psvamed -I have many patients with many forms of cognitive impairment - I would love to know more about your use of coconut oil - what is the dose and frequency? As a hospice nurse I understand that my patients are in the last phase of their lives but I am of the mindset that my first priority is to promote quality of life. If I can make med changes that will give a person a week - a month - or even more to improve life for my patients and families I get very excited.psavmd wrote:I am a surgeon. My father-in-law suffers from this illness. 3 years ago, he was very near death. He could not swallow his own secretions. He is on aricept and namenda. I started him on large doses of coconut oil and he made a 180 degree turn around and is still alive today. The science behind coconut oil makes perfect sense. Coconut oil is converted to ketones which supplies the brain with food and keep it functioning. I hope this gets to Mr. Campbell's family.
I also watched Glen's story last night and was so sad. I see the same symptoms of decline in all of my patients - some with Alzheimer's, a lot with Vascular Dementia, a few with Fronto-temporal lobe dementia and, as another mentioned Lewy Body dementia. The common denominator is cognitive impairment but each have their own little "quirks." I think it's so important to know the specific disease so we can prepare the families for what lies ahead. It's difficult to have everyone just 'lumped' into a dementia diagnosis. Some of my patients have become non-verbal, others don't remember how to chew and swallow food and fluids, others have lost the ability to walk. The symptoms go on and on as I don't need to tell any of you here.
I have loved Glen and his music, his TV show, and his phenomenal musical talent with his guitar. I'm sure I wasn't alone in the beginning of the film wondering why the family would have him perform at all the concerts with his declining status. I changed my mind when I saw Glen refusing a shower and then a few hours later performing. I have used music therapy with my patients but now feel I have not put enough focus on it. I will now make a more conscious effort to reach my patients with music as it is the universal language.
Hugs to Glen, his family, and all who are dealing with cognitive decline of any nature. There but for the grace of God go I ---- for now! Who knows what the future holds!