Unless you are living or working with someone dealing with dementia, you may not realize just what it is or how it is related to Alzheimer's. Dementia is considered an umbrella term which covers many different types of diseases. I like to explain it like the term "sports." Sports covers football, basketball, tennis, etc. So "sports" is to "dementia," as "football" is to "Alzheimer's."
Dementia includes Alzheimer's, Lewy Bodies, Parkinson's related dementia, alcohol related dementia, and more. It in and of itself covers a group of various symptoms as opposed to a specific syndrome. The symptoms of dementia interfere with daily living and can eventually require additional care as it progresses.
While there is no cure for diseases covered under the umbrella, there are forms of dementia that can actually be reversed. One is alcohol-related dementia. Unlike other forms, dementia caused by alcohol abuse is a result of consuming alcohol in excess over a long period of time. If the brain cells are not irreparably damaged because of the alcohol abuse, the body can heal what damage was done, and the person could possibly return to full mental health. Other things that may cause dementia symptoms that can be reversed include medication, depression, thyroid, or even vitamin deficiencies.
Symptoms of dementia are not just memory related. It can also affect vision, communication, focus, and reasoning. Symptoms also progress as time goes on. It is recommended to address symptoms as early as possible to start receiving medical treatment which may actually help slow the progression. One thing to consider as well is someone on the inside of a situation may not realize just how advanced the symptoms have become because they have seen the slow change day by day. Someone on the outside will be able to recognize a concern more readily because the behaviors will not have become as "normal" to them as they have the family. Another thing to remember, however, is that some memory loss is normal as a person ages.
There are risk-factors which may help families to determine whether or not their loved-one is exhibiting symptoms of dementia or it is just an aging factor. One of the biggest factors would include family history. If it is common in the family, the likelihood is increased. But only a trained medical professional can make an accurate determination, so it is recommended to seek medical attention if you believe dementia is the cause for any symptoms. Another risk-factor to take into consideration is a person's health. Someone who eats right, exercises, and has good heart health will not be as high of a risk as someone who doesn't monitor these areas. It is not an absolute when preventing forms of dementia, but it does help keep the symptoms at bay longer.
Once a doctor has determined that someone has dementia, it is best to follow the recommendations provided by the doctor and keep a positive attitude. Many people with dementia are still able to have fulfilling lives with their loved ones. And even though the symptoms will progress, it is difficult to say how quickly they will. Make a plan, but also make sure to enjoy your loved-one as well. Support groups are a wonderful resource. The road ahead may be difficult, so having the support of those who have been through it already will help you each and every step of the way.
