It can occur as a result of a frustrating situation. Even completely out of the blue.
When this happens, there are SEVERAL WAYS that we can use to calm down an angry person who has dementia.
Best Ways To Calm Down an Angry Person With Dementia
Trying to Identify the Cause
One of the best ways to deal with an angry person is to try and figure out what has triggered the mood swing.
Numerous factors can cause this type of reaction.
This can include physical discomfort which can be as a result of medical conditions, lack of enough sleep or rest, hunger, thirst, or side effects caused by medications a person is taking.
Environmental factors such as feelings of being lost or overstimulation can also evoke anger in a person who is affected by the illness.
Identifying the CAUSE of the behavior helps you to rectify it fast to ensure that the person with dementia is as comfortable as possible.
For instance, if the individual is hungry or thirsty giving them a drink and food can help correct the problem.
Become a “Yes” Person
When a caregiver finds themselves in a situation dealing with an angry person with dementia, it can help to say “yes” as much as possible.
If the affected person mentions that they have been seeing people who passed away, do not start arguing telling them that it is IMPOSSIBLE.
Instead, you can calmly point out that it would be great to see them again.
You can even build on this and ask questions like what they would talk about. This is bound to develop a sense of COMFORT and CONNECTION with one another.
It is because “yes” is considered an affirming and powerful word. It also lets the affected person know that their carer is listening.
Seek Expert Help
If a caregiver is not in a position to calm down an angry person with dementia, it may be helpful to seek professional help.
This can help out especially if the affected person is in pain and they cannot communicate effectively.
This is also helpful if anger stems from medication side effects. Doctors can change the medication a person is taking in a bid to reduce their SUFFERING.
If it is not possible to take the individual to the hospital, there may be no other option than to call 911.
When you make the call DO NOT FORGET to tell the responder that the person acting aggressively has dementia.
Works in the kidneys to maintain acid-base balance
In the past, they used zinc as a treatment for wounds and the common cold.
Evidence, however, suggests that people who have male fertility issues, diarrhea, pneumonia, and Alzheimer’s can also use zinc.
Nature Cures Clinic explains that without zinc, the RISK of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease (AD) increases.
Most seniors, people with dementia, and those with mental disorders normally have a zinc deficiency.
One of the primary reasons this happens is that for zinc to be effectively absorbed in the bloodstream, humans need an acid known as “picolinic acid.”
This is an acid that is excreted by the pancreases.
When zinc supplements or food with zinc reach the small intestine, the pancreas excretes the acid. It binds with the mineral moving across the intestine wall and finally into the bloodstream.
Professionals from the University of Maryland Medical Centre discovered that daily zinc supplementation of 30-40 mg could help ENHANCE the memory and cognitive functioning of people who have dementia.
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Foods Rich in Zinc
It is important to highlight some of the foods that people can take to increase zinc levels in the body.
(You don’t always need to go straight to supplements.)
Some of them include:
Lamb
Beef
Oysters
Shrimp
Herring
Cheese
Yeasts
Sunflower, sesame, & pumpkin seeds
Mushroom
Wheat germ and bran
Squash
Spinach
Collard greens
Asparagus
Maple syrup
Miso
Chard
Broccoli
Zinc supplements are another option people have when looking to increase the levels of the mineral in the body.
Note: Excessive amounts, zinc can be toxic.
Aim for about 20-2 mg daily as this is considered a safe amount. Do not exceed 40 mg every day.
Some of the TOXIS EFFECTS of excess zinc include nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, cramps, and vomiting.
Controversial Views about Zinc and Dementia
According to WebMD, zinc is implicated in two ways when it comes to AD one of the main causes of dementia.
Some reports indicate that low levels of zinc are a problem.
Other studies show too much zinc is also a problem. Autopsies found that the brain of people with Alzheimer’s showed low levels of zinc.
Recent studies also suggest that TOO MUCH zinc is also not a good thing. In a lab experiment, zinc caused beta-amyloid from cerebrospinal fluid.
This is the fluid that forms clumps which are similar to plaques that are common in AD.
More experiments are pursuing this angle in laboratory tests.
Zinc and Dementia Closing Thoughts
More research still needs to be done when it comes to zinc and dementia and HOW the mineral CAN HELP persons with the illness.
It is important for anyone who is thinking of taking zinc supplements to consult their doctor first.
This will ensure there are no potential interactions with other medications or health conditions a person may have.
