EP 54 :: Ambiguous Loss :: Lori Nisson, LCSW

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Bobbi and Mike talk with Lori Nisson, LCSW, about ambiguous loss and how it leaves a person searching for answers, thus complicating and delaying the process of grieving, which often results in unresolved grief.

“Caring for someone with dementia can create an ongoing awareness of loss as the person with it is present but physically different from who they once were,” Lori says.

Ambiguous loss is a familiar experience for many care partners and families living with and/or caring for a person with dementia, even if they don’t know it. Being prepared to identify, address, and respond to ambiguous loss is an important facet of dementia services.

Lori Nisson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has spent more than 20 years specializing in leadership and clinical positions supporting the needs of patients and families coping with emotional, movement, memory, and behavioral problems. 

“I think for all families, whether their loved one is in early, moderate, or advanced stages of dementia, the key is to understand the changes that come with the disease. What to expect, when, and the critical importance of getting support and resources as the disease progresses.” Lori says.

“There's this lack of awareness by your loved one, so the family often thinks that the person is in denial of the disease. Denial is something that happens when you're drinking a lot of alcohol and hiding it. You know that you're drinking too much and it's becoming a problem, but you're hiding it from other people. This is different, as there's actually a psychological term called “anosognosia,” and it means that you just have absolutely no awareness into the problem,” Lori explains. “And that's because this is a brain disease. It affects your frontal lobes so that your ability to have good judgment, good insight, and awareness is impaired.”

You can find out more about ambiguous loss, Lori, and Banner Alzheimer Institute on their Facebook page and website.

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