What is Dementia?

We’re all familiar with the term Dementia but what exactly is it and how can we navigate this ambiguous condition to the best of our ability when we do realize it’s beginning to affect someone we love?

In order for you, your friends and family members to experience happier aging, the first step is to grasp a firm understanding of what Dementia is and isn’t. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, dementia does not refer to any one specific disease. It’s more of an umbrella term that is used to describe a broad range of symptoms associated with decline in memory or additional cognitive skills that are severe enough to reduce a person’s ability to perform everyday activities.

Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60 to 80 percent of Dementia cases while Vascular Dementia, which occurs after a stroke, is the second most common type of Dementia.

Even though Dementia usually does involve memory loss, memory loss alone does not mean you or your loved one has Dementia. According to medical experts, the symptoms of Dementia can vary greatly; however typically two of the following core mental functions must be significantly impaired in order for a person’s condition to be considered as Dementia:

• Memory
• Communication and language
• Ability to focus and pay attention
• Reasoning and judgment
• Visual perception

Findings developed by the Mayo Clinic say that if someone you care about is displaying the following cognitive and psychological signs, then Dementia is most likely happening:

Cognitive changes

• Memory loss, often detected by a spouse, close friend or family member
• Difficulty communicating or finding the right words
• Difficulty reasoning or problem-solving
• Difficulty handling complex tasks
• Difficulty with planning and organizing
• Difficulty with coordination and motor functions
• Confusion and disorientation

Psychological changes

• Personality changes
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Inappropriate behavior
• Paranoia
• Agitation
• Hallucinations

Regardless of how old we are, we are all forgetful from time to time. But as we age, our risk of being affected by dementia increases. According to research, by the time we turn 85 years old, nearly 35-percent of people in our age group will be afflicted with Dementia and experience the gradual decline of memory loss and mental skills.

Here are 10 tips taken from Alzheimer.net to help you navigate Dementia with your loved one in the best way possible:

• Be educated about the disease. Learning as much as possible about the progression of Dementia can help you better understand and empathize with your loved one’s situation.
• Be realistic in your expectations for yourself and your loved one. Set realistic goals and learn to expect the unexpected. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting unrealistic expectations as your loved one struggles with Dementia.
• Develop predictable routines and schedules. As Dementia progresses, it is more important than ever to have set routines and a schedule. This can help to eliminate confusion and frustration for both you and your loved one.
• Don’t argue with your loved one. Arguing with your loved one about a forgotten memory will only upset them and further frustrate you. Be willing to let most things go.
• Don’t underestimate the power of good nutrition. Studies have linked Dementia to lifestyle choices, including poor nutrition. Limiting refined sugars and increasing vegetables can help improve your loved one’s mental and physical health.
• Help them maintain their independence whenever possible. As tempting as it may be to do everything for your loved one, it is very important for them to do as many things as possible by himself or herself, even if you need to start the activity. Supporting them in maintaining their sense of self and dignity is of utmost importance for their mental psyche and wellbeing.
• Maintain and keep visible a current list of medications and dosages of medications. This will ensure you always know when their next dose of medication will be and you will be able to accurately share any medication information with doctors or other caregivers who come into your home.
• Accept support when friends and family members offer it. After everything you have done to support your loved one with Dementia, don’t forget that you need support for yourself as well. Rely on family members and other loved ones when you need them and explore respite care options such as the ones provided by Nurse Next Door.
• Take care of yourself. To avoid burnout, be sure to take care of yourself. Take a time-out. Keep doing the things you still love doing and remember it’s ok and healthy to prioritize yourself every now and again.
• Have fun! Your loved needs to and should still continue to have fun and so should you. Make the most out of a tough situation. Go to the museum. Have a picnic in the park on a sunny day. Go see a movie or check-out some live music. Enjoy every minute you have with your loved in the best way possible.