In a busy life schedule, forgetting small things every once in a while becomes a part of everyday life. Whether it is misplacing keys or important documents, we all make such mistakes. But when memory loss goes beyond these harmless slips, it might signal something more serious. Dementia is a deep mental fog that gradually affects the memory, thinking ability, and more.
Contrary to a lay person’s understanding, dementia is not a disease in itself; rather, it is a result of several other conditions that slowly affect the normal functioning of the brain. Managing dementia first requires you to understand it.
Observing Early Signs of Dementia
Dementia grows gradually but not always silently. However, despite early signs and symptoms, many confuse it with normal ageing, which often leads to ignorance and increases the severity.
Here are some dementia symptoms that might signal the onset of dementia:
- Memory Loss
Memory loss to the extent that it disturbs everyday life. This can include forgetting recent conversations or repeating the same questions.
- Language Problems
Language problems, such as finding the right word in a conversation, and overall cognitive decline are a common symptom of dementia.
- Hampered Daily Chores
Persistent difficulty in performing everyday chores or familiar tasks such as making tea or ironing clothes.
- Personality and Behavioural Changes
Personality and behavioural changes are evident in individuals suffering from dementia. These changes can include increased irritability, withdrawal from social activities, suspicion, etc.
The Causes of Dementia: Looking Inside the Brain
In a nutshell, dementia develops when brain cells lose their ability to communicate effectively. This usually happens because of the damage or death of these brain cells that results in losing the ability to think, reason, remember and regulate behaviour.
Dementia can be of different forms, and it impacts the brain in different ways. Let’s take a look at different types of dementia and how they impact the brain:
- Dementia that involves protein buildup. This interferes with the normal functioning of the brain.
- Reduction in blood flow can also lead to dementia. In many cases, this has been linked to strokes.
- In some cases, the frontal area of the brain gets damaged, resulting in personality and language changes. This form of dementia is also known as frontal lobe dementia.
- Some can be both thinking and movement-linked dementia.
Even though dementia can be of different forms, and it can impact the brain in different ways, one thing that remains common across all spectrums of dementia is the progressive damage to brain function.
Observing the Gradual Growth of Dementia
Dementia is largely linked to a gradual damage of the brain functioning due to several reasons. It progresses slowly over the years. Understanding the different dementia stages and how it impacts an individual makes it easier to deal with the physical and emotional changes.
The progression can be broadly categorised into three stages of dementia:
- Early Stage
Usually, at the early stage of dementia, individuals face certain challenges, such as mild memory problems, misplaced items, slight confusion, etc. At this stage, independence is usually not a problem.
- Middle Stage
As dementia progresses in an individual, difficulty with communication and frequent mood changes become evident. Additionally, there is a growing need for help with everyday activities.
- Later Stage
In the latest stages of dementia, severe memory loss, reduced mobility, inability to recognise loved ones, and the need for full-time care are common.
Is Dementia Preventable?
As of now, there aren’t any set preventive measures that can guarantee dementia prevention. However, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the chances of developing dementia. These include:
- Performing Physical Activities
Performing physical activities, whether it is going to the gym, walking, yoga, etc., is helpful in supporting overall heart and brain health.
- Active Social Participation
Active social participation, whether it is conversation or participating in shared activities, helps in keeping the brain functioning, smooth and active.
- Engaging in Mentally Stimulating Activities
Engaging in mentally stimulating activities might also be helpful to prevent dementia. This can include solving puzzles, reading every day, or learning new skills.
- Managing Underlying Health Problems
In some cases, dementia can also be a cause of underlying health issues. Managing health conditions, such as diabetes, cholesterol or high blood pressure, can also be helpful.
- Taking a Nutritious Diet
Taking nutritious and wholesome diets to support brain health is crucial.
Practical and Compassionate Support for Someone with Dementia: What You Can Do.
A person suffering from dementia is dealing with several changes that can be distressing. In such situations, offering them support in the form of patience, structure, and empathy can be helpful.
Here are some dementia care suggestions to make the life of a person suffering from dementia slightly easier:
- Maintaining a consistent routine to provide comfort and predictability
- Organising and labelling spaces to reduce confusion
- Responding with calmness and patience, even during difficult moments
- Encouraging engagement through music, art, or gentle conversation
- Ensuring caregivers also take breaks and seek support
Bringing Awareness and Strength
Dementia is an overwhelming, distressing brain condition. By understanding how it develops and the kind of support a person suffering from dementia needs, we can make dementia a little less overwhelming.
If you or someone you know is suffering from such neurological problems, it is best advised to seek medical assistance. Dr Arun Karthik’s clinic is developed to offer support through and through. Book a consultation today or walk into our office for an initial consultation.
