Author: Candace Kastanis

At What Stage Of Dementia Does Sundowning Occur?

Candace Kastanis Blog, Signs , ,
at what stage of dementia does sundowning occur

We get many questions asking at what stage of dementia does sundowning occur? Unfortunately, it is a syndrome unavoidable for many.

Sundowning MOSTLY AFFECTS people with middle-stage or advanced dementia.

Individuals living with dementia may start to exhibit changes in behavior in the evening hours as the sun starts to set.

This type of behavior change is referred to as sundowning.

Generally, sundowning can be described as a GROUP of SYMPTOMS that may include confusion, agitation, irritability, and restlessness.

Affected persons will typically start to experience these symptoms around dinner time.

It can continue into the night.

Cause Of Sundowning

cause of sundowning
The cause of sundowning is not yet clear.

Researchers, however, believe that it is a result of a disruption in circadian rhythms which is the human natural body clock.

Circadian rhythms signal a person when it is time to sleep at night and when it is time to wake up in the morning.

If there is a disruption in this rhythm, it can be FRUSTRATING and IRRITATING which can make an individual act out through changed behavior.

Several factors may contribute to sundowning and these may include:

  • End-of-day exhaustion (both physical and mental)
  • Reduced lighting which can result in increased shadows causing persons with dementia to misinterpret things they see. This can make an individual feel more afraid and confused.
  • Disorientation when a person cannot separate dreams from reality when they are sleeping.
  • Less need to sleep
  • Lots of noise
  • Loss of routine
  • Prescription medication wearing off

Coping Strategies

If a person with dementia is experiencing sundowning, there are a couple of coping mechanisms they can use to help MAKE the situation better.

Keeping the Living Space Well-Lit

Adequate lighting especially in the evening can help reduce agitation which occurs when surroundings are unfamiliar or dark.

Maintain a Schedule

At what stage of dementia does sundowning occur?
People with dementia tend to do better when adhering to regular routines.

It is, therefore, important for caregivers to encourage affected individuals to maintain regular routines of sleeping, waking up, and meals.

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Sleeping Environment

An individual’s sleeping area should be as comfortable as possible.

This should include ensuring the bedroom has comfortable temperatures.

To INCREASE safety, caregivers can offer nightlights and make sure that window and door locks are secure.

Motion detectors and door sensors can alert loved ones when a person with dementia is wandering.

Plan Active Days

Persons with dementia who rest most of their days will have trouble falling asleep at night.

Discourage afternoon napping and instead schedule meaningful activities that affected individuals will ENJOY.

Where possible, include regular exercise and bathing in the early afternoon or morning so that the person can have a restful night.

Consult a Doctor

consult a doctor
At times, persons with dementia may have to seek professional assistance to help with sundowning.

The professional may help to identify the cause of sleep problems and come up with appropriate solutions.

Many physicians will encourage the use of non-drug measures instead of medicines. There are many alternative therapies that can contribute.

Closing Thoughts – At what stage of dementia does sundowning occur?

 

Research indicates that sundowning often occurs during the middle or late stages of dementia. Knowing this provides clarity for those wondering at what stage of dementia sundowning occurs.

Carers of people with dementia should be well-equipped to deal with these new developments by applying coping strategies to help loved ones effectively deal with sundowning.

By recognizing the timing and knowing the triggers of sundowning, carers can provide the support needed. This ensures the comfort and safety for patients.

Alzheimer’s Statistics: 10 Key Facts & Figures

Candace Kastanis Blog , , ,
Alzheimer's statistics and key facts illustrated by a tree losing leaves

Alzheimer’s statistics help show just how significant the disease has become for individuals, families, caregivers and the health care system.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia among older adults. While age is the greatest known risk factor, Alzheimer’s is not considered a normal part of aging.

The figures below draw on recent data from the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging (NIA).

