Understanding Dementia: Types, Stages, Treatments, And Care

1. Understanding Dementia: Types, Stages, Treatments, And Care Our memory can naturally decline with age, but some people would develop a condition called, ‘dementia,’ which also causes problems with thinking and reasoning. Individuals can develop it when parts of their brain for memory, learning, language, and decision-making become diseased or damaged. One of the most common causes of dementia in San Antonio Texas is Alzheimer’s. Here are more facts you should know about this condition, so you can understand it better, especially if you have loved ones who are affected by it: Types There are about 50 other known conditions that can cause dementia. Dementia in San Antonio TX can be divided into two groups based on the part of the brain being affected, although some dementias can occur in both parts: 1. Cortical dementias –These occur due to issues in the brain’s outer layer known as the cerebral cortex, which is responsible for language and memory. People with these kinds of dementia typically experience severe memory loss, resulting in them being unable to understand the language or recall words. Creutzfeldt-Jakob and Alzheimer’s are some examples of these dementias. 2. Subcortical dementias – These occur due to issues below the cortex, resulting in changes in their ability to initiate activities or think. Language problems and forgetfulness are common consequences. HIV, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s, can cause these dementias. Stages People who have dementia in San Antonio Texas would typically go through the following stages, although it may vary due to the affected area of the brain: 1. No impairment – Tests may reveal an issue despite the absence of symptoms. 2. Very mild decline – You may start seeing slight changes in behavior, although the person will still remain independent. 3. Mild decline – More changes will occur in the reasoning and thinking. Your loved one may start having trouble making plans, and they may repeat themselves a lot. It may be hard for them to recall recent events, too. 4. Moderate decline – Symptoms of mild decline will worsen, and your loved one may start having difficulty handling money and traveling. 5. Moderately severe decline – Your loved one may start forgetting their phone number or names of their grandchildren. They may be confused about the day of the week or the time of day. They may start requiring assistance with some of their day-to-day functions, like choosing clothes to wear. 6. Sever decline – Your loved one may not recall the name of their spouse, and they will require assistance in eating and toileting. You may notice changes in their emotions and personality. 7. Very severe decline – Your loved one may be bedridden due to inability to walk, and unable to speak their thoughts. Treatment

2. Doctors can treat whatever is causing dementia in San Antonio TX. The condition may be reversible if it is caused by tumors, drug or alcohol abuse, metabolic disorders (i.e. vitamin B12 deficiency), hypothyroidism, subdural hematomas, HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders, and hypoglycemia. Treatment for the symptoms of other forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s, may improve them, but will not directly cure the condition, which gets worse over time. Care Dementia care facilities in San Antonio Texas can help your loved one who is being affected by this condition. Rather than residential or hospital care, consider assisted living that will allow your loved one to maintain their dignity, while living their life to the fullest. Rest assured, they will be cared for by a qualified staff, with their physical and emotional needs provided for in holistic ways.