This type of dementia is said to be the 2nd leading cause of cognitive disorder brought about by neurodegeneration in persons who are 65 years and below.
Causes of Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia
The main cause of the illness is yet to be established.
Scientists acknowledge that with the disease, there is usually a HUGE build-up of different types of proteins with brain cells.
Experts talk about three kinds of protein i.e. TDP=43, tau, and FUS (fused – in sarcoma).
These types of proteins usually occur normally but the problem comes in when there are EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS in the brain.
Large amounts of protein in the brain cells make the cells lose their ability to function well and they finally die off.
When this happens, the affected parts of the brain will shrink.
As aforementioned, it is right to conclude that this type of dementia may occur when there is cell loss in the frontal and anterior part of the brain.
To add to this, it is important to mention that this dementia can also be caused by different pathologies.
These include the irregular deposits of proteins in the brain.
Some studies also suggest that genetics may have a role to play in the development of the illness.
Some will lose their decorum or mannerisms where they can end up using vulgar language, being rude, or violate personal space among others.
Others will even start engaging in impulsive buying or selling habits or get into careless actions among many others.
2. Executive dysfunction
You may also tell that a person has this kind of dementia when they START STRUGGLING with executive functions like generation of ideas, planning, mental flexibility, and organizing.
This primarily happens when the brain starts to lose some essential cells in its frontal lobes.
3. Loss of empathy
It is common for dementia patients to appear detached, cold, or display an abnormal disregard for distress or pain.
Some will also start to show a diminished response to other people’s feelings and needs.
4. Dietary changes
Change in eating habits is another example of symptoms that a person may have when dealing with this dementia variant.
These can range from harmless repetitive behaviors like picking, tapping, and scratching.
Others will be quite complex such as collecting, ordering, and cleaning.
At extremes, impulsivity can end up being self-destructive.
For instance, a person may think that it is proper to jump out of a moving car on the highway. Some individuals also end up indulging in inappropriate sexual behaviors.
7. Impaired judgment
Although this may come in later, you may find that a person who has this type of dementia is not capable of making the right decisions.
This means that they can easily become victims of scams in person or online.
Sadly, people with the illness rarely notice the changes they go through.
Similar to other types of FTD, symptoms usually start mildly and become more disabling and pronounced over 8-10 years.
The end-stage of this illness typically includes intense functional impairment. It is also possible that a person will experience memory or motor difficulty if not both.
It is advisable to SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION when you notice any of the symptoms above to get a timely diagnosis.
Diagnosing BvFTD
To date, experts still do not have an easy time diagnosing this kind of dementia.
Given the gradual personality and behavioral changes that a person goes through, diagnosing this syndrome is not a walk in the park.
People will the illness will often go through SEVERAL mental and physical health referrals before the doctor can satisfactorily recognize the disease as a neurodegenerative disorder.
You may notice that a majority of the symptoms discussed above are synonyms with those of other dementia types. Something that increases the chances of MISDIAGNOSIS.
For early detection, there must be in-depth expert assessments of a person’s:
Medical history
Cognitive functions
Clinical observations
Caregiver reports on psychological and behavioral symptoms and the changes they bring.
Doctors and psychologists work hand in hand to assess a person’s current situation before concluding whether they have the disease or not.
An individual might have to undergo a couple of medical tests.
These may include brain scans which can show if there is a loss of brain cells in the FTD.
The professionals may also recommend blood tests, MRI, CT and other tests to confirm the clinical diagnosis.
This helps to rule out any other diseases because there is no single test that can diagnose this kind of dementia.
Treating bvFTD
There is still no cure for this type of dementia. Doctors may, however, prescribe some medications that can help to manage the symptoms.
Some of these drugs may include SSRIs.
These are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors that can help a person manage symptoms like irritability, agitation, and lack of motivation.
Medical practitioners will also treat other illnesses that a person may have like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Other than medications, there are other ways persons with the illness can get relief.
Examples of medications to AVOID include the ones that have powerful anticholinergic side effects.
These may include narcotics, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, central nervous system stimulates, and barbiturates among others.
An individual may also opt to join a clinical trial to see if the practitioners can make him or her feel better.
Research continues when it comes to the treatment of this illness and there may be a breakthrough in the future.
Coping with Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia
The lack of an FDA approved cure means that a person with bvFTD must learn to cope with the illness to live a LONG and FILFILLING LIFE.
