing and conversations, along with the mutual sharing of thoughts and feelings, if only for a brief period of time. For medical researchers, it means much more.
Dr. Basil Eldadah, supervisory medical officer in the Division of Geriatrics and Clinical Gerontology at the US National Institute on Aging, views the opportunities as incredible. “It gives us some pause with regard to our current theories and understanding about the nature of dementia. We’ve seen enough examples of this to be reassured that dementia can be reversed – albeit temporarily, very transiently – nevertheless, it does reverse. And so, the question then is how.”
There are currently 6 research projects underway to answer that very question, and to gain more detailed insight to the condition and investigate future therapeutic approaches. According to preliminary data from the studies, it is clear that it is an even more frequent phenomenon than realized previously. Dr. Sam Parnia, lead researcher and critical care doctor, pulmonologist, and associate professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center shares, “If you talk to hospice nurses and palliative care doctors, they all know about this. But no one’s ever studied it properly because no one ever thought anyone would take it seriously enough. So, what I wanted to do is to help move this into the scientific realm.”
Education for families caring for a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s is also critical. It’s important to realize that this temporary clarity may occur, allowing for the opportunity to reconnect with the older adult, while understanding that it isn’t indicative of improvement in his or her condition.
For additional dementia educational materials and care resources, reach out to Independence-4-Seniors Home Care. We are also always available to provide customized in-home dementia care in order to make life the best it can be for those with dementia and also the families who love them, through services including:
- Memory-stimulating games, conversations, activities, and reminiscing
- Knowledgeable, compassionate help with the distinct challenges of dementia, for example, aggression, wandering, sundowning, and more
- Help with safe bathing as well as other personal care needs
- Household chores and meals to enable family members to relish more high-quality time with the older adult they love
- And more
Reach out to us at (630) 323-4665 to discover how we provide the kind of dementia care Westmont and other nearby areas choose first. Our care team is here to provide the best possible quality of life for a senior you adore with dementia.