Special Report: What is Dementia?
"What is dementia" is a growing question as 1 million new people are diagnosed each year. Understanding dementia and the disease process will provide insight and an educated approach to dementia care.
Studies show that there are 24 million people living with some form of dementia. Understanding dementia and the disease process will provide insight and an educated approach to dementia care. For example, though dementia is one the of the world’s fastest growing diseases, many are not aware that there are over 100 different types of dementia. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of the age-related memory loss diseases. Dementia is the seventh leading cause of death in the US. With the large aging population, the statistics are dismal. It is anticipated that 10 million baby boomers will develop a type of dementia.
What is Dementia?
Because women live longer than men statistically, it is expected that one in twenty women over the age of 65 and one in five over the age of 80 will develop some type of dementia. Studies show that 70% of those diagnosed with dementia live at home and are receiving care from family and friends. The statistics for the family caregiver/care partner are also sobering. Half of all family caregivers/care partners become seriously ill; some die before the person with dementia does.
Chronic stress negatively affects the family caregiver/care partner. This is a reality that everyone needs to know so that they can take the proper steps to take care of themselves first, to ensure their own health and well-being. The family caregiver/care partner is the most important part of the care-giving equation. Without them, everything can fall apart. This stress is increased by the progressively changing needs of the person with dementia. Care methods and approaches need to be reassessed regularly, a challenging task at times. Stress, frustration, anger and rage are common feelings that the family caregiver/care partner experiences over time.
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More on What is Dementia?
Dementia is a broad term that describes a group of symptoms associated with cognitive decline. It affects memory, thinking, language, and behavior. While it is most common in older adults, dementia can occur in people of any age.
The progression of dementia varies between individuals and what stage the person is at will determine what treatment is needed. There are seven stages of dementia ranging from no impairment to very severe impairment. Different types of dementia include Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia and Mixed Dementia. Each type has its own set of criteria for diagnosis as well as different treatments that may help slow down the progression or manage symptoms.
It’s important to note that dementia is not a normal part of aging, but it can be managed with the right care and support. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of dementia, it’s best to seek medical advice as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
By knowing what to look out for and what steps to take when dementia becomes apparent, we can ensure those living with this condition get the best treatment and care possible.
Types of Dementia
Different types of dementia include Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia and Mixed Dementia. Each type has its own set of criteria for diagnosis as well as different treatments that may help slow down the progression or manage symptoms. It’s important to note that early diagnosis is key in determining what treatment will be most effective for each individual. With the right care and support, people afflicted with dementia can have a better quality of life and enjoy activities they once enjoyed.
In the early stages of dementia, symptoms you will see include decreased memory, difficulty concentrating and trouble problem solving. As the condition progresses, more symptoms will present themselves such as disorientation with time or place, impaired judgment and changes in mood or personality. It is important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another, so it’s best to consult a doctor to develop an individualized treatment plan.
Living with dementia can be difficult for both the patients and their caregivers which is why it’s important to seek professional help if you suspect someone has dementia. With the right treatment plan and care team, those living with dementia can live a comfortable life even with this condition.
The middle stages of dementia symptoms include increased difficulty with daily activities, poor short-term memory, and impaired communication. In the late stages of dementia, the patient may experience a decrease in motor skills and become increasingly restless or agitated.
By knowing what to look out for and what steps to take when dementia becomes apparent, we can ensure those living with this condition get the best treatment and care possible. With early diagnosis and intervention, people can manage their symptoms more effectively and live as independently as possible for longer periods of time. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of dementia, it’s best to seek medical advice as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
If you would like more information about what dementia is, what stages of dementia are, what types of dementia there are and what treatment options are available, please visit our website for more resources. We can help you get the information you need to make an informed decision about what is best for you or your loved one.
Our Resources section can help you find the information and tools that you need. We have courses, videos, checklists, guidebooks, cheat sheets, how-to guides and more.
You can get started by clicking on the link below. We know that taking care of a loved one is hard work, but with our help you can get the support that you need.
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Diane Carbo