Dementia is not a single disease but an overarching term that refers to various cognitive impairments. This range of impairments affects thinking, behavior, memory, and a person’s physical abilities to perform daily activities. Various conditions that damage the brain cause the symptoms of dementia, including Lewy body dementia, dementia of the frontotemporal, and Parkinson’s disease dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common subtype of dementia.
Symptoms of Dementia
The various diseases and disorders under the umbrella of dementia are progressively worsening conditions, meaning that symptoms gradually worsen over time. Initially, daily tasks may be impacted; however, over time, individuals living with dementia may lose the ability to perform basic functions and even the ability to recognize loved ones.
The primary symptom of dementia is memory loss, especially losing short-term memories. In addition to short-term memory loss, other dementia symptoms may include challenges with:
- Judgment
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Physical coordination
In addition to these obstacles, individuals living with dementia may experience personality changes, unpredictable mood shifts, and confusion with day-to-day life.
Risk Factors for Dementia
Age is the biggest risk factor for dementia. The risk of developing dementia increases significantly after the age of 65 and continues to grow with age. Facets of an individual’s lifestyle and environment, like the choice to exercise, access to healthy food, and environmental exposure to toxins, can all play a part in increasing or decreasing an individual's risk. Family history is another key risk factor, especially for some forms of dementia, like Alzheimer’s disease.
Various Causes of Dementia
The cause of dementia symptoms depends on its type. For example, Lewy body dementia is linked to protein deposits that do not normally occur in the brain. Vascular dementia is caused by a reduction in blood flow to the brain caused by vascular issues like strokes. Alzheimer’s disease is connected to tau tangles and accumulating amyloid plaques in the brain. This accumulation impacts and impairs normal brain function.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Continued Care
Receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is incredibly difficult for everyone involved. Research indicates, however, that the earlier an individual is diagnosed and can begin receiving treatment, the better their outcome and quality of life may be.
While there is currently no known cure for dementia, managing symptoms through medication, caregiver support, and lifestyle interventions can slow the progression of symptoms and improve quality of life.
HarborView Name One of the Best Senior Living Communities in San Diego
We are committed to quality, personalized care at Harbor View Senior Assisted Living. We’ve even been named one of the best senior living communities in San Diego for three years running! To find out what sets us apart, give us a call and schedule a tour of our one-of-a-kind assisted living home located in Bankers Hill, San Diego.
HarborView’s Lush Gardens and Charming Accommodations
HarborView Senior Assisted Living operates out of an elegant, 30-bed, historic home originally built in 1927. Our thoughtful and thorough renovation preserved the beautiful historic features while adding all the necessary modern amenities to create a safe and spacious setting for your loved one. Our members enjoy lush gardens, a gorgeous patio area, fantastic views of downtown San Diego, and charming accommodations.
Comfortable Setting for Mobile Care Services
Our beautiful rooms and grounds offer an alternative to institutional care. They evoke an inviting, homey feel while still having enough space to accommodate specialized equipment for mobile care services. Our caregivers and staff are familiar with the providers and organizations that offer mobile care services for the elderly. We collaborate with them to ensure your loved one is comfortable and comprehensively cared for.
