A condition for people with Alzheimer’s is called sunsetting. I experienced it with Allen (dad) a few years prior to his diagnosis. It’s similar to nap time. As much as I love naps I avoid them since I’m obsessed with inheriting this horrific medical condition. My DNA and Allen’s are similar across the dashboard including looks, demeanor, likes and dislikes. I like naps and dislike sunsetting. It’s an early stage of Alzheimer’s. Not the way I want to check out. Being trapped and alone with thoughts you can’t express.
I pay attention to the progress in treating and/or eliminating this disease. I was surprised to find out that Alzheimer’s isn’t considered to be a mental health issue.
It’s strictly medical: a brain disease
So how can losing your mind not be a mental issue? According to Mental Health America, incidences of anxiety and depression have reached an all-time high due to the pandemic. Americans are more isolated and isolation = loneliness. While people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s may display traits of mental illness, Alzheimer’s is more accurately defined as a brain disease, a progressive neurodegenerative condition.
The progression of Alzheimer’s leads to memory loss, the ability to reason and make sound decisions. A person with Alzheimer’s loses the ability to communicate effectively and perform simple tasks. They too experience loneliness. Their receptors are blocked. The blue cells block the yellow cells from connecting to each other.
Treatable not curable. You can slow its progression down but can’t avoid the inevitable.
(NOT YET)