Dementia

Dementia 

Cognitive decline is scary. We can help. 

What is Dementia? 

Dementia is not a singular disease but rather a term used to describe a group of symptoms related to cognitive functioning. People with dementia experience memory loss, trouble thinking, and behavior issues that make it difficult to function in daily life. While dementia mostly affects older people, it isn’t a normal part of aging. Various diseases can cause dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia and vascular dementia.  

Symptoms  

Symptoms of dementia may depend on the underlying disease, but common signs and symptoms include: 

Cognitive Changes: 

• Memory loss, poor judgment, confusion 
• Difficulty communicating or finding words 
• Getting lost in familiar places 
• Trouble reasoning or problem-solving 
• Difficulty with planning and organizing 
• Problems with handling money or paying bills 
• Poor coordination or motor control 

Psychological Changes: 

• Personality changes like acting impulsively or not caring about other people’s feelings 
• Losing interest in normal activities 
• Anxiety 
• Paranoia 
• Agitation 
• Hallucinations 

What Causes Dementia? 

Dementia occurs when the parts of the brain involved with memory, learning, decision making and language are diseased or damaged. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for between 60%-80% of dementia cases. There are many other causes, including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, and various diseases. Underlying health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and diabetes may increase a person’s risk of dementia. 

Services for Dementia 

• Testing – Neuropsychological assessment can help in the diagnosis and management of dementia. It typically lasts for 2-3 hours and involves standardized testing of memory, attention, executive functioning, processing speed, visuo-spatial skills, motor skills, and language. 
• Individual therapy – Psychotherapists can help patients and their families manage emotional and behavioral issues, develop procedures and plans to improve daily functioning, and increase positive communication. 
• Medication – Antidepressants and other psychoactive medications may improve mood and behavior issues related to dementia. 
• TMS – Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a non-invasive treatment that uses electromagnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve mood issues and other symptoms related to dementia. 

Why Seek Help for Dementia? 

Getting help for dementia is critical for slowing decline and maintaining quality of life. Early detection may allow you access to better treatment options, give you more time to plan and prioritize the things that are important to you, and motivate you to make healthy lifestyle changes to help preserve cognitive functioning. 

If you or someone you love suffers from dementia, call Athena Care today. One of our friendly associates will help you get the help you need.