What is Dementia?
Dementia is not a disease. It is a group of symptoms caused by other conditions. It is a very broad term for losing your thinking ability that is bad enough to affect your daily life.
About 5-8 percent of adults over 65 have some form of dementia. This number doubles every 5 years after the age of 65. Alzheimers disease is the most common cause of dementia. 70-80 percent of people diagnosed with dementia also have Alzheimers disease. Dementia is caused by damage to the brain cells.
What are the risk factors for dementia?
There are many risk factors of dementia.
- Age
- Family history
- Illness like sleep apnea, Diabetes, down syndrome
- Depression
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Poor diet
- Brain injuries
Interestingly, dementia can also impact children? Childhood dementia is a result of progressive brain damage caused by over 100 rare genetic disorders.
Tips in dealing with a loved one with dementia.
Establish a Routine
Maintain a consistent schedule for daily activities like meals, bathing, and bedtime. Predictability can reduce anxiety.
Encourage Independence
Allow the person to do tasks they can manage safely. Break tasks into simple steps and offer assistance when needed.
Create a Safe Environment
Remove potential hazards such as sharp objects or slippery floors. Consider installing locks on cabinets containing dangerous items.
Communicate Clearly
Use simple language and speak slowly. Maintain eye contact and offer reassurance. Avoid arguing or correcting them if they're confused.
Be Patient and Flexible
Understand that the person's behavior may fluctuate. Stay calm and adapt to their needs, even if it means changing plans.
Provide Cognitive Stimulation
Engage them in activities they enjoy, like puzzles, music, or crafts. Stimulating their mind can help maintain cognitive function.
Encourage Social Interaction
Arrange visits with friends, family, or participation in group activities. Social engagement is vital for emotional well-being.
Monitor Health
Keep track of medications, attend regular medical check-ups, and watch for signs of discomfort or illness.
Stay Positive
Focus on the moments of joy and connection you share with the person. Celebrate small victories and cherish the time you spend together.
Contact BrightStar Care® of Chesapeake & Virginia Beach
Looking into caregiving services may be overwhelming, but with BrightStar Care® of Chesapeake & Virginia Beach we ensure to make the process so much easier for you.
We are confident that our team of professionals will assist you in looking for the right caregiver to take care of your loved one by keeping you in the loop and more.
Contact us today to learn more about caregiving services! Our office is located at 816 Greenbrier Circle, Ste 208 Chesapeake, VA 23320 You may also call us at 757-227-4047. We look forward to hearing from you!