Understanding Dementia Beyond Alzheimer's
Every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases of dementia worldwide. It’s a number that continues to rise, but the prevalence of this disease does not mean it’s a natural part of aging. Dementia is a condition that affects the brain. Unfortunately, dementia is not curable, but there are health innovations that can help slow or stop the progression of the disease if found early.
Each June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Health Awareness Month. To keep the momentum going as you move into the rest of the year, take some time to learn about dementia so you can better understand it and what to look out for in yourself or aging loved ones.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is not a singular disease but a term describing various conditions that affect a person’s brain function, such as memory, judgment, and thinking. While dementia is relatively common, it is not a normal part of aging. It is normal for individuals to experience age-related memory changes, such as occasionally misplacing things or having trouble recalling a name or event. However, if those changes start interfering with an individual's daily activities, it may signify something more serious.
Types Of Dementia
There are many types of dementia, all affecting the brain in a slightly different way, leading to varying signs and symptoms among each type. However, understanding the basics of the four common categories of dementia can help you comprehend dementia as an overall condition.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It occurs when abnormal protein deposits build up throughout the brain. Most individuals start showing symptoms of Alzheimer’s in their mid-60s, although some have early-onset, experiencing symptoms as early as mid-30s.
The signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s differ on whether the condition is mild, moderate, or severe. Early indications of Alzheimer’s include difficulty retaining new information, getting lost in familiar places, and wandering. As the condition progresses, individuals may have trouble recognizing loved ones, show impulsive behaviors, and have difficulty communicating.
Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal dementia occurs when neurons in the brain’s frontal and temporal lobes are damaged, usually because of abnormal amounts of tau and TDP-43 proteins. Signs and symptoms of frontotemporal dementia affect a person’s behaviors, emotions, movements, and language. The first signs of frontotemporal dementia usually occur between 45 and 64 years of age. Common signs and symptoms that may progress throughout the disease include difficulty planning and organizing, impulsive behaviors, shaky hands, balance challenges, and difficulty with speech.
Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy body dementia occurs when the brain has an abnormal buildup of alpha-synuclein proteins, affecting how the brain communicates with the rest of the body. It affects about 1 million Americans, usually with symptoms after age 50. Signs and symptoms include cognitive decline, movement difficulties, sleep disorders, and visual hallucinations. These symptoms may include an inability to concentrate, feeling disorganized, a loss of coordination, reduced control over facial emotions, and insomnia.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia occurs when blood clots disrupt blood flow to the brain. People who have had strokes are at an increased risk for vascular dementia. Signs and symptoms typically start after the age of 65. Symptoms include forgetfulness, misplacing items, trouble following directions, difficulty learning new information, and poor judgment.
Dementia Care With Visiting Angels
If you have a family member who is starting to show signs of any type of dementia, the team at Visiting Angels is here to help you navigate this challenging time. We offer various at-home care services, including specialized care for those with dementia, including Alzheimer’s.
Our primary goal is to help your aging loved one stay safe and comfortable at home while also ridding you of any worry if you cannot care for them full-time. Contact us today to see how we can bring comfort and reassurance to your family’s life.