MakatiMed shares perplexing yet very real ghost-related disorders

 

Who’s afraid of the Ghost Month? Apparently, many are. In many Eastern and Southeast Asian countries, the seventh lunar month, which often falls within August, is the time when the souls of our dearly departed leave the gates of hell to pay us a visit. During this period (for 2025, it starts on August 23 and ends September 21), we are advised to put off making major decisions like starting a business, buying a house, postponing medical treatments, or getting married to avoid upsetting restless spirits.

But what if the “ghosts” aren’t supernatural entities but conditions that manifest in real, yet often misunderstood, ways? In a different vein, people diagnosed with “ghostly” conditions face numerous challenges as they live with their unusual (but real!) disorders. 

Jon Edward B. Jurilla, MD from top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) enumerates four “ghost”-related conditions and how they are treated.

Phasmophobia is defined as the extreme and irrational fear of ghosts. Pop star Lady Gaga, who reportedly had phasmophobia, was said to have spent $50,000 on a device that detects ghosts in a room. Those with this condition manifest the disorder through an elevated hear trate and blood pressure, intense anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. “In fact, some fear darkness and nighttime. Being alone or sleeping alone is a frightening thought,” reveals Dr. Jurilla. Behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and relaxation techniques are effective in addressing this phobia.

Ghost sickness supposedly happens when the spirit of a recently deceased loved one supposedly attaches itself to a member of the living, thus sucking the life out of them or causing them harm. A common belief among Polynesians and Native Americans, this disorder presents itself through lethargy, nightmares, hallucinations, nausea, and a loss of appetite.

“Medications can ease the symptoms, but not the ‘ghost sickness’ itself, or the belief that a ghost is behind the symptoms,” explains Dr. Jurilla. “For us in the field of medicine, lethargy and loss of appetite, especially following the loss of a loved one, may be due to intense grief and sadness, and not necessarily caused by a ghost.”

A person suffering from Capgras delusion is convinced that a family member or close friend is an impostor. “The patient becomes agitated and aggressive in the presence of the ‘impostor’ and refuses to believe they are anything but,” shares Dr. Jurilla. Caused either by a brain injury (which imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI can confirm), mental health disorder (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder), or neurological condition (Alzheimer’s disease, dementia), Capgras delusion is treated with anti-psychotic medication.

Hypochondriasis and Illness Anxiety Disorder are other terms for hypochondria—the persistent worry that one has an undiagnosed life-threatening disease. “They’ll keep checking their vital signs, insist that they undergo unnecessary or repeat diagnostic tests, research obsessively about their perceived illness, and jump to conclusions with the slightest symptoms,” says Dr. Jurilla. “Hypochondriasis is more a mental condition than a physical one, so solutions range from psychotherapy and cognitive behavior therapy to antidepressants.”

As people navigate the traditional superstitions of Ghost Month with prayers and appeasement, Dr. Jurilla also hopes to bring awareness to real-life “ghostly” disorders and their impact on people.

“They may be rare or unusual, but they also present significant challenges for those affected. The best support we can offer them is understanding, empathy, and evidence-based medical approaches that can help them manage the symptoms and ultimately live a life free of ghosts—that may include stigma, isolation, and the debilitating impact of their condition.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

What to Look for in a Caring Environment

 

Choosing the right care setting for yourself or a loved one is a major decision. While location and facilities matter, the environment itself plays a critical role in ensuring a high quality of life. A genuinely caring environment promotes comfort, dignity, and well-being every single day. Here's what to look for when assessing whether a care home or support setting will truly nurture those in its care.

A Strong Sense of Respect and Kindness

At the heart of every caring environment is mutual respect. This goes beyond politeness—residents should feel listened to, involved in decisions about their care, and valued for who they are. Staff members should approach each person with patience, empathy, and genuine warmth. If you observe that residents are encouraged to express themselves, and their preferences are honored, it's a good sign that care is person centered.

Kindness isn't just a quality—it should be embedded in the culture of the care home. From small acts of compassion to the way staff respond during times of distress, these moments reflect the true character of the environment.

Cleanliness, Comfort, and Safety

Physical surroundings have a major influence on how a place feels. A caring setting should be clean, tidy, and free from unpleasant odors, but also warm and inviting rather than overly clinical. Comfortable seating, calming colors, and personalized décor help create a homely atmosphere where residents can relax and feel secure.

Safety is also crucial. Look for features such as handrails, non-slip flooring, and clear signage, especially for individuals with mobility or cognitive challenges. The best environments strike a balance between independence and safety, allowing residents to move freely while remaining protected.

Genuine Relationships and Familiar Faces

A positive caring environment fosters connection. Ideally, residents will form friendships with one another and enjoy familiar, consistent interactions with staff. High staff turnover can be disruptive and unsettling, particularly for older adults or those with dementia.