This includes getting help from friends, relatives, and professionals whenever they are in need.
However, many people SHY AWAY from asking for, especially when it comes to simple tasks.
It is also important to access the living environment of the person with dementia to ensure it is safe and comfortable.
A suitable retirement facility should be considered if living at home is no longer ideal.
It is also advisable for persons with the illness to get into legal planning when the dementia is still in its early stages.
Here, he or she can articulate their wishes and needs.
At some point it may be advisable to have a LIVING WILL which will spell out any medical treatments that a person may like to keep them alive as well as other decisions like organ donation and pain management.
Power of Attorney may also be necessary so that there can be a trustworthy person who can act in place of the ill individual in regards to financial and medical matters.
BvFTD Closing Thoughts
With bvFTD, it is essential to note that the length of the disease, as well as the symptoms, can dramatically vary from one person to the next.
Research shows that people who have this kind of dementia usually have a lower life expectancy when compared to the ones who have Alzheimer’s disease.
The disease usually CHANGES with time. A person can live with the illness for years.
Death may not be necessarily caused by the illness directly.
In most cases, it is because of other complications like dehydration, pneumonia, extensive pressure ulcers, UTI, fractures, falls, or vascular events.
For years, we have been looking into the connection between gut health and dementia.
This is in a bid to identify factors that CAN HELP reduce the risk of developing the progressive neurodegenerative disease.
Dementia is not an individual disease but a general term for loss of language, memory, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities that interferes with an individual’s day-to-day life.
Gut health, on the other hand, refers to a range of functions that the digestive system is responsible for.
This INCLUDES digestion, absorption of nutrients, production of hormones, and keeping a stable amount of bacteria, etc.
It has been proven both clinically and theoretically that poor gut health is one of the major causes of Alzheimer’s as well as neurodegeneration.
Connection between the Brain and Gut
Before digging deeper into the relationship between gut health and dementia, it interesting to learn about the gut-brain connection.
Almost everyone has had butterflies in their stomach or gut feelings.
The sensations that come from the belly suggest that the gut and brain HAVE a CONNECTION.
These two organs are connected both biochemically and physically in several ways.
The gut-brain axis refers to the communication system between the gut and the brain.
Other similarities the organs have include:
Presence of Neurons
Neurons are cells that are primarily found in the nervous system and the brain that instruct the body on how to behave.
The human brain has approximately 100 billion neurons.
Surprisingly, the gut has 500 million neurons that are connected to the brain THROUGH NERVES located in the nervous system.
The vagus nerve is one of the biggest nerves in the body that connects the brain and the gut. It sends signals in both directions.
A human study found that individuals with Crohn’s disease or IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) also experienced reduced vagal tone. Meaning that a person has reduced function of the vagus nerve.
Another mice study discovered that feeding the animals probioticsreduced the stress hormone amount in their blood.
However, after cutting the vagus nerve, probiotics did not have any effect.
It goes to show that the vagus nerve IS CRUCIAL in the gut-brain axis as well as its role in stress.
Neurotransmitters
The brain and the gut are also connected through neurotransmitters chemicals. The brain produces these to control emotions and feelings.
Fascinatingly, gut cells also produce many neurotransmitters.
Research indicates that the gut produces a huge portion of serotonin a neurotransmitter that controls the body clocks and contributes to feelings of happiness.
The Immune System
The immune system also connects the gut-brain axis. Gut and gut microbes play an ESSENTIAL ROLE in the immune system as well as inflammation.
This is though controlling what is passed into the body and the things that are excreted.
If the immune system stays switched on for too long, it can result in inflammation which is linked to various brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and depression.
Certain bacterial make LPS (lipopolysaccharide) an inflammatory toxin that can cause inflammation when a lot of it passes to the blood from the gut.
It mostly happens when the gut barrier is LEAKY allowing LPS and bacteria to cross into the blood.
High LPS and inflammation are associated with brain disorders like dementia, schizophrenia, and severe depression.
Microbes
Although the brain does not have any microbes, the trillions of microbes that live in the gut make chemicals that affect how the brain functions.
Gut microbes produce tons of SCFA (short-chain fatty acids) that affect how the brain works, for instance, reducing appetite.
This is because they produce SCFA by digesting fiber.
Experts agree that a healthy diet alongside lifestyle factors plays a major role in decreasing dementia risk by about a third.
