Anosognosia: The Complicated Condition That Affects Most Dementia Patients

Coping with dementia presents significant hurdles for both individuals diagnosed and those who care for them.

Anosognosia means "without knowledge of disease"; it's a neurological condition where the brain can't recognize its cognitive or psychiatric illness.

Anosognosia is common in a number of neurological diseases and affects approximately 95% of early-onset dementia patients and 98% of late-onset dementia patients1, according to a 2021 Frontiers in Psychiatry article. 

It's important to help your loved one experience independence when it's safe for them to do so. In other words, if they're able to do something without harming themselves, let them have that moment of self-sufficiency. 

You can also suggest taking on activities (like cooking, cleaning, and errands) together, so they don't feel as though you're taking over or stepping on their toes. After all, how would you feel if people tried to do things for you that you've always been (and still are, in your mind) capable of doing? 

When they become frustrated, sad, angry, or overwhelmed, acknowledging their emotions (rather than using logic) can help defuse the situation. And above all, don't take things personally—they aren't in control of their cognitive function, and their brain struggles to make connections the way it once did.

Anosognosia can look a lot like stubbornness and/or denial, but know it's a real condition that can make dementia symptoms that much more overwhelming. The 2021 Frontiers in Psychiatry article notes that anosognosia has been shown to increase over time with dementia progression and is more prevalent in dementia and Alzheimer's disease variants that impact the frontal lobe.

The measures for preventing the development or progression of anosognosia are similar to dementia-preventing tips: Maintain a healthy body composition, eat a well-balanced diet, and engage in physical activity regularly. 

Up to 98% of dementia patients have a concurrent neurological condition called anosognosia, which makes it difficult for them to remember or be fully aware of their illness.