Alzheimer’s Statistics and Key Facts

1. About 7.4 Million Americans Age 65 and Older Have Alzheimer’s

According to the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2026 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, an estimated 7.4 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia.

About 74% of them are age 75 or older.

This represents approximately 1 in 9 Americans age 65 and older.

The number is expected to continue increasing as the population ages. By 2050, nearly 13 million Americans could be living with Alzheimer’s.

For a broader explanation of the condition, see our Alzheimer’s disease guide.

2. Age Is the Greatest Known Risk Factor for Alzheimer’s

Age does not cause Alzheimer’s by itself, but the likelihood of developing the disease increases considerably as people get older.

The National Institute on Aging identifies age as the greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s.

Most people who develop the disease are 65 or older.

However, Alzheimer’s should not be considered an inevitable consequence of aging. Many people live into their 80s, 90s and beyond without developing the disease.

Our guide to the average age for Alzheimer’s disease looks at this relationship in more detail.

3. Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Are Not the Same Thing

Dementia and Alzheimer's disease are not the same condition

The terms Alzheimer’s and dementia are often used interchangeably, but they do not mean exactly the same thing.

Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a decline in memory, thinking and other cognitive abilities that interferes with daily life.

Alzheimer’s disease is a specific brain disease and is the most common cause of dementia.

Other causes include:

It is also possible for a person to have brain changes associated with more than one type of dementia.

4. Alzheimer’s Can Develop Before Age 65

Although Alzheimer’s is strongly associated with older age, younger people can also develop the disease.

When symptoms develop before age 65, it is generally called younger-onset or early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

The National Institute on Aging reports that fewer than 10% of people with Alzheimer’s develop symptoms before age 65.

Some rare genetic variants can strongly increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s at a younger age.

However, the vast majority of Alzheimer’s cases are not caused by one single inherited gene.

5. Almost Two-Thirds of Americans With Alzheimer’s Are Women

women and Alzheimer's disease prevalence statistics

Women account for almost two-thirds of Americans living with Alzheimer’s dementia.

Of the estimated 7.4 million Americans age 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s, approximately 4.5 million are women and 2.9 million are men.

One important reason is longevity. Women, on average, live longer than men, and older age is the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s.

Researchers continue to investigate whether biological, genetic and other factors may also contribute.

Lifetime risk statistics are also striking. At age 45, the estimated lifetime risk of developing Alzheimer’s dementia is approximately 1 in 5 for women and 1 in 10 for men.

You can also read about signs of dementia in women.

6. Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias Affect Population Groups Differently

Alzheimer's statistics by race and ethnicity in older Americans

There are significant differences in the prevalence of Alzheimer’s and other dementias among population groups in the United States.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, older Black Americans are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s or another dementia as older White Americans.

Older Hispanic Americans are about one and a half times as likely.

These differences do not necessarily reflect race itself as a biological cause.

Researchers continue to examine factors including cardiovascular health, access to health care, education, socioeconomic conditions, discrimination and other lifelong influences on brain health.

7. Alzheimer’s Is a Major Cause of Death

Alzheimer's disease is a leading cause of death in the United States

Alzheimer’s disease remains a major cause of death in the United States.

The Alzheimer’s Association reports that Alzheimer’s was officially listed as the fifth-leading cause of death among Americans age 65 and older in 2024.

Deaths attributed to Alzheimer’s more than doubled between 2000 and 2024.

Importantly, death certificates may not capture every death in which Alzheimer’s or another dementia contributed.

A person may ultimately die from complications such as pneumonia, infections, swallowing difficulties or other conditions associated with advanced dementia.

8. Survival After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis Varies Considerably

Survival after an Alzheimer's diagnosis varies considerably

There is no single life expectancy that applies to everyone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, people age 65 and older survive an average of around four to eight years after diagnosis, although some people live for as long as 20 years.

Survival can be influenced by:

  • Age at diagnosis
  • General physical health
  • Other medical conditions
  • Severity of symptoms when diagnosed
  • The rate at which the disease progresses

As Alzheimer’s progresses, people generally require increasing levels of help with everyday activities.

