Unexpected dementia diagnosis side effect? [SHOCKING]

If you or a loved one has been told you have dementia you know that the swirling gamut of emotions is like being hit by a tornado.

Suddenly, your life snowballs into a series of “what ifs” … and becomes a race against the clock to preserve precious memories.

Unfortunately, a new study has uncovered another dark side of a dementia diagnosis…

That has NOTHING to do with memory loss!

It’s a DEADLY effect that not only impacts the person diagnosed… but their friends and family, too.

Today, I’m here to share the latest sobering consequence of a dementia diagnosis… and tell you steps you can take NOW to ensure it doesn’t spiral.

A new study out of the United Kingdom has found that folks diagnosed with early onset dementia PRIOR to age 65 are up to SEVEN TIMES more likely to commit suicide.

Let that sink in…

This is sad… heartbreaking… and sobering news for a disease that has no cure.

But a dementia diagnosis does not and should not cause anyone to feel as though their life needs come to an early end.

If you, or a loved one, have recently received a dementia diagnosis and are battling with feelings of depression, I urge you to talk to your doctor.

And if there is ever any mention of suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately.

Dialing 988 on your phone immediately connects you to someone in your area that can assist in a mental health emergency. There is also a 988 website with additional resources.

Additionally, there are preventative measures that can help slow the progression of the disease, if you are diagnosed.

One of the easiest is increasing your social interaction. Studies have found that it can help decrease the rapid progression of dementia.

Social interaction with friends, family, and neighbors is like exercise for the brain and important for overall brain function. In fact, a CDC study found that social ISOLATION was associated with a nearly 50% increase in the risk of dementia.

But, the good news is that multiple studies have found that increased socialization is preventative for depression – which could trigger thoughts of suicide.

That means family get-togethers, card games with your friends, and going out to lunch or dinner and being surrounded by people can all help stimulate your mind.

Remember, this ISN’T a cure for dementia… but a proven way to help live with the disease without it stripping away your quality of life.

To staying positive,
Sarah Reagan

Sources:

Study Finds. “People with early onset dementia 7 times more likely to die from suicide.” https://studyfinds.org/early-onset-dementia-suicide/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked to Serious Health Conditions.” https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html