When carers are familiar faces, they're more likely to understand each person's background, needs, and preferences. This leads to more tailored support and a deeper level of trust. In some of the best care homes in Weymouth, families often speak highly of the warm, long-standing relationships between staff and residents—something that can't be faked or forced.

Activities That Nourish the Mind and Body

Engagement is essential to a fulfilling life, no matter your age. A caring environment should offer daily opportunities to participate in activities—whether it's music, gardening, crafts, gentle exercise, or simply a chat over tea. These moments provide more than entertainment; they support cognitive function, mental health, and social connection.

It's also important that activities are adapted to individual capabilities and interests. Choice matters. Residents should never feel forced to participate, but should have access to meaningful stimulation whenever they wish.

Involvement of Family and Friends

Care doesn't end at the door. A truly caring environment welcomes families and encourages them to stay involved. Whether it's attending events, sharing meals, or simply visiting at flexible hours, family inclusion enhances emotional well-being and helps maintain important bonds.

Open communication between the home and families is also key. Families should feel informed, involved, and reassured about their loved one's care.

Staff Who Are Trained and Supported

Even the best facilities can fall short without dedicated, well-trained staff. A caring environment depends on a team that is confident, compassionate, and continuously learning. Training in areas like dementia care, safeguarding, and mental health ensures that residents receive the right support.

It's equally important that staff are supported in their roles. Happy, motivated carers are more likely to deliver high-quality, consistent care—benefiting everyone in the community.

If you're searching for a place that truly prioritizes well-being and dignity, many of the best care homes in Weymouth reflect these values, offering not just support but a genuine sense of belonging.

How to Prepare for the Late Stages of Dementia

 

Dementia is a progressive condition that affects millions of individuals and their families worldwide. While the early and middle stages of dementia can be managed with strategies for maintaining independence, the late stages require additional preparation to ensure comfort, safety, and dignity. Here’s how you can prepare for the late stages of dementia, whether for yourself or a loved one.

1. Understand the Progression of Dementia

The late stages of dementia are characterized by severe cognitive decline, loss of physical abilities, and increased dependency on caregivers. During this stage, individuals may lose the ability to communicate effectively, recognize loved ones, or perform basic tasks like eating and walking. Understanding these changes can help you anticipate needs and prepare for challenges. For example, swallowing difficulties are common in late-stage dementia, so consulting a speech therapist or dietitian for recommendations on food textures and feeding techniques is essential for proper nutrition and hydration.

2. Plan for Advanced Care Needs

Late-stage dementia often requires comprehensive care. Creating a care plan in collaboration with healthcare professionals ensures medical, emotional, and physical needs are addressed. It is important to decide whether care will be provided at home, in a specialized care facility, or through hospice services, as each option has unique benefits and considerations. If you choose to move into a care home, select one like the East Street Care Home serving South Molton, as they specialize in dementia care, meaning you will get the best possible experts helping day to day. 

3. Ensure Comfort and Safety

Creating a comfortable and safe environment is essential. If you choose to stay at home, adapting the living space by removing tripping hazards, adding padding to furniture edges, and ensuring wheelchair accessibility can reduce risks. However, if you don’t want to do this, your best option is to move into accommodation that already caters to this.

4. Communicate with Compassion

While verbal communication may decline, emotional connections remain important. Non-verbal communication methods, such as gentle touches, eye contact, and a soothing tone, can convey love and reassurance. Patience is key when engaging with individuals, allowing time for responses and avoiding overwhelming them with too much information, so if you are helping a loved one through this, this is the one thing you should remember. 

5. Address Legal and Financial Matters

It is crucial to address legal and financial issues early to avoid complications later. Establishing power of attorney sooner rather than later ensures a trusted individual is authorized to make healthcare and financial decisions on behalf of the person with dementia. Reviewing advance directives and confirming that documents like living wills and do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders reflect the individual’s wishes is essential. Researching available benefits, such as Medicaid, long-term care insurance, or veteran’s assistance programs, can help cover care expenses.

6. Support Caregivers

Caring for someone in the late stages of dementia is emotionally and physically demanding. Caregivers should seek respite care to take breaks and recharge through services or family support. Connecting with others through support groups can provide emotional relief and practical advice. 

7. Consider End-of-Life Care

As dementia progresses, end-of-life care becomes an important consideration. Hospice or palliative care services provide comfort-focused care, emphasizing dignity and quality of life during the final stages. Discussing these options with the healthcare team ensures the individual’s needs are met and their wishes respected.

Conclusion

Preparing for the late stages of dementia requires a combination of practical planning, emotional resilience, and compassionate care. By understanding the progression of the condition, addressing advanced care needs, and supporting both the individual and caregivers, navigating this challenging journey can be done with grace and empathy. While the path may be difficult, prioritizing comfort and dignity ensures that the final stages of life are met with respect and love.