Support from family members and caregivers therefore becomes increasingly important.

9. Nearly 13 Million Americans Provide Unpaid Dementia Care

Alzheimer’s statistics also reveal the enormous impact the disease has on families.

Nearly 13 million Americans provide unpaid care for a family member or friend living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

During 2025, unpaid caregivers provided more than 19 billion hours of care.

The estimated economic value of this unpaid care was more than $446 billion.

Caregiving may involve:

  • Helping with meals and personal care
  • Managing medications
  • Providing transportation
  • Managing finances and appointments
  • Supervising a person for safety
  • Providing emotional support

As dementia progresses, caregiving demands can become substantial.

10. Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Costs Hundreds of Billions of Dollars

The financial impact of Alzheimer’s and other dementias continues to grow.

Health care and long-term care costs for Americans living with dementia are projected to reach approximately $409 billion in 2026.

This does not include the value of unpaid family caregiving.

Medicare and Medicaid are expected to account for a large proportion of these costs, while families also face significant out-of-pocket expenses.

By 2050, annual health and long-term care costs for people with dementia are projected to approach $1 trillion.

These Alzheimer’s statistics demonstrate that the effects of the disease extend well beyond the individual diagnosed.

Can Alzheimer’s Disease Be Cured or Reversed?

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease.

However, the treatment landscape has changed considerably in recent years.

Some treatments can help manage symptoms, while newer disease-modifying treatments may slow cognitive and functional decline in some people with early Alzheimer’s disease who meet specific treatment criteria.

This is different from reversing the disease or restoring brain function that has already been lost.

Alzheimer's statistics and facts about disease progression

Anyone experiencing persistent changes in memory, thinking or behavior should discuss them with a qualified health professional rather than assuming that they are simply part of getting older.

What Do Alzheimer’s Statistics Tell Us?

The numbers demonstrate the growing health, social and economic impact of Alzheimer’s disease.

More Americans are living long enough to reach the ages at which Alzheimer’s becomes more common. At the same time, advances in diagnosis, biomarkers and treatment are changing how the disease is identified and managed.

Statistics also help put the disease into perspective.

Alzheimer’s is not simply occasional forgetfulness. It is a progressive brain disease that can eventually affect memory, reasoning, communication, mobility and the ability to carry out everyday activities.

Importantly, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging.

Research continues into the causes of the disease, earlier diagnosis, risk reduction and treatments that may slow or eventually prevent its progression.

Related Articles

Alzheimer’s Disease: Complete Guide

Average Age for Alzheimer’s Disease: Key Facts

Dementia: Everything You Need to Know

Horse Therapy for Dementia (Is It Healing?)

Candace Kastanis Blog, Prevention , ,
horse therapy for dementia

It was a really pleasing experiencing witnessing horse therapy for dementia on several occasions.

Researchers are looking into whether this alternative therapy offers a healing hand to individuals with dementia for some time.

Sadly, to date, there is still no approved cure for dementia.

While looking for ways to treat or prevent dementia, professionals work with various methods to improve the quality of life for individuals with the illness.

One of the therapies that are gaining momentum for helping persons with dementia is horse therapy.

What is horse therapy? What does it involve? Does the therapy offer healing?

Read on to uncover answers to these questions and more.

Benefits of Horse Therapy for Dementia

benefits of horse therapy for dementia
Persons with dementia can get various benefits from horse therapy and some of them may include:

Stress Relief and Relaxation

Many people with dementia find it challenging to relax and let go of daily stressors. Taking care of or riding a horse requires concentration.

When a person is concentrating on the activity at hand, they will probably not be thinking of other factors that may be causing anxiety and stress.

Participants may NOT EVEN realize that they are letting go of their worries. When the session is over, a person may feel better and enjoy more clarity.

