A 41 year old man who was diagnosed with Young Onset Alzheimer’s has shared what he learnt during the early stages of his shock diagnosis.
The man known as Fraser has been sharing details of his journey on YouTube including aspects such as the process leading up to his diagnosis.
While initially putting his memory problems down to stress, Fraser decided to seek medical advice and now shares his experience on social media to raise awareness.
In one clip, he said: “I know that when I got diagnosed, I was keen to hear about others’ experiences and their journey how they got diagnosed and, I guess, the processes they went through and their experiences, so I kind of figured it’d be helpful just maybe for others who are going through that process as well or are thinking about going to the doctors - this might be helpful for you.”
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After undergoing cognitive testing and blood work, Fraser had brain tests done and following his MRI and PET scan, the results showed a report that detailed a likelihood of Alzheimer's.
Offering advice to others, the YouTuber advised to make recordings if you’re struggling with your memory as a way to remember information given by medical experts.
In another video, the content creator has explained some of the things he has learnt about the early stages of a Young Onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
Fraser said: “You will be certain you have and certain you do not have it. Reducing stress in your life will have a bigger impact than you think. You will sleep during the day and wake at night.
“You will feel anxious and depressed and need help getting through it. You will downplay symptoms and exaggerate symptoms. You will be selfish and you will not follow through with your word. It will change your identity.
“You will go on holidays and spend more time with loved ones. You will take your pills but not practice your instrument enough. You will not eat that Mediterranean diet. You will not want to leave the house.
“Most evenings you will have difficulty speaking. It will affect much more than your memory. Some months you will have less foggy days. You will learn new things easier than you thought. You will not turn to God or spend your days thinking about the meaning of life.”
The YouTuber continued: “You will want to advocate. You will not think about death. You will not be scared. And everybody’s experience with dementia is different.”