DEMYSTIFYING DEMENTIA

Dementia is a complex condition that impacts millions of people around the world. It isn’t just one disease; rather, it’s a term used for a range of symptoms linked to a decline in cognitive function. This decline affects daily life activities and can create significant challenges for those living with the condition, their caregivers, loved ones and the community in which they live. As the number of dementia cases increases across the globe, it is crucial to create awareness and provide helpful information about the complexities of this condition. With a clearer understanding, we can build more empathetic communities and provide loved ones and caregivers with the requisite knowledge to support people living with dementia.

What is Dementia?

Dementia describes a decline in cognitive ability severe enough to disrupt daily life. The most common type is Alzheimer's disease, but other forms exist which includes vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. .

The most common symptoms of dementia include:

Memory loss
Difficulty communicating
Impaired reasoning
Changes in mood or behavior
Problems with visual-spatial abilities

These symptoms create a mixed experience for individuals living with dementia and very often leads to confusion, fear and misunderstandings. There is very limited data on Dementia in Nigeria and the burden of dementia is not widely understood yet but a 2019 publication by Pubmed indicates that approximately 4.9% of Nigerians are living with one form of dementia and it is found to be more prevalent amongst women than men. There is therefore an urgent need to create far reaching awareness and understanding amongst the populace which is what this write up seeks to achieve.

The Different Types of Dementia

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer's disease accounts for about 60-80% of dementia cases. It begins with forgetfulness, such as misplacing items or forgetting names. As the disease progresses, it may result in a complete inability to recognize familiar faces. As at 2024, an estimated 6.5 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's disease. and the number is projected to hit 13.8million by 2060.

Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia results from reduced blood flow to the brain, often after a stroke. It can lead to impaired judgment, difficulty with planning, and problems making decisions. This type accounts for approximately 10-20% of dementia cases.

Lewy Body Dementia

People with Lewy body dementia may experience visual hallucinations, fluctuations in attention, and movement issues. Around 1.4 million people in the U.S. are affected by this condition, which often complicates the diagnosis due to its overlap with other forms of dementia.

Frontotemporal Dementia

This type primarily impacts the frontal and temporal lobes and may cause changes in personality, behavior, and language abilities. Frontotemporal dementia can show up as early as in a person’s 50s or 60s, which distinguishes it from many other forms of dementia that typically affect older individuals.

The Impact of Dementia

Dementia does not only affect the individual; it also deeply impacts families and caregivers. The emotional toll of the diagnosis can be immense. Loved ones often face challenges in communication and emotional fluctuations. About 48% of caregivers report high levels of stress, which can affect their own health.

Balancing care while maintaining some normalcy in life is essential for both the individual with dementia and their family. Knowing that resources and support options are available can make a significant difference.

Recognizing Early Signs

Recognizing early signs of dementia can lead to timely interventions. Some early signs will include:

Loss of short-term memory
Struggle with completing familiar tasks
Confusion about dates or locations
Difficulty understanding visual and spatial information
Mood changes or personality shifts

Promptly consulting with healthcare professionals can result in an earlier diagnosis, which often leads to improved management of the condition.

Coping Strategies for Individuals and Caregivers

Coping with dementia involves various strategies that can enhance the quality of life for both those affected and caregivers.

For Individuals with Dementia

Create Routines: Establishing a daily schedule can add structure and predictability to life.
Assistive Aids: Adopting the use of assistive technology gadgets such as routine reminders, GPS trackers, dementia-support clocks, communication devices and other smart gadgets can enhance the wellbeing of persons living with dementia.
Engage in Activities: Activities that stimulate the mind—like puzzles, reading, journaling, music or arts—can keep cognitive abilities active.
Simplify Communication: Using straightforward language can help reduce confusion and enhance understanding.

For Caregivers

Join Support Groups: Connecting with other caregivers can provide emotional support and valuable shared experiences.
Prioritize Self-Care: Taking breaks and focusing on personal health is crucial for sustaining energy and well-being.
Keep Learning: Read about the condition, learn to adjust the care plan to suit the personality and care need of the care-receiver and follow medical research and progress on treatment options.
Be kind, considerate and loving towards the care-receiver.

Educating oneself about dementia can prepare caregivers for future challenges and improve care strategies.

Available Treatments and Support

While there is no cure for dementia, Neurologists have adopted various treatment options to alleviate symptoms and enhance the quality of life of patients. Medications might help with memory issues or related conditions such as depression and anxiety. For example, the use of donepezil (Aricept) can benefit some Alzheimer's patients nut must be used strictly based on doctors prescription..

Cognitive stimulation therapy has been shown to enhance cognitive function. Furthermore, incorporating physical activity and a balanced diet can support overall brain health.

Access to support networks—community programs, dementia support groups, activity centres, local outreach groups, and online forums—can assist loved ones in managing the complexities of dementia.

Debunking the Myths

Myth 1: Dementia is a normal part of aging.

While aging is a significant risk factor, dementia should not be considered a typical aspect of growing older. Many older adults maintain their cognitive abilities into their late years.

Myth 2: Everyone with dementia will experience memory loss.

Dementia symptoms can vary widely. Although memory loss is common, other issues—such as mood changes and language difficulties—can be equally prominent.

Myth 3: People with dementia cannot engage in meaningful activities.

Many individuals can enjoy activities they used to love with appropriate support. Finding ways to adapt these activities can greatly enhance their quality of life.

Understanding the complexities of Dementia

Dementia presents unique challenges for those affected and their families. Through education, recognizing symptoms, and employing effective strategies, we can create a more understanding environment for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

As research progresses, raising awareness plays a critical role in improving outcomes for millions of people living with dementia. Compassion and knowledge are essential for fostering communities that include and support those facing the challenges of dementia.