Understanding Dementia and Spotting the Early Signs

Dementia is viewed as an inevitable part of aging, which is understandable as it affects around 982,000 people in the UK. However, just because it is unfortunately common does not mean it’s a guaranteed symptom of getting older.

Regardless of its commonality, noticing changes in your loved one, or even yourself, is frightening. But awareness is key. By catching symptoms early, you can take control and start fighting back against it.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is not a singular disease. It is used as an umbrella term to describe a range of symptoms related to the decline of brain function. This most commonly includes memory loss and a decline in thinking skills. It is caused by damaged brain cells that can no longer communicate with each other effectively, which happens more commonly to those that are aging.

There are many different types of dementia; however, the most common is Alzheimer’s disease, which makes up 60-80% of cases. There are few other common types of dementia that you should be aware of, namely:

• Vascular Dementia. This is usually caused by a stroke and the consequent reduced flow of blood to the brain.
• Lewy Body Dementia. This mostly affects movement abilities, as well as leading to visual and audible hallucinations.
• Frontotemporal Dementia. This has a significant impact on personality and behaviour whilst memory is left unaltered in the early stages.

Unfortunately, there is no current cure for dementia. But this doesn’t mean that it’s a lost cause. Spotting the early signs and getting a quick diagnosis can make a significant difference in slowing down the progression of the condition and ultimately improving the life of the affected person.

With the correct treatment and support, many people can manage their dementia and continue to lead active, independent lives.

Photo by Centre For Ageing Better via Unsplash

Spotting The Early Signs

It can be difficult to differentiate between general aging and early onset dementia. As we get older, our mobility and memory does naturally decline, but this usually happens slowly and slightly. We encourage families to look out for persistent change that declines quickly.

As outlined by the NHS website, the main symptoms of dementia include:

• Memory loss. This is the most recognisable and well-known sign. It may involve forgetting recent conversations or their train of thought, asking the same questions or requiring reminders throughout the day.
• Mental sharpness and thinking speed. They may take longer to process and react to information. Concentrating for long periods of time will become difficult, alongside making simple decisions, leading them to become overwhelmed with simple tasks and daily activities.
• Communication struggles. They may stop mid-sentence and not be able to continue articulating what they want to say, as well as struggling to keep up with conversations or follow what others are discussing.
• Difficulty in understanding. This can become obvious through simple things like the plot of a film or understanding a joke.
• Issues with movement. Some types of dementia affect physical coordination and spatial awareness heavily, namely the way they walk and their balance.
• Reduced mood. People can become uncharacteristically anxious, irritable and depressed. This can lead to a less social lifestyle which can also have knock-on effects to the dementia progression.

Dementia can also manifest through a loss of interest in beloved activities, issues managing emotions or their behaviour, and even hallucinations or hearing things that are not there. Although the list of symptoms is varied, they all make maintaining independence very difficult.

Dementia Care At Mulberry Care Homes

At Mulberry, our team undergoes specialised training to support our residents dealing with dementia symptoms. Two of our homes across Kirklees (Southfield Court and White Rose House) are specifically designed to meet the needs of those living with dementia.;

We don’t believe in simply managing dementia, but helping our residents to live fulfilling lives regardless of how severely their symptoms have progressed. We ensure our staff understand certain behaviours such as increased agitation or ‘sundowning’ so that they can respond calmly and patiently, de-escalating any situation that is thrown at them.

To help our dementia residents live happily and healthily, we use reminiscence therapy throughout our activities to keep memories alive, encouraging nostalgic conversations and story-telling. We also value routines, as a structured day can make a huge difference in reducing anxiety for those living with memory loss.

We also understand how difficult it can be for the families of our dementia residents, and we’re here to support you as well. If you’re considering moving a loved one that is suffering with dementia into a care home, then we’re here to take the weight off your shoulders. You can be sure that they are receiving the care and extra support that they need.

Visit our page here to read more about our specific dedications to providing dementia care.

A dementia diagnosis is not the end of a life. You just have to prioritise support and care. If you are concerned about your loved one that is suffering from dementia, or you need assistance in caring for them, don’t hesitate to contact our team today. We are here to talk, whether simply for advice or to book a tour at one of our dementia-centred homes.