Microbiome
Some professionals as a way of finding out how this is possible opted to study the gut microbiome. Which are the trillions of microorganisms that live in the human digestive tract.
Researchers discovered that certain changes in these bacteria are linked to several autoimmune and inflammatory conditions like diabetes, obesity, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Scientists also revealed that some kinds of microbiome bacteria can promote the build-up of tau and amyloid proteins. These proteins are linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) one of the most common causes of dementia.
Mouse studies confirmed that dietary changes can alter the microbiome which can lower inflammation, reduce amyloid plaques and in turn enhance memory.
Lipids
There is also research suggesting that an individual’s ability to metabolize specific lipids can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
Lipids can be described as fat-like substances found in the body tissues and blood that make up most of the human brain.
Senior Director of Medical and Scientific Operations at Alzheimer’s Association Heather Snyder said that if a person’s body has challenges moving around lipids, it may end up impacting the structure and function of the brain.
Let’s look at some of the studies that have been conducted regarding the connection between gut health and dementia and their implications.
Studies Supporting the Connection between Gut Health and Dementia
Several studies have been conducted to reveal the relationship between various types of dementia and gut health.
Below we look at some of the research that has been making headlines in the dementia world.
1. Impact of Lipids
Two studies sought to discover the impact of lipids on the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. One of the studies was carried out at the University of California.
The researchers studied 800 seniors some with full-blown Alzheimer’s, others with mild cognitive impairment, and others healthy.
They discovered that the participants with Alzheimer’s also had numerous issues with lipid metabolism like having a hard time absorbing the lipids that contain DHA and EPA.
Researchers tried to give this group of people fish oil supplements, but this action did not bring the lipids back to normal.
The other study was conducted by researchers from Duke University and the University of Pennsylvania.
They discovered that LOW levels of various lipids and plasmalogens are linked to a HIGHER RISK of Alzheimer’s.
Both studies seem to indicate that when the human body does not produce certain lipids, it will also impact what is going on in the brain.
2. Can Gut Bacteria Help in Dementia Diagnosis and Treatment
Researchers in Japan conducted a study to determine whether, in the future, gut bacterial may help in diagnosing dementia and perhaps even treatment.
The team of scientists was led by Dr. Naoki Saji from National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology in Japan. The researchers recruited 128 participants from a memory clinic.
All the participants underwent cognitive ability assessment and the professionals also used MRI to scan their brains. Some people had dementia while others did not.
To look for differences between the two groups, the scientists analyzed stool samples. The researchers found several differences.
For example, feces collected from people with dementia recorded higher levels of phenol, ammonia, skatole, and indole. The group also had major changes in the levels of some gut bacteria.
Even though this was a small study, the authors concluded that gut microbiota is a strong and independent dementia risk factor.
More research needs to be conducted on this angle to determine the link between gut health and dementia.
Foods that can Help Improve Gut Health and Dementia
Maintaining gut health may be instrumental in preserving brain health.
Certain food groups are beneficial for the gut-brain axis and some of them include:
Fermented Foods
Cheese, yogurt, sauerkraut, and kefir contain HEALTHY microbes that can alter brain activity.
Omega-3 fats
Studies in animals and humans show that omega-3s that are mostly found in oily fish increase good bacteria in the gut and can reduce the risk of brain disorders.
Polyphenol-Rich Foods
Green tea, cocoa, coffee, and olive oil are some of the foods that have high levels of polyphenols.
These are plant chemicals that increase healthy gut bacteria and can also enhance cognition.
Foods Rich in Fibre
Examples of these include nuts, whole grains, fruits, seeds, and vegetables that contain prebiotic fibres good for gut bacteria.
Prebiotics are also known to reduce stress hormones.
Implications of the Studies
While the research looking into the relationship between gut health and dementia is still in its early stages, it may be a game-changer when it comes to developing better diagnostic tests for dementia in the future.
It may also offer professionals a better perspective on why some people will experience fast progression over a year while others will go through a slow progression over 15 years.
Additionally, people are advised to take care of their gut health. This will not only make them feel better but can also avoid different types of dementia and neurodegenerative diseases according to Dr. Floyd Minana D.C.
It is, therefore, important to inquire whether the neurologist deals with people who have dementia/Alzheimer’s before seeking their services.
2. Neuropsychologists
Neuropsychologists are another type of doctor that a person with dementia should see. Most of the professionals normally have advanced degrees (Psy.D or Ph.D.) in clinical psychology.
