Dementia Is Not A Disease For The Old

Dementia is a prolonged or progressive syndrome that results in deterioration in cognitive function. The ability to process thought is greatly severed beyond the expected in cases of normal aging. Dementia affects language, calculation, thinking, orientation, memory, comprehension, judgment, and learning capacity. It never affects one’s consciousness. Deterioration in emotional regulation, motivation or social behavior mostly accompanies or precedes the impairment in cognitive function.

A variety of diseases and injuries cause dementia. They primarily or sometimes secondarily affect the brain, with perfect examples being the Alzheimer’s illness or stroke. It is not only those who suffer from the condition that bear the brunt of its effects but also the caregivers and families of those living with the condition. The responsibility and stress of taking care of a friend or loved one who is suffering from the dementia can be great. It has been identified as an important cause of disability and dependency especially among older people across the globe. It impacts severe physical, physiological, social and economic ramifications on those affected. 

Dementia comes in different forms or causes. There is no distinct margin between the various forms of dementia and mixed forms of the problem do co-exist. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease that has been identified to contribute to 60-70% of the cases. Some other forms of dementia include several conditions that cause frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies. The Lewy bodies are strange protein aggregates that usually develop inside nerve cells. 

Though dementia is commonly associated with seniors, it sometimes affects people with not so advanced ages. Though rare, several cases of people suffering from the condition while still young have been identified. Stan Mikita, a retired professional ice hockey player, has been well-known to suffer dementia with Lewy bodies. The Slovak-born Canadian is regarded as one of the best players of the game in the 1960s. His memory and cognitive function are known to have been slowly waning for years since he was relatively young. Once old age caught up with him, his cognitive function rapidly deteriorated and a few months later, his diagnosis of Lewy body dementia was made public.

It is suspected that Mikita's problems could have started way back during his playing days due to the repeated concussions the players suffer during gameplay. Science has it that repeated head trauma can result in a progressive neurodegenerative disease known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The neurodegeneration eventually results in dementia. 

Lewy body dementia severely disrupts movement, thinking, sleep, movement, and behavior. Hallucinations and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may accompany it. Mikita’s family has no objection to giving out his brain for a postmortem on his demise to pave the way for further scientific research on the disease. An illness that could have started way back during his playing days, yet people so often mistake it as a disease of those who are elderly.

Alzheimer’s Hostess Personality

In certain situations, older adults suffering from Alzheimer’s can display an uncanny ability to function normally. One of the most common situations where seniors with Alzheimer’s exhibit normal functionality is during visits to the doctor. The ability to conceal characteristics of dementia for a given duration is referred to as a Hostess Personality.





The emergence of a Hostess Personality has sometimes been accredited to fear and denial. If a person with Alzheimer’s is afraid of the repercussions of a doctor’s appointment, they will do their best to appear perfectly normal when they are with the doctor.

The Selective Engagement Theory

As a person gets older, their energy levels reduce, especially if they have a condition like Alzheimer’s. The reduction forces them to choose the activities that merit the use of their restricted personal resources. Any activities that are deemed relevant are undertaken while those of less importance are ignored.

The carrying out of complex mental tasks is more taxing for seniors with Alzheimer’s. They have to work harder to finish an activity and need a longer recovery time once they are done. The result is that they usually tend to sleep a lot after any mentally strenuous task.

According to the selective engagement theory, the elderly are highly motivated to overcome all their cognitive shortcomings in any situation that they consider to be of importance to them. A visit to the doctor is usually considered very important because, to someone with their condition, it could determine whether they can retain their independence or not. 

Dealing With a Hostess Personality

Sometimes, taking care of a person with a Hostess Personality can be a daunting task. If you take them to a doctor or report their behavior to family members, they will not display the symptoms that you ‘claim’ that they are exhibiting. Your credibility with the doctor or relatives may be put in doubt, leading to frustration.

The following methods can be used to deal with a Hostess Personality:

• Talk to your elderly relative and try to convince them that you have their best interests at heart. Assure them that revealing their affliction is not an attempt to get rid of them and that it is for their own good.
• Inform the doctor about what is happening privately. The doctor will know the best way to deal with the situation.

Although dealing with a relative who has Alzheimer’s can be difficult, especially if they exhibit a Hostess Personality, showing great care and devotion goes a long way in improving their condition. 

