Alzheimer’s Society issue guidance following EastEnders’ VE Day dementia scenes

Alzheimer’s Society issues expert advice on how to support someone if they are time-shifting…

In Thursday night’s episode of EastEnders, Nigel (Paul Bradley), who has been diagnosed with young onset dementia – where a person develops dementia before the age of 65 – believes he’s in 1995, as a result of experiencing a symptom of dementia called time-shifting. Over 70,800 people in the UK are living with young-onset dementia.

Following the VE Day edition the Alzheimer’s Society has provided ATV Today Health an overview on what time-shifting is and how to support someone who is experiencing time-shifting.

What is time shifting?

Time-shifting is when a person with dementia may seem to be experiencing a different reality to you. This could present itself as not understanding what recent technology is or does, not recognising family or friends, or thinking someone who has died is still alive. They may not even recognise their own reflection.

How to support someone who is time shifting

Angelo Makri, Senior Knowledge Officer at Alzheimer’s Society, offers advice on how to support someone who is time-shifting.

“I would advise the carer to stay calm, open and friendly. It can be very upsetting for person with dementia if you try to correct them. So, if they are happy and content, it is best to just focus on what would make them feel most comfortable. Often you won’t be able to convince them to recognise their current situation or that time-shifting is not logical. Below are some tips on how best to manage the situation.”

Try to remember that what the person perceives is as real to them as your reality is to you. Time-shifting is due to damage to the brain and it’s not a choice. When you enter the room, let them know who you are. This helps prevent confusion and them mistaking you for someone from their past.

Try and understand their reality and acknowledge their worries. Try not to contradict their experience. They shouldn’t be told what is true in a confrontational manner. The person with dementia doesn’t need to fully understand your reality for them to feel happy, so continue to try and do what makes them feel content.

What are the signs and symptoms of dementia?

Each person experiences dementia in their own individual way. Different types of dementia also affect people differently, especially in the early stages. There are, however, some common early signs and symptoms of dementia, including:

Memory Loss
Difficulty concentrating, planning or organising
Problems with language and communication
Misunderstanding what is being seen
Being confused about time or place
Mood changes or difficulty controlling emotions

It may be upsetting to witness someone you love no longer recognising themselves or getting easily confused. If you need support, please contact our Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456, or visit alzheimers.org.uk

The episode of EastEnders is available on the BBC iPlayer.