Dementias – So Much More Than Alzheimer’s
It seems everyone knows someone who has some type of Dementia. Families across America are impacted by some form of dementia and it’s estimated that over 6 million adults living in the United States suffer from Dementia or Dementia-like symptoms.
But what is Dementia? It’s certainly much more than Alzheimer’s Disease.
Dementia is an umbrella term that refers to wide range of conditions that include Alzheimer’s Disease but also includes Lewy Body Dementia, Vascular Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia and conditions related to Parkinson’s Disease and Huntington’s Disease.
Dementia directly impacts memory and one’s ability to think clearly. And although it mainly affects older people, it is not considered a normal part of aging.
Alzheimer’s Disease accounts for 60% to 80% of Dementias. Which is why people tend to use the term ‘Alzheimer’s’ as a blanket term for memory related issues. The other Dementias, Lewy Body Dementia, Vascular Dementia and Frontotemporal Dementia each account for approximately 5% to 10% of those impacted by memory issues.
Symptoms of Dementia
The symptoms of Dementia vary with each individual but all symptoms are considered to be progressive. According to the World Health Organization, Dementia can be categorized in three closely related stages:
Early-stage Dementia
The early stage of dementia is often overlooked, because the onset is gradual. Common symptoms include:
Forgetfulness
Losing track of the time
Becoming lost in familiar places.
Middle-stage Dementia
As dementia progresses to the middle stage, the signs and symptoms become clearer and more restricting. These include:
Becoming forgetful of recent events and people’s names
Becoming lost at home
Having increasing difficulty with communication
Needing help with personal care
Experiencing behavior changes, including wandering and repeated questioning.
Late-stage Dementia
The late stage of dementia is one of near total dependence and inactivity. Memory disturbances are serious and the physical signs and symptoms become more obvious. Symptoms include:
Becoming unaware of the time and place
Having difficulty recognizing relatives and friends
Having an increasing need for assisted self-care
Having difficulty walking
Experiencing behavior changes that may escalate and include aggression.
Dementia Diagnosis
There is no specific test to diagnose someone with Alzheimer’s Disease or any other form of Dementia. The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s (or any Dementia) is made by a physician after a careful examination of an individual. Understanding the individual’s medical history and the results of various blood tests can help a physician conclusively determine what type of Dementia is causing the symptoms.
Treating Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s Disease or any of the other Dementias. Sadly, with the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, Lewy Body, Vascular or Frontotemporal Dementia, the conditions will progress and worsen regardless of treatment. But there are ongoing studies throughout the medical community to find the causes of Dementia and develop treatments to help slow its progression.
In-Home Dementia Care
As a family member of someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease or other Dementia, it’s important to educate yourself on ways to support the individual. Oftentimes as the disease progresses, additional support by trained professionals is warranted. Finding the right level of support is not a simple decision. Many factors need to be examined to determine whether in home dementia care would be beneficial. Financial wherewithal is factored in as well as your loved one’s personal wishes.
Dementia Care at Home: Resources
To help determine what resources are available and appropriate, a consultation with a Care Manager or Patient Advocate may be a very prudent step. RNs who have studied Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease are well skilled in evaluating the condition of your loved one and can help you determine what support options would be best.