Taking care of an Alzheimer’s patient is usually a round-the-clock task. If you are not always available to be with them, hiring someone to take care of them in the familiar comfort of your home is the next best option.

Is It Alzheimer's Disease Or "Just Getting Old"?

If you are getting up there in years, your memory may not seem quite as sharp as it used to be. Then again, your memory may be starting to slip in some rather unusual ways. For many aging adults, the fear of being victims of Alzheimer disease is a very real concern. But, do not panic if you cannot remember important dates or if you forget which grandson's birthday it is. Some of these annoying slips and skips in memory are nothing more than perfectly normal signs of aging. Sometimes it is a sign that you just need to challenge your brain to be more active. If you believe you are experiencing serious problems with your memory, here are a few ways to tell if Alzheimer's disease may be to blame.

Chronically Repeating Requests for the Same Information

One of the signs of Alzheimer's disease is seen when a person constantly asks others to repeat the same information over and over again. If this happens once in a while, it may simply be a sign that they are a little forgetful; however, when it is a chronic occurrence, it suggests that something more serious may be going on upstairs. People who suffer with a chronic state of looping requests for the same information may not even know they are doing it. From their perspective, each time they ask will undoubtedly seem like it is the first time they are asking.

Misplacing Objects

It is normal for an aging person to visit a friend and walk out the door without their keys. They may even forget where they put their keys or parked their car. In the case of a person suffering with Alzheimer's disease, this problem is a lot more advanced. Instead of simply forgetting where a person has placed an object, the misplacing of objects get stranger and more frequent. They might leave their socks in the kitchen sink and hang their tie on the deadbolt slot near the front door of their home. To the average onlooker, these types of associations involved in the misplacement of objects will tend to be obviously uncommon or out of place.




Misunderstanding the Function of Objects
Another common sign of Alzheimer's disease is when people appear to misunderstand how to use a common every day object. If a person tries to shave their face with a phone receiver, or attempts to answer their electric shaver, then you may have a classic Alzheimer's patient on your hands. On the other hand, if a person simply needs help figuring out how to program their digital clock, use the remote to their television or set their microwave to the right setting, this is more likely an age-related slip in memory function.

The Loss of Time and Spacial Confusion

When a person gets older, it is common to forget what day it is. It is also common to take a wrong turn and get lost while driving. Often, with a little thought and effort, these mistakes will be easily corrected by a person with a properly functioning mind. On the other hand, if a person starts to notice large gaps in time are missing, this could tend to be a more classic sign of Alzheimer's disease. Another classic sign is when an elderly person all-of-a-sudden becomes very confused as to where they are or how they got there. Such skips in spacial memory suggest that the memory pathway outlining the steps being covered from one moment to the next are not being held in short term memory. If this occurs often, then chances are that Alzheimer's may be to blame.

Conclusion
Growing old will inevitably bring with it a senior moment or two. It is normal to experience some trouble getting the aging neurons in one's brain to fire off like they used to do. Although it can be frustrating to learn that your mind is not like the steel trap it used to be, this does not necessarily imply that you are in danger of Alzheimer's disease; however, if you start to experience genuinely strange lapses in memory, it may be time to be checked out by a physician.

Early Warning Signs: When to Call the Doctor About Alzheimer's

Alzheimer’s disease is a complex, progressive, and irreversible brain disorder that attacks both memory and judgment. Not only does this disease cripple one’s ability to carry out common, everyday tasks, but it is also incredibly dangerous if left untreated. Although there is no known cure, there are options for slowing the effects and improving the quality of life if recognized early enough. Below is a list of the most common warning signs and how to proceed.


Memory loss that interferes with daily life

This is probably the most common sign of the Alzheimer’s disease. Everyone forgets things from time to time, but if you notice it happening on a consistent basis it may be a major warning sign. Things to look for in particular are: difficulty with remembering important dates and special events, forgetting to pay bills, getting lost easily, or constantly needing to be reminded of the same thing over and over.

Changes in personality

Quite often, people with Alzheimer’s will undergo severe changes in mood and personality. They may become easily disturbed at home or at work for no good reason. You may even notice them become suspicious, fearful, worried, or even violent towards friends and loved ones.

