Dementia
What is Dementia β
A progressive condition which causes deteriorating mental function π§
Interferes with activities of daily living
Alzheimerβs disease and vascular dementia are common types π―
Frontotemporal dementia & dementia with Lewy bodies are other subtypes
Risk factors: older age, genetics, prior health, lifestyle and cognitive issues or disability π§
What are the Symptoms of Dementia β
Memory problems
Difficulty understanding/learning π
Disorientation with new environments/people
Negative mood changes π‘
Delusions/hallucinations
Sleep issues π
Difficulty with self-care
How do you Diagnose Dementia β
Patient symptoms and cognitive assessment π
Exclude alternate cause (with blood/urine tests and chest scans)
Referral for specialist assessment π₯
MRI scan to confirm and identify dementia type
How do you Treat Dementia β
Group programmes to help cognitive function π£
Medicine to reduce symptoms
Various therapies (e.g. animal therapy) π
Why should I Worry about Dementia β
There is currently no cure
High disability and dependency on others πͺ
Can lead to issues like psychosis, insomnia
Can increase likelihood of death
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