Memory lapses sometimes accompany aging. Exhaustive searches for car keys
or glasses may end with them being in your pocket and on top of your head.
Forgetting the one item you needed from the grocery tries your patience.
Maybe most concerning of all—you don't remember a person's
name who you know well. Yet, you still remember the lyrics to "American
Pie."
You may brush these off as "senior moments." According to the
National Institute on Aging (NIA), forgetfulness happens at any age and
occurs more frequently as you age. However, ongoing memory loss or changes
in thought patterns and behaviors can indicate signs of dementia.
Dementia is the umbrella condition for a decline in mental function, with
Alzheimer's disease the most common form of dementia. The Alzheimer's
Association estimates more than 7 million Americans age 65 and older currently
live with Alzheimer's.
What are the different types of dementia?
The most common types include:
●
Alzheimer disease – This is the most common cause of dementia. It is a disorder in
which brain cells slowly die over time.
●
Vascular dementia – This happens when parts of the brain do not get enough blood.
It can happen when blood vessels in the brain get blocked with blood clots
or damaged by high blood pressure or aging. This form of dementia is most
common among people who have had strokes or who are at risk for strokes.
●
Lewy body dementia – This can cause problems with movement and balance along with memory
and thinking problems. Hallucinations and sleep problems are more common
with this type of dementia.
●
Frontotemporal dementia – Early symptoms can include personality and behavior changes. People
can also have trouble with language (speaking and writing).
●
Parkinson disease dementia – Parkinson disease is a brain disorder that affects movement. It
causes trembling, stiffness, and slowness. As Parkinson disease gets worse,
some people develop dementia.
●
Other causes of dementia – Dementia can also happen if a person's brain has been damaged.
For example, having many head injuries can lead to dementia.
How is dementia treated?
Treatment depends on what kind of dementia you have. If you have Alzheimer’s
disease, there are medicines that might help some. If you have vascular
dementia, your doctor will focus on keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol
as close to normal as possible. This can help reduce further damage to
the brain.
Currently, there are no cures for the disease, but there are treatments
that may change disease progression, and drug and non-drug options that
may help treat symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's
A guide from the Alzheimer's Association lists 10 early signs and symptoms
of the disease:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Challenges with planning or solving problems
- Difficulty with everyday tasks
- Confusion over time or place
- Coordination problems
- Trouble with thoughts, words or understanding others
- Misplacing things in illogical places, unable to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgment
- Less energy; withdrawal from work or social activities
- Mood and personality changes
If you notice any of these signs in a friend, family member or even yourself,
make an appointment with your healthcare provider or contact the experts
at Thibodaux Regional Neurology Clinic at 985.493.3090.
Download a guide from the Alzheimer's Association to help you assess
possible dementia and Alzheimer's disease. They also offer a free
24/7 helpline to connect you with resources and support by calling 800.272.3900.