Stages of Denial and Acceptance of an Alzheimer's Diagnosis

When someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, they undergo varying periods of acceptance and denial. They don't want to think or do anything about it. No one can blame them. They've just been handed a life sentence of uncertainty. When do they stop recognizing loved ones? How will they cope? They don't want to think about the eventual possibility of going to a nursing home. These questions and behaviors are a normal part of understanding and dealing with the diagnosis of Alzheimer's. If everyone touched by this diagnosis - the person with the disease, family, caregivers - understands these stages, then they can better handle the disease with a sense of decorum and support.

Denial is the first stage to accepting Alzheimer's. When they first hear the words, they don't want to believe it. They may go on through the days and upcoming weeks by not talking about it or making plans for activities, even when there is the chance that those activities might not happen. This denial is normal and can be acceptable within reason. For many people, this is their way to absorb the news. They need that time to wrap their minds around it while they still can.

Part of this denial phase is that they might not want to tell friends and family about it. From TV shows and rumor, there is always this stereotype of Alzheimer's patients, whether it is feeble simple-mindedness to violent or aggressive behavior. These stereotypes can color people's perceptions about the disease. The trouble with stereotypes is that they do not fit everyone. The stigma of the diagnosis also weighs in. Some friends and family, upon hearing the news, may unconsciously pull away from their loved ones afflicted with the disease.

Fear of the unknown also plays a factor of the denial and acceptance of Alzheimer's disease. Everyone knows that dying is part of human nature, but when the future is uncertain, it can provide an uneasiness and fear. The fear is not that they will eventually die, but that they will lose who they are in the process. Because early diagnosis is of key importance, the progression of Alzheimer's can take years if diet and lifestyle changes are implemented. This time is important to the adjustment of having the disease. Taking things one step at a time is vital to acceptance.

A sense of losing oneself is important to understand in the diagnosis of the disease. Someone may once have been the head of a household and now with progressing Alzheimer's their "position" is affected. This can cause a major blow to one's sense of importance and their self-esteem. They want things to stay the same, but the reality of the situation does not afford this luxury. By keeping the person engaged on a daily basis and having a say in certain things goes a long way in retaining that self-dignity for as long as possible.

Every person diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease has a right as to how their life and treatment will be dictated. While denial can be beneficial in coming to terms with the disease, letting it go on too long can be hazardous to their health. It is up to the person's loved ones to help them make some important decisions as to their future care as well as any legal issues to content with. Once some of these important decisions are made, it is ok to take things one day at a time because each day will bring new joy and challenges. Patience, understanding and care from loved ones along with active engagements and involvement can make all the difference as Alzheimer's takes hold.