Even when confusion and memory loss escalate throughout the progression of Alzheimer’s, there is a fascinating and pleasant reprieve that often occurs. Formerly coined “terminal lucidity,” more frequently known as “paradoxical lucidity.” It represents an unexpected, short-term return of clarity to an almost pre-dementia state of mind in the end stage of dementia. The effects can consist of nonverbal but emotional connections to substantial cognitive recovery during this time.
For friends and family, it’s a special gift to be cherished. It gives the opportunity for meaningful reminiscing and conversations and the mutual sharing of thoughts and feelings, if only for a brief period. But, for researchers, it means a lot more.
Dr. Basil Eldadah, supervisory medical officer at the Division of Geriatrics and Clinical Gerontology at the US National Institute on Aging, views the opportunities as remarkable. “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 six scientific studies underway to answer that very question, gain more detailed insight into the condition, and explore future therapeutic approaches. As documented in preliminary data from the studies, it’s clear that it is a far 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 help move this into the scientific realm.”
Education for families caring for a senior with Alzheimer’s is also essential. It is necessary to know that this short-lived clarity may happen, allowing for the opportunity to reconnect with the senior while understanding that it’s not indicative of improvement in their condition.
For more Alzheimer’s care resources and educational materials, connect with Modern Health Home Care, the top providers of Philadelphia dementia help. We are also always available to provide specialized in-home dementia care to help make life the very best it can be for people with Alzheimer’s and the families who love them through services including:
Memory-stimulating games, activities, conversations, and reminiscing
Specialized, compassionate assistance with the distinctive challenges of dementia, such as aggression, wandering, sundowning, and so much more
Help with safe bathing along with other personal care needs
Household chores and meals enable family members to relish more high-quality time with the older adult they love
And so much more
Call us at 215.995.2012 to discover the best possible quality of life for someone you love with dementia.
Comments