Introduction to Dementia Overview

A medical professional involved in the diagnosis and treatment of dementia. They may conduct psychiatric evaluations and assess for depression or other mental health conditions contributing to symptoms.

A category of dementia defined by mild cognitive decline and the ability to function independently with some assistance. Individuals in this stage can still engage in many daily activities, but may require support in specific areas.

A category of dementia defined by significant cognitive decline and the need for significant support with daily activities. Individuals in this stage may require assistance with basic tasks like dressing, bathing, and eating.

Changes in areas such as attention, memory, problem-solving, language, and motor skills that are characteristic of neurocognitive disorders. HCA's monitor these changes to help assess the progression of dementia.

Tailored plans of care based on the severity of dementia. These plans may involve different levels of assistance with personal care, communication, and safety based on the individual's needs.

Activities like puzzles, reading, or memory games that keep the mind active and engaged.

Managing chronic illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol through lifestyle changes and medication.

Building and maintaining strong social connections to combat loneliness and improve overall well-being.

Addressing depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

Medications that can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and manage symptoms. Examples include Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Memantine, and Leqembi.

A type of therapy where an occupational therapist helps individuals adapt their home environment and learn coping strategies to prevent accidents like falls.

Establishing a regular bedtime routine to improve sleep habits and potentially reduce nighttime behavior changes.

Using a calendar to help individuals remember appointments, daily tasks, and medication schedules.

A type of therapy that uses fragrant plant oils for therapeutic purposes, often combined with massage.

This therapy helps individuals with dementia by using dolls as companions, offering a sense of purpose and comfort, reducing anxiety and agitation.

This therapy involves creating art, focusing on the process instead of the outcome, to promote self-expression and wellbeing.

A calming, sensory-rich environment designed to reduce agitation, enhance relaxation, and improve emotional well-being for individuals with dementia.

The initial phase of dementia, characterized by mild cognitive decline and memory issues.

The second stage of dementia, characterized by significant cognitive decline, memory problems, and difficulty performing everyday tasks.

The final stage of dementia, characterized by severe cognitive decline, loss of most independent functions, and requiring significant assistance with care.

The progression of dementia can vary greatly from person to person, depending on factors like the type of dementia and individual health.

Abnormal protein deposits in the brain that can become toxic at high levels, contributing to Alzheimer's disease.

Twisted fibers in the brain that disrupt vital processes and eventually kill brain cells, a characteristic of Alzheimer's disease.

The process by which brain cells lose their ability to communicate with each other, leading to the symptoms of dementia.

A group of conditions characterized by decline in cognitive function, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior. Examples include Alzheimer's and vascular dementia.

A type of dementia caused by blockage or damage to blood vessels in the brain, leading to impaired blood flow.

A neuroimaging technique that allows scientists to see the brain's structure and activity in living patients, useful for studying dementia.

The study of the relationship between the gut microbiome and brain health, with potential implications for dementia.

A hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, these proteins might be influenced by gut bacteria and contribute to plaque formation in the brain.

The ability to recall past events, such as personal experiences or important dates.

The process of recognizing and identifying familiar people, such as family members or friends.

A feeling of uneasiness or anxiety, often accompanied by physical symptoms like increased heart rate or sweating.

Moving around without a specific purpose, often aimlessly or with repetitive behavior.

A state of agitation or restlessness, often characterized by fidgeting, pacing, or difficulty staying still.

The act of leaving a designated area without intention or awareness, often due to confusion or disorientation.

A state of being unsure of one's location or surroundings, often accompanied by confusion and disorientation.

A condition where someone experiences a significant decline in their mental abilities, making them lose memory, communication skills, and the ability to perform everyday tasks.

A state of confusion about time, place, and people, making it difficult to orient oneself.

Inability to process information effectively, leading to difficulty understanding or responding to situations.

Changes in emotional state, including detachment, reduced expressiveness, and difficulty communicating feelings.

Using physical actions like groaning or crying instead of words to express needs or feelings.

Inability to move freely, often confined to bed due to physical limitations.

Loss of control over bladder and bowel functions, requiring assistance with toileting.

Difficulties with eating and swallowing, increasing the risk of choking.