Stages of Huntington’s Disease – Part 3
In the first two blogs, we discussed what Huntington’s disease is and how to help older adults suffering from it. Today, we will discuss in more detail the manifestations of Huntington’s and how the disease progresses (its stages).
Cognitive decline and neurological issues amongst older adults who have Huntington’s disease can become more pronounced. These changes then affect and create memory, problem-solving, and decision-making issues. Therefore, one can already see the major symptoms and issues that Huntington’s can cause among older adults. As previously discussed, however, these are not the only issues that emerge, as older adults will suffer from major physical challenges that affect their quality of life and autonomy. The above symptoms of cognitive impairment, interlined with the physical issues, can significantly impact the older adult’s independent functioning. Consequently, mental health issues such as increased anger and frustration, low mood (or depression), anxiety problems and fear or trauma can emerge amongst older adults, thus complicating their holistic well-being even more and compromising their quality of life.
Three different stages
Generally, Huntington’s progresses across three stages. In the initial stages (called Early stage), individuals still retain a lot of their independent functioning and autonomous living. They are able to live their lives mostly as usual, including operating and engaging in normative decision-making. At this stage, however, some minor noticeable symptoms emerge, such as noticing uncontrollable movements or jerks, exhibiting coordination issues, and appearing slightly more irritable or frustrated.
In the middle stage, a more pronounced loss of independence appears. For example, the older adult may be unable to drive or handle their own money. They may still be able to engage in daily living activities like washing themselves, but more complex functions will become more difficult for the person suffering from the disease. Individuals may start to lose balance more often, increasing the risk of a fall or injury. Weight loss is also pronounced, and sufferers may have difficulty making coherent decisions.
In the end stage, constant care is needed, and often, older adults with Huntington’s end up becoming bedbound. Communication difficulties become much more pronounced, with older adults unable to effectively communicate their feelings or thoughts. The involuntary movements will become more difficult to control. Here, caregiving is needed almost 24/7.
Mr Yaser Teebi works as a Clinical Psychologist and Gerontologist at Willingness and works with patients with complex issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, grief and cognitive impairment. Mr Teebi has graduated from the following degrees with Merit: Bachelor of Psychology (Hons), a Master of Gerontology and Geriatrics , and a Master of Psychology in Clinical Psychology, all at the University of Malta. He is currently reading for a PhD in Clinical Psychology and Geriatrics at the University of Birmingham.
