Dementia is a general term for loss of memory and other mental abilities. It has always been a common affliction among the elderly, but has become more and more prevalent in recent years. Awareness, acceptance, early treatment and intervention are crucial to help slow and manage the effects of this potentially devastating problem.
Almost all types of dementia are caused by degenerative neurological changes in the brain. Dementia symptoms include difficulty with many areas of mental function including language, memory, perception, emotional behavior or personality and cognitive skills, such as calculation, abstract thinking or judgment. Depending on the area of brain affected, such as the outer or inner layers of the brain, dementia can manifest itself into very different diseases in different individuals.
The warning signs can be different depending on the underlying condition causing the dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for more than fifty percent of cases. In Alzheimer’s, symptoms develop slowly and become worse over time. A common early symptom is difficulty remembering newly learned information. The second most common causes of dementia are vascular disorders, such as multiple strokes in the brain. Symptoms show themselves quickly and include changes in personality, judgment, planning and social functioning.
Another frequently encountered related condition, although not classified as a type of dementia, is mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI is a mild decline in mental function noticeable by others, and frequently by the individual themselves, that do not interfere with everyday activities. MCI is generally thought of as normal forgetfulness due to aging, however, research has shown that individuals with MCI have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Dementia can be stressful for all involved. It is important that treatment to slow the progression of the disease and to manage its effects begin as soon as possible. It is also important to find support and resources for the caregiver and family. National organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) have excellent resources, such as the ten warning signs and updates on the latest research and treatments. Local chapters will help connect you to resources in your area for treatment, services and help finding care for your loved one, as can Santa Barbara Estate Services.
