What is Dementia

Dementia is an Umbrella Term 

If you have an aging loved one, you are likely in-tune with the changes that are happening as the years pass. You might notice that he or she has more difficulty doing things they once did, but if you begin to notice memory problems, you’ll likely wonder if your loved one is showing signs of dementia.

While some memory problems can be normal for aging, dementia is not a normal part of aging. In patients where dementia has been diagnosed, there is a marked decline in cognitive function, and this decline generally worsens.

Dementia isn’t diagnosed with a test, as there are no genetic markers or other indicators. Instead, they examine the patient’s medical history, any tests, and general physical condition. Then, they also consider what the patient is experiencing, and much of this rests on the observation of a loved one.

Dementia is an umbrella term that includes a number of symptoms pertaining to a decline in cognitive function. Forgetfulness and memory loss are among the most commonly reported symptoms. Dementia in itself is not a disease, but it’s a term used to describe symptoms such as memory loss and a decline in communication skills and cognitive function. While dementia is not a disease, it can be a sign of an underlying disease. For instance, more than half of dementia patients also have Alzheimer’s Disease.

Nearly 50 million people around the world have dementia. Many people wonder what it feels like to have dementia. In reality, someone with dementia feels confused. This feeling comes and goes, but dementia patients get this feeling more and more often. They get emotional, agitated, sad, aggravated - and they aren’t able to express why.

Clinicians will look for a set of symptoms to help diagnose dementia. For instance, some of the symptoms of dementia include disorientation, personality changes, loss of interest in hobbies and normal activities, misplacing items, and difficulty socializing.

As it stands, there is no treatment for dementia. Once someone has it, they will have it for the rest of their lives. The keys to coping with dementia rest in palliative care. Dementia patients need the support of those around them. Medical staff and caregivers can provide strategies for coping, as well as activities designed to help with cognitive function and speech.

If you have a loved one who is showing symptoms of dementia, encourage them to get checked out just to be sure.
Mackenzie Kelly
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