Beyond Alzheimer’s Disease: Why Dementia Is A Lot More Complex Than You Knew

Years ago, the term "senility" was often used to describe an older adult who showed signs of dementia. However, as research progressed and doctors learned more about the nature of dementia, they learned it has several different causes and is not, in fact, an inevitable part of aging. Although you may think you know what dementia is, it's a lot more complex than it first seems.

Losing your cognitive function or watching someone you care about decline mentally is devastating. Although Alzheimer’s Disease is the most well known form of dementia, there are also several other causes of dementia. Are you interested in finding out more about the different types of dementia?

Let's take a deep dive together into the complex and fascinating world of dementia, including treatment and how to help those with dementia.

Understanding The Basics Of Dementia

Regardless of the cause, if a patient is considered to have developed dementia, they have some common symptoms associated with dementia. Dementia involves a loss of cognitive functioning and may include a decrease in the ability to reason, think and remember. People with dementia may also display changes in their behavior and even their personality.

Although one of the most common symptoms of dementia is memory loss, there are also additional symptoms. In fact, for doctors to make a diagnosis of dementia, a patient must have two or more mental functions impaired. For instance, patients may present with memory problems and language impairment.

To understand the basics of dementia, it is also helpful to learn the risk factors for the condition. According to the Mayo Clinic, researchers have been able to identify certain risk factors for dementia. Advanced age appears to be one of the biggest risks for developing any type of dementia. People over the age of 65 are at the greatest risk. But it’s also important to understand that dementia is not part of the normal aging process.

Certain lifestyle choices can also increase your chances of developing dementia. For instance, people who drink large amounts of alcohol, smoke and are obese increase their risk of dementia.

The Difference Between Alzheimer’s And Other Types Of Dementia

When you think about dementia, the first condition that may come to mind is Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, but there are also several other types.

There are both similarities and differences between the different types of dementia. For example, many types of dementia cause similar symptoms, such as memory loss and confusion. In fact, similarities may make it difficult for doctors to confirm a cause of dementia at first.

One of the key differences between types of dementia is the cause. For example, Alzheimer’s may be caused by a buildup of plaque on the brain, but additional research is needed to definitively state a cause. Other forms of dementia, such as vascular dementia, have a clearer cause.

Vascular dementia is the second most common type of dementia and occurs due to damage from a stroke. When bleeding in the brain leads to a stroke, it can cause brain damage. That damage may include symptoms of dementia including loss of motivation, memory difficulties and impaired judgment.

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Certain progressive diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s may also eventually cause dementia. In some cases, a brain injury can lead to symptoms of dementia. Usually, dementia due to brain trauma occurs after repeated head injuries that cause concussions. Dementia from head trauma is most common is people who participate in certain contact sports, such as football and boxing. 

Living With Different Types Of Dementia

Regardless of the cause, it can be difficult for both patients and their families to receive a diagnosis of dementia. But knowing what is wrong can also help patients start treatment. Although there is currently no cure for most types of dementia, treatment that may possibly slow the progression of the condition is available. 

Dementia Treatment And Management Options

Different classifications of medications can slow symptoms of dementia. For instance, cholinesterase inhibitors work by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters that are involved in judgment and memory. Cholinesterase inhibitors are primarily prescribed to Alzheimer’s disease patient, but in some cases they may also be used to treat other types of dementia including vascular dementia. 

Vitamin E may also be used to treat patients with dementia. Although it is not specifically approved as a dementia treatment, it is an antioxidant, which may protect brain cells. A study published in the Journal of American Medical Association in 2014, indicates that patients who took high doses of vitamin E had a 19 percent slower decline in functioning than those who did not. 

Occupational therapy may also be recommended to help people with dementia improve their quality of life. Therapists teach patients various ways to adapt daily living activities and cope with the condition as it changes. For example, they may help patients and their families learn how to modify their environment to reduce noises and other distractions that can interfere with communication.  

Looking For People With Dementia: Caregiver Tips

In addition, since dementia often robs a person of their memory, they may forget who their spouse, children and friends are. If someone you shared your life with forgets who you are, it is often heartbreaking for the caregiver. People with dementia may also have changes in behavior and mood swings, which present additional challenges.

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If you are a caregiver to someone with dementia, it is essential you get the support you need to deal with the situation. Understating the person you are caring for cannot help their behavior may help. Additional suggestions for caregivers include the following:

• Ask for help: Caring for someone with dementia is not a one person job. It is easy to get burnt-out if you are doing everything yourself. Ask family or friends to lend a hand.
• Join a support group: Support groups can be a great resource providing practical tips and comradery.
• Use community resources: Ask your loved one’s doctor about resources in your area to help people with dementia. You may be able to find activity centers, respite care and more.
• Take care of yourself:  As a caregiver, you may be last on your list. But if you are not healthy emotionally and physically, you are a less effective caregiver. Take the time you need to exercise, eat right, sleep and recharge.