Stating that periods such as the pandemic, when social isolation increases, affect the quality of life of Alzheimer's and dementia patients, experts point out that confusion and aggressive behaviors may increase and anxiety may be triggered during this period.
Strengthening social relations with the patient is of great importance during this period. Üsküdar University NPISTANBUL Hospital Neurology Specialist Dr. Celal Şalçini stated that Alzheimer's and dementia patients are affected in different ways, especially during the pandemic process when social isolation increases.
Social isolation affects negatively
Noting that social isolation can have dramatic consequences as a result of the disruption of the routine life of dementia patients, Dr. Celal Şalçini pointed out that these patients can be negatively affected.
Dr. Celal Şalçini said, "In a study conducted in 2012 on the elderly evacuated during Hurricane Gustav in the USA in 2008, it was found that dementia patients' confusion increased, triggered anxiety, and led to outbursts and aggression."
Forced relocation exacerbates the disease
Stating that relocation also negatively affects these patients, Dr. Celal Şalçini said, "At the same time, relocation is a situation that dementia patients cannot overcome very well. Forced relocation and especially living in an unfamiliar place exacerbates the disease. Depending on these stresses, patients react differently, some refuse to eat, some lose their ability to read, and some lose their urinary and bowel habits."
Attention to the use of masks!
Pointing out that the use of masks in social isolation also causes problems, Dr. Celal Şalçini said: "The use of masks is a problem, dementia patients who already have difficulty in recognizing people have difficulty because the mask covers the face, mouth movements are not monitored and the voice volume is low. As a solution, some care centers try to provide some benefit by using photographs of people's faces as a large neck strap."
Dr. Celal Şalçini pointed out the importance of social bonding for dementia patients and said, "It is recommended that routine visits should be made behind glass if possible."