The diagnosis and journey of Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive disorders is challenging. Dealing with a new normal and embracing the individual is of utmost importance.
For nearly all of my professional life I have worked toward answers to the complex problems of diseases, whether Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive diseases. It is a daily challenge, but small steps lead to solutions.
In my journey, I am also aware that embracing individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families is a battle I wage in addition to working towards a cure. One challenge, is the complex issue of stigma and combatting the societal idea of "normal"? Societal norms rarely look favorably on differences, including ones that manifest with a serious diagnosis. Changes in an individual might be perceived as weakness or deficiency. Because fear of dealing with the unknown is often strong, if given the choice, many distance themselves. This act of distancing is likely a reaction to fear, not knowing the right way to act, or fear of saying or doing the wrong thing. Leaning into kindness and compassion is always the best pathway.
We might ask also ourselves one question: what is normal anyway, and who among us can claim that tag? After all, individuality is what makes each of us unique, special, cherished and irreplaceable. Normal cannot really be defined and who would want to define it? No one would want a family, community, or world of universal sameness. An illness might result in changes in an individual, but that person is nonetheless the same, unique and wonderful person. It is time to rethink definitions of normal. In doing so let go of negative beliefs and erase stigmas. In the context of AD and other cognitive diseases, for individuals and loved ones touched by the diagnoses, acceptance without stigmas would be remarkable progress and a relief. So, how do we get there?
Rethinking normal begins with each of us. No one is guaranteed life without challenge, pain, suffering or obstacle. And not one of us can honestly declare a life without obstacle, pain, or suffering. In fact, we all share these aspects of our humanity, including one of the most difficult tests, diagnosis and coping with disease, whether as one affected, or as one touched by the disease as a loved one or as an onlooker. Perhaps illness tests our acceptance of "norms" in a most trying way.
The path of gradual cognitive change that results from an illness is undoubtedly terrifying and challenging. It presents with changes that are outwardly noticeable, involuntary and counter the societal definition of normal. Let's work to redefine it. Let's move to acceptance of those who most need our support.
There is tremendous strength, dignity and virtue that also accompanies the diagnosis. Let us embrace each individual in the moment, who is still the same incredible individual, and help others to do so as well through inclusion, open discussion and courageous conversations.
I am confident that cures for every disease are within our grasp. In tandem, and of equal importance, I am confident in the progress of tolerance, unraveling negative perceptions, and acceptance of an ever-changing "normal". It begins within each of us, within our hearts, and in how we treat others. Love and kindness are limitless if we make that choice.
For more information on support groups, reach out to your local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. Or connect with other great resources, National Institute on Aging or American Federation for Aging Research.
Domenico Praticò, MD, holds the position of the Scott Richards North Star Charitable Foundation Chair for Alzheimer’s Research and serves as a Professor and the Founding Director at the Alzheimer’s Center at Temple, as well as a Professor of Neural Sciences at Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University.
For more information on the research conducted by Dr. Domenico Pratico, please visit this link.
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Stay updated with the work happening at Dr. Domenico Pratico's lab by visiting the Pratico Lab website.
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