Some also further their studies to get training in neuropsychology.
The professionals normally administer several tests to access thinking abilities like language, attention, memory, problem-solving skills, and reading.
Neuropsychologists can work with PRIMARY CAREGIVERS as well as other specialists during the diagnosis process.
3. Geriatricians
Geriatricians are primary care physicians who also have additional training in medical care for conditions and diseases that affect older people (over 65 years).
The professionals can generally manage numerous medical conditions.
4. Geriatric Psychiatrists
The psychiatrists undergo general psychiatry training with additional training in aging and mental health.
When a person is suspected to have dementia, geriatric psychiatrists can help rule out other causes of memory loss like depression.
They are professionals who specialize in medical disorders that affect the way the mind works and mood.
6. Psychologists
Psychologists are physicians who are trained in testing memory as well as other mental functions.
The experts usually perform several tests to determine whether the symptoms a person is experiencing are related to dementia.
These include:
Tests to determine the condition
Reviewing medical history
This includes LOOKING into past and current medical conditions and medications.
The doctor can also look into the diet, alcohol use, and family medical history.
In addition to talking with the affected individual, physicians might also request to talk to family members of the person who may be suffering from thinking or memory problems.
They normally do this to find out if the relatives have NOTICED any CHANGES.
Physical Exam
Doctors may also request a physical exam to assess things like pulse, temperature, blood pressure, and other procedures that evaluate overall health.
Laboratory Tests
Doctors can also ask for a couple of lab tests that help rule out other infections that may be causing the symptoms a person has.
These can also help to check how organs like the kidney or liver are functioning.
Common lab tests that doctors ask for include urine and blood samples.
Brain Imaging
These can include CT scans, MRIs, or more to check if there are any changes in the brain.
Mental Cognitive Status Tests
Mental Cognitive Status Tests are usually conducted to evaluate memory, simple problem-solving abilities, and thinking.
The tests can be BRIEF or COMPLEX and intensive depending on what the doctor wants to achieve.
Complex tests are offered by professional neuropsychologists to evaluate judgment, executive function, language, and attention.
It may include ANSWERING some questions to find out if they have depression.
This is usually important because depressioncan cause thinking and memory issues SIMILAR to dementia.
The doctor can then refer the individual to other specialists who deal with the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia if they are not able to FULLY DIAGNOSE the illness.
What Type of Doctor Should a Dementia Patient See? Closing Remarks
It normally helps to work with a team of professional doctors to get a dementia diagnosis.
This is because there is still no single test that can be done to diagnose progressive disease.
If a person has dementia, the specialists can also help come up with an effective treatment plan that will help manage the disease because it does not have a cure yet.
It has been our intention to offer a brief to provide clarity on what type of doctor should a dementia patient see.
The most common cases are usually a combination between blood vessel abnormalities commonly linked with vascular dementia and protein deposits usually seen in Alzheimer’s disease.
It is believed that about 10% of people with dementia also have the illness.
Scientists, however, reveal that this number could be HIGHER.
The illness may occur in different stages. These are important when it comes to guiding caregivers and physicians on how to best take care of people with this kind of dementia.
Below are seven common stages of mixed dementia.
7 Stages Of Mixed Dementia
1. No impairment
This is where an individual can go about their business and life independently.
During this stage, there are no outward clear signs of the illness. At this stage, it is more or less if someone else suggests testing ourselves for (mixed) dementia or we read it in an article – like this one.
Since dementia starts developing years and years in advance, anyone at the age of around fifty should test themselves.
Sometimes even earlier.
2. Very Mild
The signs and symptoms at this stage also hardly manifest. Generally, there may appear normal forgetfulness signs that are associated with aging.
For instance, a person may struggle to remember the name of a loved one, but finally, figure it out after some time.
If these events start to repeat, become almost annoying, the individual should visit the doctor.
3. Mild
During this point, the symptoms remain barely noticeable. A person may go on their daily lives without too much interruption.
Some people may, however, showcase symptoms such as repetition, slight memory loss, loss of concentration and difficulties managing finances such as balancing checkbooks.
Again if the person is doing the same mistakes again and again or forgetting the name of the same person, seeing the doctor is almost crucial.
4. Moderate
It becomes clear at this stage that many people cannot complete routine tasks without some form of assistance.
