Dementia is the gradual deterioration and loss of a person’s ability to process their thoughts.
Symptoms include:
- memory loss
- difficulty speaking and writing
- losing things
- mood swings
- difficulty in making decisions
- confusion.
Dementia is tricky to diagnose, especially in the early stages, because there are many similar illnesses. There are many types of dementia as well, which makes diagnosis complicated. Sometimes it’s not possible to determine the type of dementia, but you’ve probably heard of the most common one, which is Alzheimer’s.
For many family members dementia can be a long and drawn-out experience of suffering–not only the suffering of their loved one, but of themselves. A similar feeling to grieving, as they have in some sense actually lost someone they love, their suffering is ongoing. It is especially upsetting when they visit the person with dementia or talk to them on the phone, as the feelings of sorrow and loss is magnified.
It can be upsetting for family members when the patient doesn’t recognize them. On the bright side, patients can relive moments of happiness in their life over and over again. When their minds transport them to a time when they were joyful and happy it can be a positive experience for them, and also for others if they can see it from a positive point of view.
If you even suspect a friend or family member has dementia it’s important to talk to them or others close to them. Dementia patients can deteriorate quickly. It’s calming for everyone if important decisions, such as will writing, can be done while the person is of sound mind.
Many of the symptoms are classic signs of old age and perhaps not dementia. That is why it’s hard to diagnose and an experienced professional is always needed to confirm for sure if the patient has dementia, symptoms of old age or another illness or disease.
It is possible for people with dementia to live at home if they have someone to care for them and check if they are safe and well. Keeping independence and a high quality of life should be the first main goal after a diagnosis is made. For the later stages for the health, safety and well-being of the person with dementia they will likely have to have live-in care or move to a care facility.
According to the World Health Organization there are around 50 million people living with dementia and about 10 million new cases diagnosed every year, so chances are you will eventually know someone effected by the disease. Continued studies on dementia help us understand it and help people live through it with more ease and grace than before.
Living at Baxter Senior Living in Anchorage Alaska At Baxter Senior Living, we work to ensure that our community is an extension of your loved ones family. If you are at a place in your life that you need to discuss Anchorage Assisted Living, Anchorage Memory Care, or Anchorage Respite Care please reach out today. We are happy to help answer any questions. Contact a Baxter Senior Living Representative today! 907-865-3500
