5. Sensory Impairments – The Unseen Battle of HAND
HAND doesn’t limit its reach to cognitive and motor functions alone; it extends its impact into the realm of sensory perception as well. Akin to other symptoms, sensory impairments in HAND are often subtle at the onset and can be easily overlooked.
The individual might start experiencing difficulty in distinguishing between different tastes or smells. Simple pleasures like the aroma of a freshly brewed cup of coffee or the flavor of a favorite dish may start losing their appeal, leaving the individual puzzled.
As HAND progresses, the person may report changes in their visual or auditory perception. They might find it hard to adapt to changes in light levels, struggle with depth perception, or report an increase in sensitivity to sounds. In more severe cases, the individual may face challenges in identifying objects based on touch or struggle to recognize objects’ positions in space.
The battle with sensory impairments is often an unseen one, silently chipping away at the individual’s quality of life. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking early intervention can help combat the sensory changes brought on by HAND, enabling the person to maintain a better grip on their sensory world. (5)
