Just watched it
I've read with interest all the comments following the programme so just watched it on iplayer.
I thought there were many positive aspects, interesting research, an understanding of early stages including coping strategies (eg the use of iPad), reinforcement that it is a disease (not natural ageing). Also quite harrowing/moving accounts from those with dementia gene and early onset.
But by the end, I was thinking where is the explanation of the true reality of the symptoms as this degenerative disease progresses? There's a danger that those unfamiliar with the disease view it as primarily a loss of memory (perhaps with the exception of the account of the man whose brother had early onset and now bedridden, and also a passing comment about how dementia starts with memory, then other problems). Missing explanation of the many different types of dementia ok and how symptoms can differ greatly between individuals. Also misleading is showing the retirement villages, classes etc vs the reality of some care facilities.
Also phrases like 'reverse the effects of dementia', 'the more educated you are the lower the risk' are potentially misleading. As for 'I'd like to think I wouldn't allow the disease to take over my life' - how could this be the case if you'd witnessed someone eventually dying from dementia (coupled with which there was no explanation of final stages and how indeed this contributes to death)? Perhaps this wasn't the intention of the program, though it would make people take more notice, as unless you are experiencing it, I imagine it's all too easy to watch and then move on!
P.S. Both of my parents have Alzheimer's, presenting at different stages and with differing symptoms and behaviour.
Georgina X
I've read with interest all the comments following the programme so just watched it on iplayer.
I thought there were many positive aspects, interesting research, an understanding of early stages including coping strategies (eg the use of iPad), reinforcement that it is a disease (not natural ageing). Also quite harrowing/moving accounts from those with dementia gene and early onset.
But by the end, I was thinking where is the explanation of the true reality of the symptoms as this degenerative disease progresses? There's a danger that those unfamiliar with the disease view it as primarily a loss of memory (perhaps with the exception of the account of the man whose brother had early onset and now bedridden, and also a passing comment about how dementia starts with memory, then other problems). Missing explanation of the many different types of dementia ok and how symptoms can differ greatly between individuals. Also misleading is showing the retirement villages, classes etc vs the reality of some care facilities.
Also phrases like 'reverse the effects of dementia', 'the more educated you are the lower the risk' are potentially misleading. As for 'I'd like to think I wouldn't allow the disease to take over my life' - how could this be the case if you'd witnessed someone eventually dying from dementia (coupled with which there was no explanation of final stages and how indeed this contributes to death)? Perhaps this wasn't the intention of the program, though it would make people take more notice, as unless you are experiencing it, I imagine it's all too easy to watch and then move on!
P.S. Both of my parents have Alzheimer's, presenting at different stages and with differing symptoms and behaviour.
Georgina X