Sadly, over 650,000 adults in the US are affected by dementia – it’s most common in adults over the age of 65, with more women being affected than men. If you’re over 80, the chances of you developing dementia are one in six, with one in three people experiencing it before they die. It’s a frightening reality that many of us will suffer from this condition at some point in our lives.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is caused by Alzheimer’s disease, and is a slow decline in the functioning of your brain. Damaged brain tissue builds up, causing surrounding cells in your brain to die, affecting your memory and behaviour. It’s still not known what causes the condition, although risks increase with age, and those with a family history of Alzheimer’s are thought to be most at risk. Symptoms of the condition can include:
- Changes in behaviour and personality – this can include depression and anxiety
- Memory loss
- Disorientation
- Struggling to find words when speaking
- Whilst there’s no cure for the condition, there is medication available which works to slow down the onset of the disease in some individuals.
Preventing Dementia
You can cut your risks of dementia or slow the onset of the disease by leading a healthy lifestyle – the following steps will help:
- Eat a nutritious, well balanced diet
- Quit smoking
- Reduce your alcohol consumption
- Take up an exercise regime to maintain your physical fitness
- Stay mentally active – crossword puzzles, reading and other brain activities can help
- Attend regular health checks
A treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia is an on-going process, Dementia Nursing Care in Orlando FL can help sufferers to maintain their independence and quality of life, by caring for them in familiar surroundings and providing them with the consistency of their everyday routine.