Improved Physical Health

When an individual participates in horseback riding, they will use muscles that they may not use in other contexts strengthening the muscles.

The activity also helps to build skills like balance, strength, and dexterity all of which are crucial for riding a horse. It can also be helpful for spine strength and mobility.

Horse riding is also rewarding when it comes to burning calories. Being an outdoor activity, the therapy offers fresh air and sunshine which are great for physical strength.

As a person starts to experience the physical benefits, it can also help them start to feel better emotionally and mentally.

Boosts Independence

While professionals in horse care often accompany participants undergoing horse therapy for dementia, this activity can help boost a person’s independence and self-esteem.

A single person can groom, feed, and ride a horse when they are comfortable with the task.

This gives individuals time alone with the horse and their thoughts perfect for persons looking for a quiet activity.

Completing tasks related to horse therapy also gives people a feeling of self-sufficiency and independence. Interacting with the horses also helps a person to feel needed.

Caring for a living being is a good way of making a person feel like they are CONTRIBUTING something worthwhile to the world.

Learning Something New

While it may be strange for a person with dementia to learn a new skill, it is important to take any chance that may help create connections in the brain.

People DO NOT NEED to have any experience on a farm or with horses to benefit from the therapy.

The hands-on learning exercises horse therapy offer helps to stimulate the brain more than watching a game show or working on a crossword puzzle.

What Makes Horses Ideal Candidates for this Dementia Therapy

what makes horses ideal candidates for this therapy
Paula Hertel co-founder of Connected Horse a human and animal interaction program explains that something special happens when people visit a horse barn.

They become more aware of the new smells, sounds, and horses as the animals welcome them to their space.

Horses have certain characteristics that make them IDEAL for this type of therapy and some of them include:

Unbiased and Non-judgmental

Horses will only react to a person’s emotions and behavior.

The animals are not biased by the individual’s past mistakes, abilities, or physical appearance, amongst others.

Horses will also NOT complain when a person asks the same question over and over.

This is an aspect that is critical to therapy because it helps increase self-confidence and self-esteem.

Mirroring and Feedback

Horses are keen observers thanks to their nature as herd or prey animals which makes them sensitive and hyper-vigilant.

It implies that their feedback is offered more consistently and earlier than when it comes from human therapists.

Horses also have an innate tendency to MIRROR a person’s physical movements, behavior, and emotions which helps participants become more aware of themselves.

An equine specialist can translate this type of feedback and the group can also analyze it.

Healing Power of Horses for Persons with Dementia (Studies)

studies on the healing power of horses for persons with dementia
There are a few studies that have been conducted on the perks of horse therapy for dementia and the most notable ones include:

Connected Horse and Stanford University

A pilot study was conducted by Connected Horse and Stanford University. This sought to help persons learn how to manage early-stage dementia through a series of workshops.

The professionals recruited persons living with mild cognitive impairment or dementia and their caregivers.

The participants joined a workshop that included activities like leading and grooming horses, awareness practices, and discussion groups.

Researchers carried out standardized tests before and after the workshops in a bid to measure the effects of the workshop on participants’ quality of sleep, stress levels, and ability to communicate and relate to others.

Initial results of the study revealed that participants scored HIGHER for better sleep quality, social support, and decreased depression and anxiety.

The results of the study will be used to come up with more resources to develop training materials, secure more equisetin sites, and get funding for developing new programs.

Ohio State University

Multiple departments at the Ohio State University collaborated to conduct a study on the therapeutic effects of spending time with horses on adults who have Alzheimer’s dementia.

The University collaborated with an adult daycare center and an equine therapy center.

They found that persons with Alzheimer’s the most common cause of dementia were able to feed, groom, and walk horses safely under supervision.

The researchers reported that spending time with horses helps to ease symptoms of Alzheimer’s dementia without using drugs.

The experts also stated that the experience enhanced mood made participants more open to caring, and led to fewer instances of negative behavior.

