Dementia Awareness Week

Dementia Awareness Week

This week, May 21-27, is Dementia Awareness Week. This week raises awareness for people who have dementia. There are over 50 million people around the world that have some form of dementia.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain’s ability to process. Dementia is the larger umbrella term that encompasses more specific diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

According to the Mayo Clinic there are many symptoms that fit the general description of dementia. These symptoms include; memory loss, difficulty communicating words, disordered thoughts and planning, confusion, and difficulty with motor functions. There are also some psychological changes that are generally noticeable. These include anxiety, depression, mood, paranoid, hallucinations, agitation, and inappropriate behavior. If you think you may have any of these symptoms, or know of someone who fits the profile, please consult your primary care physician.

Sometimes dementia can be the result of lifestyle, or of existing hereditary causes. There are times when it can be from a deficiency of vitamins. Dementia is the result of a change in the brain which may be because of alcoholism, drug addiction, depression, and thyroid issues.

Tips to Managing Dementia?

1. Eat well
2. Exercise regularly
3. Practice memory games
4. Seek out therapy by a psychologist
5. Find a support group for both patients and their families
6. Remain calm and patient when dealing with someone with dementia
7. Show patient’s with dementia things that may trigger their memories
8. Keep a relatively cohesive routine
9. Schedule medications
10. Schedule any bills that need to be paid
11. Set reminders to eat

Final Thoughts?

Has this article helped to raise awareness for people with dementia? Do you feel as though you can help spread knowledge? Is there someone you have cared for with dementia? Are there any tips that we have missed on our list? Would you be interested in us writing an article on how to deal with people with dementia? Comment below.