This is the first outline for the Stages of Decline series. Our experiences as a dementia patient and caregiver spouse are condensed into bullet points to provide helpful insights. After presenting outlines for the twelve themes of the series, video podcasts will then cover each theme in a more entertaining and informational format. Please subscribe to this blog to be alerted to each post and to help generate search engine publicity for the series.
People naturally think that early onset dementia begins with cognitive decline, but there are earlier warning signs in regards to behavioral changes in how people respond to stress. These TRIALS bullet points covers the unfortunate behavioral changes and conditions that in hindsight signaled the beginning of early onset.
- Work conditions created chronic stress for Cindy.
- Personal events added a tipping point to chronic stress.
- Cindy’s personality was not conducive to handling stress.
- Cindy likely has a genetic predisposition for dementia as well, causing early onset.
- Doctors misdiagnosed Cindy at the start, claiming she was too young.
- One diagnosis misjudged Cindy’s personality and possibly made things worse.
The most important lesson from these bullet points is to identify and minimize the stress in your life. How you or a loved one is handling stress may be an indicator of cognitive decline around the corner. The next installment in the series will be “Behavioral Decline – The Triumphs.” The video podcast of this installment will be posted in a few months. Please subscribe.
Hi Kirk, Your first hand experience is a great platform for this series. I think it will help many people.I believe I am already subscribed. If not please let me know. Hug Cindy for me will ya
Will do.