This can be SIMPLE THINGS such as preparing meals, using the phone, changing television programs and completing laundry.
Some people also start to withdraw socially, experience incontinence and have trouble finding the right phrases or words.
5. Moderately Severe
During these final stages, people with this kind of dementia need help to go about their day to day lives.
Some symptoms may include an increase in memory loss, confusion regarding events, and current location.
Also, the need for a helping hand when picking appropriate clothing and tying shoelaces.
6. Severe
The disease becomes worse at this stage and individuals can no longer perform duties on their own.
They may need a helping hand with a majority of their day-to-day activities including when dressing, going to the toilet, eating, walking, and sleeping.
At this time, a caregiver is almost a necessity.
7. Very Severe
The final stage is associated with signs like LOSS of muscle control, hard times with language ability, no control over urination, and losing awareness of the surroundings.
With this type of dementia, hence the name, several different symptoms and signs may occur from several other different dementias.
Mixed Dementia Symptoms
Worth noting is that a diagnosis of mixed dementia is quite difficult.
Most people with the illness do not know that they have it because the many brain changes it involves are hard to detect.
Instead, persons are usually diagnosed with the kind of dementia that best suits the symptoms they have.
Many are the times when the disease is only seen during an autopsy rather than during life.
Depending on the dementia combination that a person has, the symptoms may vary widely.
Primarily, the symptoms are similar to those of a specific type of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Some people’s symptoms may be a clear indication of the existence of multiple kinds of dementia. These may include:
You can teach a person something new today and if asked about it tomorrow, they may not know what you are talking about.
The reason for this is that dementia characteristically affects the section of the brain that is responsible for learning.
As a person grows older and the disease becomes worse, they may report more severe symptoms.
These can include disorientation, changes in behavior/mood, worsening confusion of places, time, and event, and becoming suspicious of friends, family members, or the caregivers who spend quality time with the individual with this type of dementia.
Loss of Memory
Everyone with dementia at one point experiences difficulties with memory. It usually starts off light something that does not bother many.
Trouble sets in when the loss of memory begins to interfere with a person’s ability to perform their normal daily tasks.
Signs of this may include the increasing need to rely on aids such as reminder notes or electronic devices to remember stuff.
Some people will even forget the most important dates of their lives like their birthdays, children’s/ partner’s birthdates, doctor’s appointments, and so on.
Many people with dementia also get into the habit of asking for the same details repeatedly.
Additionally, they may also lose things frequently and leave valuable items in unusual places.
Poor Judgement
People with mixed dementia may have a difficult time making the right call whenever necessary.
For instance, you may find that an individual does not have control over their money.
They may become over generous giving up huge chunks of money to telemarketers and other organizations.
Such people are usually vulnerable and they need a trustworthy person to guide them since they can easily fall into the hands of conmen.
As the disease, progresses, people with the illness may start to pay less attention to their bodies ignoring basic hygiene practices like brushing teeth, taking a shower, and putting on clean clothes, etc. Grooming becomes the last thing on their minds.
Mixed Dementia Treatment
To date, treatment for mixed dementia remains a challenge for medical practitioners.
However, there is a ray of hope for people with the illness because scientific studies show that it responds well to treatment options like:
Practicing Life-Long Heart-Healthy Lifestyle
Although this is not a treatment option per say, leading a healthy lifestyle can help delay or prevent the advancement of symptoms as the person with dementia grows older.
When talking about a healthy lifestyle, it means eating right.
This is where you get at least 3 or 4 healthy balanced meals. Avoid processed foods and too much sugar.
People with this type of dementia should also drink loads of plain water, stop smoking, cease drinking alcohol, and take part in exercise even when it is not too strenuous to get the heart beating as it should.
It also involves honoring doctor’s appointments so that a professional can check you out and give any advice necessary.
This is where the people with the illness take part in specific activities that help to stimulate thinking skills and how they interact with other people.
Facilitators often include games and music to make it more enjoyable.
Therapy can also assist with any movement issues to improve the overall quality and function of life.
It is best to have these done by a certified professional to avoid making things worse.
This is because it is not an easy task and caregivers need to be trained well on what to expect.
Drugs
Worth noting is that there is no medicine yet, for a person with a combination of two or more kinds of dementia.
Doctors may, however, prescribe various medicines in a bid to treat other underlying conditions that can cause damage to an individual’s blood vessels.
Before giving the go-ahead to take any medicine, the doctor has to assess the person’s environment and health.