Disorientation and constant confusion

A normal person might occasionally forget what day of the week it is, but people with Alzheimer’s deeply struggle to grasp the passage of time. Calendar dates and understanding the changing of seasons might easily confuse them. They may also struggle to accomplish simple, everyday tasks such as getting dressed, tying their shoes, or cooking meals. Disorientation is also very typical. People with Alzheimer’s can easily get lost in their own neighborhood or struggle to figure out where they are and how they got there.

Lack of hygiene and social withdrawal

Often times the most common symptoms are the most obvious ones. Because they are confused by everyday tasks, people with Alzheimer’s may stop bathing, combing their hair, brushing their teeth, or even dressing appropriately. They may fail to recognize close friends and family and therefore give up on social activities or their favorite hobbies.

Misplacing things

It is common for people with Alzheimer’s to put things in strange places. They might place their shoes in the oven and even accuse you of stealing from them. Normal people often misplace things now and again, but the major difference is that Alzheimer’s sufferers lack the ability to logically retrace their steps and locate things.

Seek help early

Attempting to diagnose a loved one or someone in your care with Alzheimer’s disease can be an incredibly difficult and emotional task. Knowing the warning signs and seeking professional help early is crucial in dealing with this disease. For more information call the Visiting Angels staff today at 800-365-4189.

The Difference Between Alzheimer's and Dementia

There is often a misunderstanding as to what Alzheimer's and dementia are. These terms are often thrown around leading to most of the misunderstanding. However, there is a significant difference between the two terms. Below is the basic description of what dementia and Alzheimer's disease consist of. After that, listed is the difference between the two terms.

What is Dementia

Dementia is when the brain no longer functions normally. The word dementia was first used to replace the word senility which the medical board believed to be out of date. The symptoms of dementia can include; asking the same questions over and over; getting lost, even in familiar settings; and getting confused about times, people, and places. The presence of these symptoms alone does not necessarily mean dementia. For it be classified as dementia, the symptoms must be severe enough to interfere with daily life. People suffering from dementia often exhibit these symptoms at different rates. Some types of dementia can be reversed. The types of dementia that can be reversed are often when the brain tissue remains undamaged. Cases like this include, a high fever, poor nutrition, dehydration, vitamin deficiency, minor head injury, thyroid problem, or a bad reaction to medicine. These cases are serious and need to be treated by a medical professional right away. However, once the underlying cause of the dementia is treated, the brain returns back to it's normal function and the dementia is cured. However, there are several problems when dementia is irreversible. This cases happen when the dementia is caused by damaged tissue in the brain.

What is Alzheimer's Disease

So what is Alzheimer's? Alzheimer's disease is a neurological disease leading to loss of neurons and intellectual properties. Although Alzheimer's disease is associated with the elderly it is not a normal process of aging. Alzheimer's disease occurs because the person lacks some vital brain chemicals used in the transmission of messages. In an Alzheimer's patient develops plagues or tangles in the brain that cut of circulation to the tissue causing the brain matter to die. This is why Alzheimer's is hard to classify in a living person. Often times people are diagnosed with it based on the symptoms, however it can not be a confirmed diagnose until the patient is dead and his or her brain is examined. It is believed that about one in three of the elderly will be diagnosed with having Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive terminal disease, once diagnosed the condition only gets worse. There are several ways to slow down the progress of the disease, however there is no cure for the disease.

However, it is widely accepted that maintaining an active lifestyle can help slow down the progression of the disease. Certain activities that slow down the progression include; gardening or other yard work, and any type of aerobic exercise. Sometimes people can confuse common emotional distress with dementia. There are several problems the elder have to face that can be hard. These problems include; death of a spouse or friend; coping with retirement; feeling sad, lonely, or bored. These problems can often cause the person to feel lost and confused or even forgetful. These problems can be cured by reaching out to the person. Family or friends reaching out to the person can ease some of the emotional distress revealing of person of their problems. Other times the emotional problems are too severe and need to be handled by a doctor or licensed therapist.

What is the Difference

The easiest way to note the difference between the two terms is dementia is a symptom while Alzheimer's disease is the cause. The most common cause of dementia happens to be Alzheimer's disease with about 80 percent of all dementia cases being caused by Alzheimer's. Most people tend to think of dementia and Alzheimer's in a continuum with dementia being less severe and Alzheimer's being the most severe. However, this is a flawed thought process. Dementia is present at all stages of Alzheimer's disease. However, Alzheimer's disease can be in different stages and the amount of dementia present can be less severe in the earlier stages. The best way to compare this is an analogy with the term fever. A fever is a symptom, the elevated temperature of the human body, however, that does not explain why the person is sick. The person is sick due to a virus. In this analogy, the fever represents dementia and the virus is Alzheimer's.

