Dementia is a general term for the loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other cognitive abilities that interferes with daily functioning. According to the Well-being of the Singapore Elderly (WiSE) study by the Institute of Mental Health, one in 10 aged 60 and above are at risk of developing dementia. With the growing ageing population in Singapore, dementia is definitely an issue that must not be overlooked.

Incidental forgetting, such as occasionally misplacing your house keys or struggling to remember the name of someone you just met, is not unusual. However, our knowledge, old memories, and language abilities remain intact. It may be an indication of dementia when these cannot be recalled.

The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for 60% to 80% of cases. Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease that is diagnosed based on medical history, brain imaging scans, blood tests and psychological assessments. Although there are medications and lifestyle changes that can help manage symptoms, there is no known cure.

Signs and Symptoms

Getting lost in a familiar neighbourhood
Using unusual words to refer to familiar objects
Forgetting the name of a close family member or friend
Forgetting old memories
Not being able to complete tasks independently

Risk Factors

Old age as most cases of dementia are in individuals aged 65 years and above
Family history of dementia
Poor heart health such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking
Traumatic brain injury

How to Care for Someone with Dementia?

✽ At Home/ For Someone You Know

Do not expect them to remember, as this will be frustrating for them
Simplify activities and communication
Encourage them to exercise daily and maintain social activities
Use adaptive equipment, such as grab bars or ramps, to make it easier for the person to get around.

✽ In Public

Even if you do not directly know someone with dementia, you may come across them in public. They may leave the house and face difficulties navigating their way home. Here are some things you can do to help:
Keep a lookout for people who demonstrate the signs and symptoms of dementia.
Patiently and clearly interact with them by asking “Can I help you?”.
If they appear lost, you can look for an identification card to find their house address or next-of-kin’s contact.
In the event of an emergency, you can call the police at 999.
Certain SMRT train stations in Singapore have Dementia Go-To-Points. You can bring individuals to these checkpoints, where trained SMRT staff will assist them in locating and reuniting with their caregivers.

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Memory and Cognitive Disorders

Gentle Start-Up in Couples Communication

What is a Gentle Start-up?

Effective communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and this holds for couples as well. A gentle start-up in communication refers to initiating a conversation with care, empathy, and respect. It’s about setting a positive tone for the discussion, which is essential in ensuring both partners feel heard and understood.

In Asian households, where communication can sometimes be perceived as harsh or direct, the concept of a “gentle start-up” may seem jarring, and unfamiliar. Traditional Asian households often prioritize directness and sometimes even bluntness in communication, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts within couples.

In fact, gentle start-up is actually aligned when the values of Asian households. Many Asian households emphasize respect towards loved ones. In such contexts, starting a conversation gently can be seen as a sign of respect, even if the content of the conversation is a complaint.

Maintaining harmony is a fundamental value within Asian households as well. A gentle start-up not only reflects respect but also serves to preserve the equilibrium within the relationship. Initiating a conversation gently reinforces the importance of the relationship. This approach communicates that the relationship is more significant than any temporary disagreement or frustration.

In Asian households, collectivism and interdependence are deeply rooted cultural values. These values emphasize the interconnectedness of the couple and the idea that their actions and words can impact the entire relationship.

The gentle start-up approach aligns with these values and aims to minimize the emotional impact of difficult moments within the family. By choosing a more respectful and considerate tone, family members can navigate challenging conversations with minimal emotional harm, ultimately promoting healthier and more harmonious family dynamics.

Benefits of Gentle Start-Ups:

Enhanced Understanding:
- Initiating a conversation gently allows both partners to approach the topic with an open mind, fostering better understanding and empathy.
Reduced Defensiveness:
- A harsh start to a conversation can trigger defensiveness, making it challenging to resolve issues. A gentle start-up can minimize this defensiveness, leading to more productive discussions.
Conflict Resolution:
- By using a gentle approach, couples can create a safe space for addressing concerns and resolving conflicts constructively.

In Asian households, the importance of gentle start-ups in couples’ communication becomes evident when considering the cultural dynamics at play. While directness and bluntness have their place, employing a gentle approach can foster understanding, reduce defensiveness, and facilitate healthy conflict resolution. It’s a harmonious blend of traditional values and effective communication techniques that can lead to stronger, more resilient relationships in the context of diverse Asian households.

Dementia

Signs and Symptoms

Risk Factors