Church Residences Centre for Senior Health

At the daycare center, A national Church Residences Centre for Senior Health in Columbus recruited 16 residents who had Alzheimer’s (7 men and 9 women).

Eight of the clients once a week took a bus trip to a farm where they visited with horses under the supervision of their caretakers.

The residents bathed and groomed the horses, fed them grass and walked them.

The researchers reported that the persons with dementia enjoyed their time on the farm because they talked to the horses, laughed, and smiled more.

Horses work great to make a dementia patient happy.

This was seen even in the persons who usually acted withdrawn as they became fully engaged in the exercise. The therapy also BOOSTED physical activity.

Even though the clients had physical limitations, they were inspired to push boundaries once presented with the horses. The clients grew more physically active after visiting the farm.

The small study is from the journal Anthrozoos.

Horse Therapy for Dementia Closing Thoughts

While more research is still necessary regarding horse therapy for dementia, current results are promising.

This makes the therapy something worth looking into for people living with dementia and their caregivers.

Bonus: What is Horse Therapy?

what is horse therapy
Horse therapy also known as Equine therapy or Equine-assisted therapy is a treatment option that includes an equine environment and/or equine activities to promote physical, emotional, and occupational growth in people suffering from various medical issues.

These medical problems include a host of mental health issues. Like anxiety, ADD, autism, dementia, cerebral palsy, depression, traumatic brain injuries, genetic syndromes, behavioral issues.

Equine-assisted therapy is IN USE in mental and medical health fields by major countries.

This type of therapy can help individuals build communication, self-efficiency, confidence, trust, social skills, impulse control, perspective, and learn boundaries, etc.

The Anxiety Treatment Centre reckons that it is easy for ill persons to create a connection with horses because the domestic animals have similar behaviors with humans like responsive and social behaviors.

Horses can also mirror the feelings of a rider or handler. The large and intimidating appearance of a horse forces people to gain trust around them.

Horse Therapy Activities

horse therapy activities
There are different activities involved in horse therapy for dementia that offer therapeutic benefits and they include:

  • Horse riding
  • Stroking
  • Feeding the horse
  • Haltering and leading
  • Grooming

In some sessions, depending on the participants’ abilities and mood, a person may not even touch the horse.

Professional therapists often lead the sessions and set goals for their clients.

This can be something SIMPLE like putting a halter on the horse or leading the horse to a designated area.

The client will do their best to complete the task. And then discuss the ideas, thought-process, and problem-solving that were used to finish the task.

The discussions help IMPROVE language skills. Listening to the therapist helps enhance a person’s ability to listen and follow directions.

Dementia Risk Factors: Will You Get It?

Candace Kastanis Blog, Causes ,
dementia risk factors

It is essential to understand what dementia risk factors are the most common and what to do about them.

Everyone should carefully review them, as they can help with improving your overall life and health and possibly avoid or postpone the deadly disease.

Dementia Risk Factors and Prevention

WHO (World Health Organization) estimates worldwide, 50 million people have dementia and there are approximately 10 million new cases diagnosed each year.

With such a staggering statistic, understanding the risk factors and becoming educated may lower your chances of developing the condition.

What is Dementia Exactly?

what is dementia exactly
Dementia is an umbrella term used to categorize certain symptoms associated with abnormal brain changes such as memory loss and poor judgment.

The condition itself is not reversible and there is not yet a cure.

It is important to clarify dementia is a serious condition, and not a disease of senility or considered to be a normal part of aging.

The causes are related to damaged brain cells that impair cognitive function impacting the ability to perform daily activities such as:

  • Paying bills
  • Driving
  • Using the bathroom
  • Cooking
  • Taking medications
  • Communicating
  • Self-Care Practices

How is Dementia Diagnosed?

how is dementia diagnosed
There isn’t a single test administered to diagnose dementia. Rather, a clinical assessment is made to determine the ability to perform cognitive skills needed for independent living.

