Fact 9: Impact of Alcohol-Related Dementia on Daily Life
ARD can significantly impact a person’s daily life, affecting their ability to perform everyday tasks, maintain relationships, and participate in social activities. The cognitive impairments associated with ARD, such as memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and language issues, can make routine tasks challenging.
Individuals with ARD may struggle with tasks like managing finances, cooking, or even personal care. This loss of independence can lead to feelings of frustration and helplessness and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
ARD can also strain relationships. Changes in personality and behavior, along with the cognitive impairments, can make it difficult for loved ones to connect with the individual. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness for the person with ARD.
Social participation can also be affected by ARD. Cognitive impairments can make it challenging to engage in social activities, leading to social withdrawal. This lack of social interaction can further exacerbate the cognitive decline associated with ARD. (9)