Dementia is a broad term for multiple diseases that impair mental cognition and ability to function normally. These diseases are physical changes in the brain that cause the brain cells to die thus preventing normal nerve connection which leads to mental impairment and degradation.
Dementia is not a normal part of aging it is rather a disorder that often affects the older population, yet early onset dementia can also affect people in their 30s 40s and 50s. Alzheimer’s is one of the most common dementia diseases, although the other different types of dementia like Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, Mixed Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia are also affecting a number of the population. Many patients who suffer from Parkinson and Huntington disease are prone to dementia as these diseases may cause dementia as well. Alcohol abuse may also be a source for dementia.
When a person is diagnosed with dementia his or her life can be greatly affected as well as his or her family’s life, as dementia is usually not reversible, and the disease is progressive. Symptoms often start subtle and vague and might be hard to detect. Some of the symptoms for dementia are:
- Memory problems, specifically short memory
- increased confusion and uncertainty
- speech problems, difficulty finding words
- personality, mood, and behavioural changes
- anxiety and paranoia
- declining motor functions
- depression and apathy
- Loss of the ability to do activities of daily living and so on.
Caring for a loved one with dementia is not easy nor is it a simple task, in fact, it is a very challenging responsibility for family caregivers to do it on their own. Accepting that a loved one suffers from this disorder may be quite difficult and often family members suffer more than the one affected by this disorder. However, recognizing and accepting help caring for the loved one can take a huge load off one’s back. They can get help a couple of hours per day or week to 24 hours per day, 7 days a week to help improve their quality of life and relieve the family members.
If one of your family members suffers from any type of dementia, let us help. Our professional care givers are trained in this area. Feel free to contact us or book an appointment for a free consultation and assessment.
