Dementia: Our Biggest Fear
Let’s face it. Most of us are afraid of developing Alzheimer’s. Normal forgetfulness can send us into a tizzy wondering if it is a sign of worsening symptoms yet to come. Sadly, worry is not entirely unfounded. The risk of dementia increases with age and increasing numbers of us will be living with it. One person is diagnosed with dementia every three minutes. And yet, 62 percent of people put off testing for a year or more.
Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability that is severe enough to cause problems in daily functioning. It causes problems with thinking, memory and reasoning. It happens when the parts of the brain used for learning, memory, decision making, and language is damaged or diseased. The four main types of dementia are irreversible and become worse over time. These four types are Alzheimer’s disease, Vascular dementia, Lewy bodies and Frontotemporal dementia. Although they can’t be reversed, they are partially manageable.
Dementia can be characterized as having stages. In the first stage, tests may reveal a problem but there are no obvious symptoms. Second, there may be very mild decline but the person will still be independent. Third is mild decline in which there are more changes in thinking and reasoning. The person with dementia may have difficulty making plans, may repeat themselves often, and may have difficulty remembering recent events. Fourth is moderate decline in which the person has difficulty traveling and handling money. Fifth is moderately severe decline in which the person may not remember phone numbers or names. They may be confused about the time of day or day of the week. They may need assistance with daily functions such as picking out clothes to wear. When in severe decline in the sixth stage, the person with dementia may forget the name of closest family members or need help with toileting and eating. There will also be changes in personality and mood. In the seventh stage, the dementia sufferer can’t speak meaningfully or walk and will spend most of their time in bed.
Alzheimer’s can only be definitively diagnosed with an autopsy. But specialists can diagnose it with 90 percent accuracy. As frightening as dementia is, it is in our best interests to be tested early. Did you know that about 20 percent of the causes of dementia can be reversed? Many symptoms that are similar to dementia can be caused by a variety of other factors, which may be easily treated such as drug interactions, excess alcohol, vitamin deficiencies or a buildup of fluid in the brain. The earlier we receive information, treatment and support, the healthier we will be in the long run.
What can we do to hold off dementia? Stay physically healthy, eat a balanced diet and stay mentally active. Cardiovascular health is especially important. Medicines, therapies and alternative treatments can help slow the symptoms.
How do we help people who are already experiencing dementia? We help them create meaning and purpose in their lives. Humans want to feel included and have social connection. Don’t shy away from them. Even if they forget your name, they will remember that you took good care of them, or you may remind them of someone they loved. Three things to focus on are: Do they feel safe? Are they happy? And are they pain-free?
Learn and utilize the many resources available to both the dementia patient and the care giver. Dementia is frightening, but being forewarned is forearmed. If you know about something beforehand, you can prepare for it.
Read more in Dementia: Part Two