There are a number of similarities in the behaviour, thinking and memory of those with early onset dementia and those who have abused alcohol or drugs. Working in a treatment centre, we often receive enquiries from the families of people who are no longer behaving ‘normally’ and are showing signs of mental health problems.
If someone is abusing alcohol and this has been going on for some time, or if someone is using drugs. It is possible that they have damaged their brain function and this could be on a temporary or permanent basis. However, it is also possible that there is nothing wrong with them beyond their abuse of alcohol and drugs. The only way to get to the bottom of what is going on for them is to first get them off the alcohol and drugs.
The symptoms of dementia which are also symptoms of alcohol or drug abuse are as follows:
Memory loss, especially short term memory. Alcoholics have periods of ‘black out’ where they cannot remember what they did the day before; they lose things – such as not remembering where they have hidden their drinks or bottles; those with dementia can have short term memory loss and misplace items while having very good longer term memory.
Verbal communication – this can be unclear from alcoholics and addicts, as well as from those with dementia
Repetition – saying the same thing or telling the same story over and over again
Lack of inhibition, being outspoken when normally the person would be quite reserved
Hallucinations or misinterpreting what they can see
Paranoia
Incontinence
Depression
Isolation
There are some signs of dementia which do not overlap with alcoholism or addiction, such as disorientation in time, space and in recognising people; problems with sequencing tasks and problems with eating and swallowing.
The Differences
Signs of alcoholism or addiction which are not usually signs of dementia include loss of appetite, poor sleep patterns, fitting (sometimes confused with epileptic fits but in the alcoholic this would be due to alcohol withdrawal), difficulty walking, and general weakness.
If the person is affected by alcoholism or addiction, all of these problems can be addressed often without permanent damage having been effected. However, sometimes longer term and permanent damage has been sustained and the brain function will never be 100% again.
Permanent Damage
Permanent damage can be caused by drug use too – cannabis can induce long term personality changes and paranoia. Some people experience long term psychosis long after they have stopped using drugs.
It is only by stopping drinking or using drugs that a proper diagnosis can be made. Sometimes in order to get to this point, the individual will need to detox and be kept safe in a rehab clinic. People with dementia are individuals who need to be treated as such. Their quality of life can still be good and though it may involve a big adjustment in the family.
The Haynes Clinic is a drug and alcohol rehab clinic offering detox and treatment for those suffering from addiction to alcohol, drugs and prescription medication.
Call 01462 851414 for confidential help and advice.
