An ecopsychosocial approach to cognitive decline
A new paradigm for treating cognitive decline
Currently, hundreds of millions of dollars are being raised and used to fine a "cure" for Alzheimer's disease and other causes of dementia. Walks are organized, benefit golf tournaments are popular, tribute donations are available and even funding from the US government in billions of dollars are all reputable efforts to finding a treatment for cognitive decline. Unfortunately, after over three decades of research, and billions fo dollars, there is still no cure. Medications have been introduced to "manage the symptoms," but often the side effects, exuberant costs, and the minimal benefits, families continue to wait, hanging their hat and hope that the "cure" is just around the corner.
This "medical model" for treating neurocognitive disorders focusses on what is "wrong" with the person, and not necessarily what the person, or the family really needs. Many healthcare professionals have low expectations of the overall outcome, and do not encourage individuals, families, or friends to explore other treatment options. Frequently, after a diagnosis, which is often delayed due to the stigma around "dementia," physicians and specialist only suggest medications for the individual, support groups for the family members and will gladly schedule a follow up appointment months out.
Focusing on the deficits of a person with cognitive decline, or any disability, the person will experience prejudices, discrimination, and isolation. We believe a strengths base approach, and focusing on what the person can do. The "social model" for supporting people living with cognitive decline suggests that society and stigma ate the barriers in the person being unable to truly live their full potential and a life of quality while living with a neurogognitive disorder.
Society and peoples attitudes and misperceptions of a person diagnosed with a type of dementia, is likely the biggest barrier for people living with a neurocogntive disorder to maintain a job, live more independently, and maintain autonomy with opportunities for making choices.
Overcoming the stigma
Families and friends play a crucial role in the timing of a diagnosis that effects the outcome of the persons quality of life. Negative attitudes about a people living with a neurocognitive disorder such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease due to the lack of knowledge, prejudices, and discrimination evokes fear, shame, and delays a timely treatment approach. When faced with a "stigma" such as poverty, depression, or mental illness, the ability to "imagine" how a person thinks and feels, by putting themselves in the person shoe's, can be effective in reducing the beliefs of that stigma. We believe that "imagined contact" can also influence how we perceive people living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease and reduce the stigma for the individual, family and friends, and encourage a healthier and more optimistic outcome for learning to live with a neurocognitive disorder.
Addressing Cognitive Needs
Communication Trainings
Family Relationships
Addressing Expressive Needs
Person/Family Centered Approach
Promoting Independence
Maintaining and Creating Purpose