Although these terms are very commonly confused, there is a distinct difference between them. Dementia is a symptom, while Alzheimer's is the disease that causes the symptom. Although dementia and Alzheimer's are serious medical conditions that are irreversible. Despite there not being a cure, there are several ways one can slow down the progress of Alzheimer's.

Living With Dementia

Dementia is a medical term used to describe the mental decline of an individual due to the deterioration of cognitive brain function. This disorder is mainly seen in patients of advanced age; however, there are cases of dementia that effect individuals who are much younger. Dementia is a set of symptoms that signify the increased decline in mental capacity caused by other diseases. Certain medical disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease list dementia as a symptom.

While a handful of causes may be rendered as temporary, the majority of patients suffering from dementia face decline in their cognition, social ability, and daily living skills. Problems with speech, language, comprehension, and reasoning ability gradually worsen. The individual’s personality and memory are often noticeably affected with this disorder.

Coping With Dementia

For patients living with the adverse effects of dementia, it can be difficult to recognize how cognitive impairment negates the ability to remain independent. In the beginning phases of this disorder, the patient may notice slight decline in his/her self. As the dementia progresses, family and caregivers of the individual will be tasked with enduring the devastating changes and loss of autonomy their loved one is suffering with.

The ability to cope with this disorder is often difficult, especially if the individual is being cared for by family. Family members may be overcome by the mounting responsibilities placed on their shoulders while providing care to an individual with dementia. It is essential for the caregivers to receive help with as well as time away from the direct care of their loved one in order to remain effective. Familial caregivers often find themselves at the brink of exhaustion when providing care to their loved one, while at the same time attempting to balance typical responsibilities such as work and caring for their immediate family members.

One of the first obstacles in living with dementia is the realization that the individual cannot care for themselves in a safe and appropriate manner. This brings into question the need for alternate living arrangements for the patient. It is common for close family members to take their loved one into their own home(s) in order to be available around the clock. While this option seems to be a viable solution in the beginning stages of dementia, as decline in mental and physical health accelerates, the more difficult it becomes to care for the individual without professional assistance.

Caregiver Help And Assistance

In order to effectively render care to an individual living with dementia, family and friends will arrive at a point in the progression of the disorder where outside help is required. Support and care may be obtained through several different sources. Professional caregivers such as those who offer supported living assistance may be the first line in the procession of help. They may offer services such as respite, daily living skills assistance, and hygiene support to the individual with dementia.

Remaining Independent

A diagnosis of dementia need not interfere with the individual’s ability to remain independent for as long as they are capable of doing so. Remaining active and social can also help dementia sufferers retain mental clarity longer than those who have no outside interactions with others.

Home Health Care Services Las Vegas, NV - Visiting Angels | Call (702) 562-3322

Visiting Angels Las Vegas

Home Health Care Services Las Vegas, NV - Visiting Angels | Call (702) 562-3322

home care on Google Plus

Home Health Care on Google Plus Local

Senior Care on Facebook

Elder Care on Twitter

Rehabilitation on Linkedin

Dementia Care on Show Me Local

Alzheimers Care on Brownbook

Nursing Home Care on MerchantCircle

Disability Care on Insiderpages

Home Care on Hotfrog

Home Health Care on EZ Local

Senior Care on My Huckleberry

Elder Care on Manta

Assisted Living on Google Plus Profile

Dementia Care on Youtube

Alzheimers Care on Picasa

Nursing Home Care on Blogspot

Home Health Care Services Henderson, NV - Visiting Angels | Call (702) 407-1100

Visiting Angels Henderson

Home Health Care Services Henderson, NV - Visiting Angels | Call (702) 407-1100

home care on Google Plus

Home Health Care on Google Plus Profile

Senior Care on Facebook

Elder Care on Twitter

Rehabilitation on Linkedin

Dementia Care on Show Me Local

Alzheimers Care on Brownbook

Nursing Home Care on MerchantCircle

Disability Care on Insiderpages

Home Care on Hotfrog

Home Health Care on EZ Local

Senior Care on My Huckleberry

Elder Care on Manta

Rehabilitation on Youtube

Assisted Living on Picasa

Dementia Care on Blogspot