Dementia
Dementia is the umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological disorders affecting brain functioning. Amongst these are Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy Body disease, Parkinson’s-related dementia, Frontal Lobe dementia, HIV/Aids-related dementia, and others. There are more than 100 types of diseases that may cause dementia (ADI website).
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Contents
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DEMENTIA
According to the World Health Organisation in its International Classification of Diseases (2003), dementia is: “A syndrome due to disease of the brain, usually of a chronic or progressive nature, in which there is disturbance of multiple higher cortical functions, including memory, thinking, orientation, comprehensions, calculation, learning capacity, language and judgement.
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ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Causes Alzheimer’s damages and kills brain cells, ultimately shrinking the brain. The exact cause of it is uncertain, but it is believed to stem from a combination of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. There are also two hypotheses, which state that a build-up of protein in the brain called amyloid and Tau affect the supporting and transport system of brain cells, are responsible.
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SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Difficulty performing daily tasks
- Forgetfulness and confusion as a result of attention and concentration
- Memory loss
- Repeating statements and questions
- Misplacement of personal belongings
- Disorientation
- Forgetting names of family and friends
- Agnosia
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in mood, personality and behaviour, for example depression, irritability, emotional outbursts
- Poor judgement
- Difficulty writing and speaking
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SKILLS THAT REMAIN VERY LATE
he part of the brain that stores early childhood information, skills and habits tends to be affected later, delaying the degeneration of the below: • Dancing • Singing • Story telling • Crafting • Hobbies Focusing on these abilities can help maintain quality of life.
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STAGES
- Pre-dementia: Early symptoms, associated with memory loss, often mistaken for aging or stress
- Early dementia: Definitive diagnosis stage, with memory and learning compromised
- Moderate dementia: Progressive deterioration starts to hinder independence
- Advanced Dementia: Patient is completely dependent upon caregivers
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DIAGNOSIS
- There is currently no specific test available to diagnose AD. Instead, the diagnosis is mainly clinical.
- A medical history and behavioural observation is performed by a doctor.
- Specialised scans and imaging may assist in ruling out other conditions.
RISK FACTORS
- Age
- Family history of AD
- Having Down Syndrome
- More common among females
- Previous repetitive head trauma
- An unhealthy lifestyle
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PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
- Studies show that long-term participation in activities and events that are mentally and socially stimulating may reduce the risk of AD.
- A healthy lifestyle, diet and exercise are recommended.
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TREATMENT
Current treatment manages the symptoms of AD, such as:
- Cognitive enhances
- Cognition, behaviour and function
- In some cases, additional medication may be required for insomnia, depression, agitation or anxiety.
- Support through family, friends and groups
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WHAT TO EXPECT
Pneumonia, urinary tract infection and dehydration are the most common dangers. Individuals with AD are also more prone to falling and injuring themselves. A calm and stable home environment can help reduce behavioural problems. Routine habits and reducing memory-demanding tasks can also make life much easier. Hence, the following are suggested:
- Always keep your valuables, such as your phone and wallet, in the same place at home
- Keep a list of your daily tasks and appointments, and tick them off as they have been completed
- Remove clutter from your space
- Ask your doctor to keep your treatment regime as simple as possible
- Schedule regular appointments for the same day, same time and same location
- Activate the location application on your phone in case you get lost
- Automate regular monthly payments as far as possible
- Keep photographs and familiar items visible in your home
- Wear well-fitting shoes with an adequate grip and install handrails in the bathroom and along staircases
- Set reminders to intake fluids regularly
Please Note: This is an educational information leaflet only and should not be used for diagnosis. For more information on dementia, consult your healthcare professional.
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WHAT TO EXPECT
Pneumonia, urinary tract infection and dehydration are the most common dangers. Individuals with AD are also more prone to falling and injuring themselves. A calm and stable home environment can help reduce behavioural problems. Routine habits and reducing memory-demanding tasks can also make life much easier. Hence, the following are suggested:
- Always keep your valuables, such as your phone and wallet, in the same place at home
- Keep a list of your daily tasks and appointments, and tick them off as they have been completed
- Remove clutter from your space
- Ask your doctor to keep your treatment regime as simple as possible
- Schedule regular appointments for the same day, same time and same location
- Activate the location application on your phone in case you get lost
- Automate regular monthly payments as far as possible
- Keep photographs and familiar items visible in your home
- Wear well-fitting shoes with an adequate grip and install handrails in the bathroom and along staircases
- Set reminders to intake fluids regularly
Please Note: This is an educational information leaflet only and should not be used for diagnosis. For more information on dementia, consult your healthcare professional.
Medical References
