As normally perceived, Dementia is not a part of normal ageing process and can affect even young individuals. Normal ageing is a different process when the person’s physical and mental faculties slow down. Many people do experience mild and gradual memory loss after fifty but severe and rapid memory loss is not a part of the ageing process. Many old people even in their eighty’s have fairly strong memory, are physically fit and have a positive approach to life.
Symptoms
The symptoms and progress of Dementia vary from person to person and depends of the type of Dementia and which part of the brain it has affected. The common signs of the onset of the disease can be recognized as per the below mentioned symptoms
- Memory loss specifically related to short term memory loss.
- Inappropriate behavior unmindful of surroundings
- Loss of powers of reasoning
- Marked mood swings coupled with depression
- Unable to carry out daily tasks like bathing dressing etc.
- Frequent disorientation and confusion in familiar surroundings
- Gait , motor and balance problems
When to seek treatment
Most people afflicted with Dementia are not aware if they are afflicted with the disease. Usually this condition is mistaken with other behavioral symptoms. It is friends or close family members who recognize the changes in the individual and take them for medical attention. The warning signs are when:
- People repeatedly start asking the same questions
- Look lost or is feeling disoriented in familiar surroundings
- Experiences difficulty in recognizing familiar people
- Experiences difficulty in following directions
- Gradual withdrawal or lack of interest in conversations, social interactions
- Starts neglecting personal hygiene
- Deterioration in one’s capacity to work and understand
- Forgetfullness
Treatment and care
There is no specific cure for people affected with Dementia as it is impossible to reverse the brain damage. But with proper medication, exercises and cognitive training, the progression of the disease can be reversed. In recent times a number of effective drugs have come in the market to treat various kinds of dementia.
Many people diagnosed with Dementia in its early stages are given specific mind tasks to improve various aspects of their cognitive functioning. People are also encouraged to engage in intellectually stimulating activities like solving crossword puzzles, playing chess, practicing musical instruments etc which lowers the risk of Dementia. Appropriate care in early stages can benefit the patient very much and improve their quality of life and make it easier for family members in dealing with them.
