4 minute read
HELP by Jackie Rankin
Actor Stephen Graham’s graphic and poignant portrayal of a young man with early onset Alzheimer’s gave us an insight into the condition.
Around 42,000 people under 65 are living with dementia – some are just 20 years old. It can take up to four years to diagnose, with symptoms often attributed to stress, anxiety, depression or menopause.
A specialist dementia nurse shares her own story – and tells how help is at hand.
Channel 4’s proclaimed pandemic themed drama Help has been described as ‘one of the most evocative and harrowing depictions of recent history’.
The two part series documents often distressing account of events in a fictional care home during the first weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic. An equally powerful sub plot unveils a compassionate relationship between rookie care home worker Sarah (Jodie Comer) and Tony (Stephen Graham) a young man with Alzheimer’s disease (pictured above).
Scenes show Tony’s constant swing from lucidity to confusion and back – and the need for carers understand the complexities of the condition. It’s a certain bet for a gong in 2022.
Dementia nurse Cherylnn Harper (pictured right) knows better than most the shock and ensuing dilemma that a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s brings at any age, but especially for the young.
Several of her patients are in their 40s – one was just 20 years old when the diagnosis was delivered. Many are still working, paying mortgages and in disbelief at their situation.
She’s also ‘been there’ herself. Cheryl’s dad was well known Merseyside boxer Robbie Davies.
“My dad had always been forgetful, but the signs became more obvious; he’d phone and tell me a tale, then call again ten minutes later with the same tale.
“I couldn’t tell him my suspicions so I asked GP to raise the subject. They did a mini memory test and referred him to dementia services.
Dementia Nurse Cherlynn Harper as a child with her dad Robbie who developed Alzheimer’s at 63.
“I know how difficult it can be for carers to stay patient. I was balancing long days, shift patterns and family life with travelling to look after my dad. I was the nurse in the family so it was assumed I’d know what to do, but it’s different when it’s your dad.
Stephen Graham played a care home resident with young onset Alzheimer’s disease in Channel 4’s drama Help.
Channel 4
“His personality changed and that was hard to take. He’d say things he’d never had said before. I’d try to laugh it off but sometimes I’d get angry with him – I wish I hadn’t but dementia takes its toll on carers too. That’s why I always tell people to get as much help as they can.”
She’s avidly learning so she can pass on latest information and bust myths.
“There’s a perception that dementia is just memory loss, but there are so many types and symptoms. I can help families understand what’s happening and offer ways of coping.”
She acknowledges there can be long waits and endless tests to get a firm diagnosis, but says it’s vital to be certain, especially with younger people.
“I have patients who are still in full time work; they have mortgages, bills to pay and jobs to hold down. We need to get it right.
Young Onset Dementia nurse Cherylnn Harper says there’s planty of help and support after a diagnosis of Alzheimers.
Joel Goodman
“It is a shock, but younger people are keen to get back to normal life. They know I’m here for them and that’s often enough. I’ll call or meet them during their lunchbreak, or chat on Zoom. I’ll arrange psychological therapy, or I might help them approach their employers to ask for adjustments so they can carry on working.
“I offer practical ideas that can give someone independence – like having a clock that tells day and night and what day it is. Keep life as normal as you can and keep in touch with friends.”
She’s full of praise for the dementia service post diagnostic support groups. “They’re brilliant. You can talk to professionals but you’ll also meet service users and carers who can help you. It’s a lovely friendly atmosphere.”
The biggest question carers ask Cheryl is what the future might hold. “I really don’t
know - it’s different for everyone. What I do say to people is you can have a fulfilling life after your diagnosis. Let’s concentrate on the here and now, and if things change we’ll be here for you’”.
FIND OUT MORE
For information about Mersey Care’s dementia services visit: merseycare.nhs.uk
Find more help go to:
NHS UK – nhs.uk
Alzheimer’s Society – alzheimers.org.uk
Dementia UK – dementiauk.org
Age UK – ageuk.org.uk