Types of Dementia

  • Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common form of dementia and makes up about 60-80% of all cases. progressive brain disease that affects approximately 5.2 Americans and the most common cause of dementia.
  • Vascular Dementia is the second most common and is also referred to as multi-infarct dementia. It is defined as brain damage caused by multiple strokes (blocked blood vessels which deprive the brain of oxygen). This type of dementia falls into a subcategory of brain diseases called FTLD or Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration.
  • Dementia with Lewy Bodies is a type of dementia that has distinct physical symptoms such as body stiffness, tremors, insomnia, and visual hallucinations.
  • Mixed Dementia is usually diagnosed at death. It occurs when there are multiple causes impairing brain function. At autopsy, the biomarkers typically reveal blocked blood vessels and a buildup of tau protein thereby confirming dementia as a diagnosis.

Dementia Risk Factors Explained

dementia risk factors explained

Alcohol

Medical experts state that excessive alcohol consumption over a long period of time can lead to a host of chronic health conditions including dementia.

Several studies have examined how alcohol impacts brain health.

A study in 2018 discovered alcohol holds potential to inhibits the body’s natural ability to clear amyloid plaque in the brain.

This explains excessive alcohol consumption as a potential risk factor for dementia.

Depression and Isolation

A major study conducted at Florida State University confirmed loneliness as one of the risk factors for dementia. They compiled data over a period of 10 years from approximately 12,000 participants.

The study results cited a 40% increase for risk for dementia as a direct effect of loneliness and depression.

Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes poses serious vascular-related health risks, including dementia. Diabetes damages the blood vessels and causes nerve cell death which leads to further degenerative conditions.

Furthermore, research has concluded that Alzheimer’s patients don’t use glucose properly.

The receptors that communicate how to use insulin fail thus complicating blood sugar management. The lack of oxygen also creates a challenge for effective cell communication.

Obesity

Research has concluded that being “fat” is a big risk factor associated with dementia.

The reason is that being overweight negatively impacts our vascular health.

Adipose (fat) tissues have the potential to cause narrowing within the arteries leading to heart attack or stroke.

Additionally, it can affect the way oxygen is used and transported to important areas of the brain causing irreversible damage.

Smoking

Smoking directly affects vascular health. This translates to challenges in blood pressure, heart function, and breathing, increasing the risk for stroke or heart attack.

The relationship between stroke as a vascular dementia risk factor is very high due to the lack of oxygen to the brain.

The lack of oxygen to the brain creates unseen damage affecting logical thought, memory, judgment, and behavior.

Hearing Loss

The exact relationship between hearing loss and dementia is still being explored.

Researchers conclude dementia is worsened by the loss of hearing. They also indicate in some cases; hearing loss is misdiagnosed as dementia.

Studies also cite the risk for developing dementia doubles in individuals with minor hearing loss, and triples in those with moderate loss.

Sleep Apnea

Research has shown that irregular breathing patterns seen in sleep apnea patients can cause a buildup of beta-amyloid plaques. These disease-related proteins are the major biomarkers represented in Alzheimer’s cases.

NIH has specified untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea or OSA as a risk factor for dementia due to compromised oxygen intake and stress on the body.

Sitting for Long Periods of Time

Medical experts agree have always known the lack of physical activity can lead to many health complications.

Engaging in a consistent exercise regimen tops the list of things you can do to avoid the risk of dementia.

A clinical study conducted at UCLA concluded that sitting for long periods of time reduces the thickness in certain areas of the brain that forms new memories.

How To Lessen Your Risk Factors for Dementia?

what are some of the things you can do to lessen your risk factors for dementia
By educating yourself and partnering with your medical doctor, you can help to lessen your risk for dementia and other chronic diseases.

Top medical experts recommend the following self-care practices to stay healthy and reduce your personal risk for developing dementia.

