Dementia in the elderly
Dementia is also known as major neurocognitive disorder or MNCD. It refers to a set of symptoms that affect the functions of the brain. It can affect a person's memory, reasoning, understanding, language skills, and judgment, among other things. This can lead to loss of autonomy. There are many forms of dementia.
Although it primarily affects people over the age of 65, dementia is not a normal part of aging. It usually sets in gradually.
Over time, it affects different aspects of a person's autonomy. Symptoms may include:
- A tendency to forget things
- Losing track of time
- Getting lost in your home
- Difficulty communicating
- Asking the same questions over and over
- Needing help with personal hygiene
- Difficulty walking
- Difficulty recognizing family and friends
Causes and triggers
The exact cause of the different forms of dementia is not known. Aging is the most important factor. People who have a parent with the disease are at greater risk.
Dementia is also associated with several other diseases, including the following:
- Alzheimer's disease
- Cerebrovascular accident (stroke)
- Lewy body dementia
- Parkinson's disease
- Huntington's disease
- HIV
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Syphilis
Treatment
Certain medications are available to improve symptoms. However, they do not cure the disease and are not effective for all forms of dementia.
The following measures may help prevent or minimize the impact of dementia:
- Stay physically active
- Stop smoking
- Stay intellectually active (especially after retirement)
- Effectively treat diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, and high cholesterol
- Limit your alcohol consumption
- Prevent hearing loss
- Ask friends and family members for help
- Spend time with friends and members of your community
When should I see a health care professional?
Speak with your health care provider if you or a loved one are experiencing any of the following:
- You tend to forget things such as the following:
- Recent events
- People's names
- You get lost in places you used to know
- You lose track of time
For more information:
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The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.