Many of us suffer memory loss at various points in our life. But, if that memory loss becomes consistent, we have difficulty concentrating and it takes us longer than usual to complete everyday tasks, then it may be worth noting this and paying a visit to the doctor.
That’s because, although common, these can indicate a condition known as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Overtime the symptoms may worsen, indicating the onset of dementia, particularly if other symptoms are involved. These could be getting lost in a familiar location, finding difficulty expressing your thoughts, and losing interest in your usual activities or hobbies. In severe cases, hallucinations or paranoia may also be involved.
There’s no doubt that dementia is becoming a major 21st Century condition. This is due to more of us living longer, but it’s also as a result of better diagnosis.
What is dementia?
Dementia isn’t actually a condition in itself, but rather a series of symptoms that indicate a disease to the brain, such as Alzheimer’s. This is the most common form, but another well-publicised form is Vascular Dementia. In this case, the symptoms can vary from stroke-like paralysis to mood changes, such as depression. Other forms of the condition include Dementia with Lewy bodies and frontotemporal dementia.
There are, in fact, more than 200 forms of dementia. In the majority of cases, the symptoms become progressively worse over time.
Treatments for dementia
But that doesn’t mean an individual goes downhill after being diagnosed with the condition. These days there are treatments – medical and cognitive – that can help alleviate the symptoms of dementia.
Medical solutions. Drugs such as Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and Memantine are used to treat Alzheimer's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies and vascular dementia. In the later stages of the disease anti-psychotic medications can be used to help with hallucinations and extreme distress.
Cognitive care. Cognitive stimulation involves the individual with dementia engaging in memory games and group activities aimed at improving language and problem-solving skills. This also includes reminiscence work which, as the name suggests, involves taking trips down ‘memory lane,’ using old photographs, music and keepsakes.
Cognitive rehabilitation is getting the brain to use the parts that are still working to help manage the areas that are no longer functioning properly.
Technology solutions for dementia
As you might expect, technologies have been developed to make life living with dementia, easier than before. This includes Telecare systems such as movement sensors, fixed position alarms and timed pill dispensers.
You can also find dementia-friendly apps with reminiscence games and digital photobooks. Alexa-like devices can answer questions on the weather, bus timetables, the times of TV programmes etc.
How to cope with dementia
Staying socially active and continuing to engage in favourite activities, such as walking the dog and going to the theatre or meeting friends for coffee, helps those with the condition handle the symptoms better.
There are dementia-friendly groups in most communities where it’s possible to meet others and share tips on coping with the condition. The Alzheimer’s Society (AS) have produced a directory of meeting places here. For those who prefer online forums then Talking Point is the (AS) digital group for those who have the condition, while the Carers UK forum provides a an opportunity for carers to chat with others looking after a relative or friend with the condition.
Memory problems can be improved by keeping a regular routine, putting up a calendar with appointments and meetings etc jotted down, and putting house and car keys in an obvious place (rather than hidden in a drawer).
It’s still important to eat healthily, drink regularly and maintain an exercise schedule (preferably an activity which involves being outdoors).
