Cognitive deficits lead to in increasing inability to function autonomously, an increase in dependency on others, loss of self-esteem, and loss of a sense of mastery and control. The above study recognized the importance of the biopsychological approach. Patient's inability to understand the illness is affected by limited processing abilities and also affects psychological responses. Patients may loose the ability to initiate social interaction but not their need for it. He's just lazy, he needs more to do.
Denial often leads to anger sometimes targeted towards patient or displaced onto caregiver.
Concerns about changes in behavior, increased dependence, caregiving needs. The mortality of loved one and their own mortality. My mother now eats like an animal, grabbing and using her fingers. Restriction of caregiver's social life Sadness giving away to acceptance allows for appropriate planning, for patient, meeting needs of caretaker and facing the difficult course ahead. Much controversy remains in regard to dementing illness such as Alzheimer's Disease.