It is important to remember that dementia is not a specific disease but a general term used to describe cognitive impairments such as poor memory and being unable to remember, make decisions or even think clearly. These cognitive impairments stop a person from performing usual tasks that they may not have had problems with before. While dementia is a general term, Alzheimer's disease is a common form of dementia with its own signs and symptoms. It is important to distinguish the two.
While dementia is common and is expected to impact around 14 million people by 2060, it should not be considered a normal part of aging. Therefore, it is important that you learn the signs and symptoms so that you can provide the right level of care to your loved one.
Signs of DementiaDementia is a general term used to describe cognitive impairment. Therefore, the signs and symptoms may be quite general and vary from person to person. However, the common signs that point towards dementia include:
* Poor attention span
* Getting lost in familiar and well-known settings
* Forgetting the names of close friends and family members
* Inability to complete tasks
* Trouble problem-solving
Usually, it will take time noticing these signs and symptoms. This is because you may consider them to be a usual part of aging and may have brushed them off. While aging does usually come with certain problems such as slight memory loss, it should not impact their lives to such an extent that they can no longer go about their lives or perform their usual tasks.
Am I at an Increased Risk of Dementia?While dementia can impact anyone and everyone, there are certain factors that can make you more likely to develop dementia. Factors that may increase your risk of dementia include:
* Your age (dementia usually impacts those who are 65 years old and above)
* Your heart health (there have been links between poor heart health such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol and dementia)
* Family history (if you have family members who have dementia such as parents or siblings, you are at a greater risk)
* Traumatic brain injury (being subjected to a head injury can increase your risk of developing dementia)
Is There a Cure?Although there is no cure to dementia, there are ways to help you or your loved one cope with the diagnosis and symptoms. The best way to help your loved one is to find a safe environment that allows them to flourish. You might want to find a care home that provides them with all the comforts and assistance that is needed. SeniorCare, for example, provide a lovely and safe environment while also having Dementia and Alzheimer's care experts on hand. They allow dog visits, have nurses on call 24/7 and provide all the required safety equipment, such as grab bars. This means that your loved one can benefit from assisted living while also having the care that is needed to help them manage their symptoms.
Dementia is a common ailment, yet there is no cure. All you can do is know the symptoms and act if your loved one exhibits them. Make sure that they are in a safe and comfortable environment above all.