Call Today! 253-539-3410
Dementia is a detrimental brain disease that affects millions of seniors throughout the US each year. While the effects are not the same between two individuals, the form of dementia they have could determine how quickly the disease progress.
Many seniors enjoy living independently. While the disease won’t stop them from living on their own for many years, there are symptoms and indicators of rapid decline. By becoming familiar with dementia and its various causes, seniors and their family members can learn what to look for and what symptoms to report to their doctors.
Memory care living is helpful for residents who are experiencing symptoms of degenerative neurological diseases. Examples of degenerative neurological diseases are Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and Lewy body disease.
Doctors monitor these conditions because they worsen over time and have different stages of development.
When reviewing the spectrum of dementia, and potential causes, the topic of vascular disorders and their effects may come up. Vascular diseases increase the risk of dementia. These conditions include traumatic brain injuries, central nervous system infections, and hydrocephalus or a buildup of fluid on the brain. Some vascular disorders that are reversible are subdural hematomas or blood clots, normal-pressure hydrocephalus, vitamin B12 deficiencies, hypothyroidism, and hypoglycemia.
A family history of dementia or any form of brain disease could indicate a predisposition to the disease and risks of developing dementia later in life. When assessing seniors who are exhibiting symptoms of dementia, doctors will inquire about their family medical history, and if a parent was diagnosed, there is a greater risk for the resident.
A poor diet, lack of exercise, and a history of smoking contribute to an unhealthy lifestyle and increase the risk of dementia. The risk factors associated with an unhealthy diet include hypertension, obesity, depression, and diabetes.
Studies also show that seniors who self-isolate and don’t socialize are at a higher risk of developing dementia. Foods that can contribute to dementia are processed meats, starches such as potatoes, and high sugar snacks present the greatest risks.
Many individuals succumb to the irreversible effects of drug and alcohol abuse disorders. While there are opportunities to recover from addiction successfully, some individuals never heal from the lasting effects of decades of drug or alcohol abuse.
Addiction can alter neuropathways in the brain and prevent the brain from healing completely. Vascular disorders are also possible for recovering addicts, and the effects could lead to a dementia diagnosis earlier in their lives.
Meningitis and syphilis require stringent treatments to eliminate the infections from the body and prevent lasting damage. If either of these conditions goes untreated, the person suffers permanent brain damage that increases the risk of a dementia diagnosis.
Residents in dementia care communities in Tacoma WA benefit from memory care services after a dementia diagnosis. The services provide residents with fun activities that improve recollection and help them stay focused and concentrate more effectively. Cognitive abilities decline throughout the many stages of dementia, and any games or activities that help the person retain more information are a must.
Pioneer Place Memory Haven is a wonderful community for seniors who have been diagnosed with dementia and related disorders. Families and seniors can learn more about assisted living in Tacoma WA by scheduling a tour of the community now.