  • Find a way to incorporate exercise into your daily life.
  • Consume nutrient-dense foods whenever possible. Experts advise adopting a Mediterranean style diet to ward off dementia and other chronic health conditions.
  • Enjoy time with friends and family. Socialize and keep your brain active with stimulating activities such as board games, cards, or reading. A study indicates the risk of board game players is 15% less than that of non-board players.
  • Manage your weight and stay within the recommended guidelines for blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol, and blood sugars.
  • Get treatment for any sleep disorders, if necessary. There are many modern treatment solutions available for sleep apnea.
  • If you are showing signs of depression, please reach out to a medical professional for treatment.

Conclusion

Healthcare management cites dementia as a leading cause of disability and care dependence.

Additionally, the projections for dementia cases worldwide are slated to be at 131 million affected persons by the year 2050.

With an ever-pressing need for answers, the research community is committed to finding improved treatment solutions for Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementia-related conditions.

Clinical study participation and improved technology assist scientists to better understand the complex actions of the brain.

They also serve to develop new drug therapies and to identify new possible risk factors associated with dementia.

Dementia And Incontinence [Causes & Treatment]

Candace Kastanis Blog, Signs , ,
dementia and incontinence

How closely related are dementia and incontinence? Are people with dementia at a higher risk of experiencing toilet problems?

You will learn it all through this extensive article that covers causes, treatment and provides tips.

What is Dementia? A Quick Overview

Dementia is a common affliction characterized by a group of conditions related to brain impairment.

A person experiencing dementia experiences a host of conditions that coincide directly to the loss of memory and cognitive judgment.

A statistic from the CDC indicates the condition of dementia affects as much as 5.8 million Americans.

Dementia is caused by the degeneration of the cerebral cortex region of the brain. This occurs by head injury, stroke, brain tumors, and other factors not yet fully understood.

Of note: Alzheimer’s Disease is noted to be responsible for 60-70% of dementia in adults.

Common traits and symptoms for adults diagnosed with dementia include:

  • Forgetfulness
  • Limited desire or ability to socialize with others
  • Trouble speaking
  • Difficulty performing daily tasks and responsibilities
  • Compromised muscular function
  • Depression
  • Mood Swings and/or Anger
  • Disorientation or Confusion

Is it Common for Patients to Experience Incontinence?

is it common for patients to experience incontinence
Yes. Patients with dementia will typically have more issues with incontinence compared with someone of the same age.

The main reason is that they tend to have trouble connecting with the impulses to go to the bathroom.

There are many unknowns about the exact scientific relationship between dementia and incontinence.

Is There a Cure for Dementia?

Researchers are searching for answers for cures, new treatment options, and more advanced knowledge of these conditions and more.

To date, there are many clinical trials underway and progress is being made. We have seen many advancements in the way of diagnostic and imaging technology in addition to identifying important biomarkers.

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Inspire Washable and Reusable Incontinence Chair or Bed PadsInspire Washable and Reusable Incontinence Chair or Bed PadsWashable/reusable
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Depend Mens Maximum Absorbency UnderwearDepend Mens Maximum Absorbency UnderwearBrand: Kimberly ClarkOutstanding protection
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Stay-open & easy-close lid
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Lid closes tightly

Why Are Dementia and Incontinence Related?

why are dementia and incontinence related
As a standalone issue, incontinence is a difficult condition. Incontinence is classically defined as the inability to control one’s urination or bowel movements.

The severity of causes of incontinence vary from person to person and there could be more than one contributing factor or causes.

Some of the more common reasons for incontinence stem directly from one or more medical conditions such as age-related stress incontinence paired with limited mobility.

Dementia tends to complicate incontinence factors in a myriad of ways:

  • It becomes difficult to identify the urges to go to the bathroom.
  • Sometimes there may be issues remembering the location of a bathroom.
  • They may be physically unable to reach the restroom in time.
  • There may be the inability to control the muscular control needed for voluntary bowel movements and urination.

