SEVEN (7) TYPES OF DEMENTIA
As we age most of us experience some health changes. Perhaps one of the most dreaded is memory loss. While some forgetfulness can be upsetting, it can also be a normal part of aging. All of us can misplace items and eventually find them. Someone with dementia may misplace an item by putting it in a place that is not logical – such as a refrigerator. They may also not know what a familiar item is used for. This is a brief overview of some of the early signs of dementia, some of the different types of dementia and resources to turn to for help.
Nine (9) Early Signs of Dementia
- Personality changes – such as irritability, depression, confusion or apathy
- Difficulty finding words
- Difficulty completing mental tasks that one was previously able to handle
- Confusion about people, places and times
- Often misplacing familiar objects
- Loss of interest in responsibilities
- Disorientation
- Expressing false beliefs
- Changes in judgement and trouble making decisions
If you notice some of these signs in either yourself or a loved one, getting a diagnosis is one of the first steps. One’s primary care physician is likely the best place to start. While there are no cures for most causes of dementia there may be if the signs are a side effect of some other cause – such as a medication interaction; a urinary tract infection; depression or drug and alcohol abuse. Other causes of dementia are usually progressive. Early diagnosis may give one time to find treatments that may delay symptom progression. It may also allow one to participate in research studies. It also will give family information on how to help and perhaps how to make future plans.
Some of the primary types of dementia
Alzheimer’s Disease – When we think of dementia most of us think of Alzheimer’s, which is the primary type of dementia among older persons in the US – up to 80% of all dementia cases. Most often Alzheimer’s is found in older adults. However, up to 6% of cases are early onset – occurring in people in their 40s or 50s, but sometimes even younger.
Six (6) Other Types of Dementia
While all dementias have many common symptoms, other dementias may have unique symptoms, treatments and timelines for progression. A correct diagnosis is very important. It is also important to understand that one can have more than one type of dementia at the same time.
Vascular Dementia – This is the second most common type of dementia. This is caused by a lack of blood flow to the brain. While stroke is the most common cause of vascular dementia, it can be related to Atherosclerotic disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and others. Symptoms can appear slowly or suddenly, with confusion and disorientation being early signs. This form of dementia can also cause vision problems and/or hallucinations.
Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD)– up to 70% of persons with Parkinson’s may eventually develop dementia. Early signs may be problems with reasoning and judgment. This form of dementia may also include hallucinations. PDD also includes the motor difficulties common to Parkinson’s such as shuffling, movement difficulty and problems with balancing and falling.
Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) – Both PDD and DLB are in the category of Lewy Body Dementia. When motor symptoms appear before dementia it is usually diagnosed as PDD. When cognitive symptoms appear first it is usually diagnosed as DLB.
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) – This involves several types of dementia which only affect the front and side parts of the brain, which control language and behavior. This was formerly called Pick’s disease, although there are other forms of FTD. It can cause loss of inhibitions and can cause compulsive behaviors.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) – This condition causes a buildup of excess fluid in the brain’s ventricles. NPH can account for as much as 6% of all dementias. If diagnosed early, this form of dementia may be curable.
Mixed Dementia – Occurs in persons with more than one type of dementia. This is very common – usually a combination of Vascular and Alzheimer’s Dementias.
All the above diseases have their own support and information organizations. Contacting the appropriate one after a diagnosis can give you and your family specific information relating to your condition. After an Alzheimer’s diagnosis or before a more specific diagnosis, contacting the National Alzheimer’s organizations or a local chapter can provide good information and resources. Please note that the above listing of dementia causes is not all-inclusive. There are other diseases that can also cause dementia, but are quite rare.
In Missouri and Metro East Illinois, you can contact the local Missouri Alzheimer’s Association chapter or call 314-432-3422
National Alzheimer’s Groups
National Alzheimer’s Association – https://www.alz.org 24/7 Helpline 800-272-3900
National Alzheimer’s Foundation – alzfdn.org 866-232-8484
These organizations offer information, local resources, support to families, info on latest research, and possible research studies.
Contacting one’s physician is crucial in understanding what you or your loved one is dealing with and how to find an appropriate diagnosis and possible treatment and support.
Pam Stone BSW
Care Manager
StaffLink
Pic Credit: www.freepik.com
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