Why is it important to view dementia as a disability?

Question

Why is it important to view dementia as a disability?

Answer 1

It is important that the elderly are protected from being forced into a nursing home by relatives for dishonest reasons.

The state laws usually have no real protection for the elderly, in Indiana the elderly have as little as two days notice to appear before a judge, with the relative making the complaint (request) who brings a doctor they paid to examine the old person. An attorny to defend the elderly is 'allowed' but not required.

When put in, the relative is made in control of the elderly person's finances, so they cannot get a lawyer, and is usually forced on meds to make their mind into a fog, if it was not already.

There are people with dementia in nursing homes, but there are many who were forced in under dishonest circumstances.

Its an industry, just like the cattle and pork industry.

Answer 2

What would you call it? an aptitude?

A demented patient needs the protection provided by laws pertaining to disabled persons.  A severely demented patient is totally unable to care for themself, make sound judgements, etc. They may have assets which must be protected.  They have to be protected from abuse. By identifying them as disabled, they are protected by law. It does not always work, but that is the intent.

Answer 3

because it can get really bad to the point where people don't know what going on anymore

Answer 4

Because it gets in the way of the quality of life, inhibits comprehension.