Are There Any Treatment Options for Dementia Patients Suffering from Incontinence?

are there any treatment options for dementia patients suffering from incontinence
The first thing to do would be to determine as best you can the type of incontinence that is being experienced.

Your doctor should be able to help assist with any underlying medical issues that might be a factor.

This could translate to a change in medications or even addressing a possible urinary tract infection.

An example of possible medical interventions could be as simple as recommending pelvic floor exercises to undergo corrective surgery.

You may also find that you or your loved one qualifies for use of a medical device or procedure designed to strengthen pelvic floor muscles and to retrain the bladder.

These represent some of the more modern methods of managing bladder control. These and other treatment options are best explored with the help of your personal physician.

How Do You Manage Incontinence in Dementia Patients?

how do you manage incontinence in dementia patients
Managing incontinence is best achieved with a plan and a simple level of preparedness.

Making sure the caregiver is paired with adequate resources, preferences, and supplies can help shape the experience in a new light.

The key to effectively managing incontinence lies in maintaining one’s dignity and health intact in every possible way.

Daily Care

daily care for incontinence
There are many things you can do to help offset the helplessness that accompanies incontinence.

  • Keep a clear course or route to the bathroom. Make it as easy as possible.
  • Eliminate bladder aggravating foods and drinks such as coffee, alcohol, soda, or teas.
  • Choose clothing that makes getting the bathroom easier and is easily removed or changed.
  • Create a routine for taking medications and eating to help facilitate predictable bowel patterns.
  • Create a plan for keeping clean. Think out of the box and consider the installation of shower tools, benches, or other modifications if you are in a caregiver role.
  • Get creative. An example might be to set timers to help remind patients to use the bathroom.
  • Don’t’ forget about privacy – Help your loved one keep his or her dignity.

Planning for Trips

dementia incontinence planning for trips
Plan accordingly for trips away from the comfort of one’s home.

Consider having a to-go bag complete and ready with a change of clothing, undergarments, and care products and keeping it in the car always.

Good practices might be assessing the need for extra stops along the way, or simply knowing the layout of a place ahead of time for an easy bathroom location.

These simple ideas may prevent an accident and help simplify visits to the doctor or even marketplaces.

Tip: Understand ahead of time what restroom facilities are available to you – especially in the cases of staying in a hotel or event location.

Don’t be afraid to call ahead and ask for any modifications that may make your stay easier.

Services and Resources

dementia incontinence services and resources
Finding support for yourself if you are a caregiver and your loved one should be a priority.

Many aren’t designed to navigate these waters alone. The CDC estimates that there are 25% of adults in the U.S. that are providing care to a loved one.

There are specialty organizations and hospital affiliates designed to assist with affordable incontinence supplies, counseling, and in some cases in-home care visits.

To learn more about the resources available to you, contact your care provider or visit informative websites like this one.

How Do You Overcome the Emotional Obstacles Associated with Incontinence and Dementia?

how do you overcome the emotional obstacles associated with incontinence and dementia
It goes without saying, the level of embarrassment felt by someone with incontinence is debilitating. Left unchecked, these emotions can quickly escalate to severe depression.

Encourage dialogue and healthy emotional outlets – a little compassion can go a long way.

Consider finding avenues to maintain discreet cleaning, and personalizing care options.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the fit of personal care products.

Do your best to honor personal preferences regarding incontinent product choices.

dementia incontinence factors

Never underestimate the humanity and value of being comfortable and feeling your best in the face of unpleasant circumstances.

It could be the one thing that makes the experience of embarrassing incontinent situations bearable.

Conclusion

Living with incontinent associated dementia isn’t easy.

However, it can be managed effectively with knowledge and a little understanding.

Make your physician your partner in creating a personalized healthcare strategy. It might be one of the best things you can do aside from staying positive.

Most importantly, stay connected with what is trending for available treatment options.

Remember communication, patience, and quality care are the hallmark vehicles to effectively managing complications of incontinence due to dementia.