Reaction to a Dementia Diagnosis in Individuals with Alzheimer's Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment

Abstract

Disclosure of a dementia diagnosis does not prompt a catastrophic emotional reaction in most people, even those who are only mildly impaired, and may provide some relief once an explanation for symptoms is known and a treatment plan is developed.

Diagnosis and treatment of dementia: 5. Nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic therapy for mild to moderate dementia

“…I was informed of her diagnosis, which might help in relieving some of her anxiety. 60 Her husband is instructed in general ways that might help with her anxiety, such as having a predictable routine to the day, simplifying tasks, reducing excess stimulation, and following the 3 R's (repeat, reassure and redirect). 61 For her insomnia, Mrs.…”

Comunicación diagnóstica en enfermedad de Alzheimer: Reflexión y propuesta

“…Un estudio sobre discusión de diagnóstico de demencia con el paciente, no mostró que se gatillara una reacción emocional catastrófi ca al saber el diagnóstico, incluso podía ser un factor de reducción de ansiedad al tener una explicación de los síntomas y proveer un plan de tratamiento 25 .…”

Breaking bad news to people with learning disabilities and dementia

“…It is widely understood that the way bad news is communicated can have a significant impact on the way patients and families adjust to serious illness. It has been found that dementia patients in the general population don't experience a catastrophic emotional reaction when they are told their diagnosis; rather, they experience relief that there is an explanation for their symptoms and that a treatment plan can be developed (Carpenter et al 2008). There is no reason to believe that this would be any different for people with learning disabilities (Watchman 2013).…”