Palliative Care
Many people with mixed dementia end up in palliative care especially during the final stages of the disease.
This is the type of care that is accorded to people who have serious illnesses.
This can be done at home or in a health institution. It is quite different from the care that people receive when they are in the process of curing an illness.
The primary goal of this type of care is to enhance a person’s life quality focusing on the whole being i.e. mind, body, and soul.
Caregivers usually help persons under their care to become more independent while managing their daily lives.
They can also offer counseling and support when an individual needs these to help them feel better.
Final Thoughts
Thanks to advancements in the medical field, there are chances that as research continues to grow, mixed dementia will progressively be diagnosed and treated during life.
Experts are also coming up with new clinical trials for individuals to try and introduce new methods that will most likely manage, prevent, treat, or detect this type of dementia.
An individual can feel short of breath when traveling to a high altitude, after an intense workout program, or when going through major temperature changes.
In most cases, however, dyspnea is normally associated with health issues.
Here are SOME of the reasons a person may experience shortness of breath and dementia.
Immobility: Many people with dementia especially during the last stages do not move about a lot. Being immobile can make one experience dyspnea because any exertion may lead to breathlessness.
Existing medical issues: DR. Steven Wahls reports that heart failure, asthma, pneumonia, COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and interstitial lung disease are some of the most common causes of dyspnea.
Drug interaction: Some medications that people with dementia take may list shortness of breath as one of their side effects.
Shortness of breath, in some cases, can be a sign of a life-threatening illness.
If a person is experiencing the severe onset of dyspnea, nausea, chest pain, or loss of the ability to function because of shortness of breath it is advisable to seek emergency medical treatment.
Shortness of Breath and Dementia Diagnosis Process
A physician can diagnose shortness of breath by conducting a comprehensive physical examination. And taking into consideration a full description of a person’s experiences.
Affected individuals SHOULD EXPLAIN how and when they started to experience air hunger.
They should also talk about the frequency, severity, and how long the attacks last.
Doctors may use CT (computed tomography) images and chest X-rays on persons with shortness of breath and dementia to help with diagnosis.
An Electrocardiogram may be conducted to reveal if a person has any heart attack warning signs or is experiencing other electrical problems in the heart.
Some doctors may also conduct spirometry tests that measure airflow as well as a person’s lung capacity.
Other tests may also be done to determine the LEVEL of OXYGEN in an individual’s blood.
Treating Dyspnea
Dyspnea treatment mainly depends on what is causing the problem.
For instance, a person who is experiencing shortness of breath because of overexertion just needs to stop and relax to get their breath back.
Persons who have COPD or asthma can use inhaled rescue bronchodilator when necessary.
Supplemental oxygen may be needed in severe cases.
Health care workers can also assist people who have shortness of breath and dementia EASILY. Especially when they are also suffering from other chronic conditions.
As a caregiver, we need to be familiar with challenging dementia behaviors and how to approach them the right way.
People who have dementia will often start to exhibit some behaviors that people around them may not understand.
This typically happens as the disease progresses where, in most cases, the sickness brings out a DIFFERENT PERSONALITY from the one the person usually has.
For instance, a loved one with dementia may start to use vulgar language, always using some unutterable words in their sentences even though they have NEVER DONE so their entire life.
In some cases, a person who was once bubbly, fun, and outgoing may all of a sudden withdraw from their circles, wanting to spend more time by themselves.
About 30-90% of people who have dementia will suffer from multiple behavioral disorders.
When such CHANGES happen, it can be difficult for relatives, friends, and other people around the ill person to comprehend what is going on.
Below we will help you understand challenging dementia behaviors.
Examples of Challenging Dementia Behaviors
Other than swearing and changes in personalities, there are other challenging behaviors dementia patients may showcase like:
It is important to note that dementia usually affects the human brain NEGATIVELY.
The brain, on the other hand, is one of the organs that control a person’s behavior.
This implies that the illness does not only affect memory and thinking but behaviors as well.
In essence, there are three types of factors that bring about baffling dementia behaviors.
Main factors for challenging behaviors
1. Physical causes – These can include illness or discomfort.
2. External/environmental causes – This can be anything from a different routine to an environment that overstimulates the person who has dementia.
3. Cognitive/psychological causes – These include factors like paranoia or confusion
Responding to Dementia Behaviors
There is no scientific way of dealing with some of the behaviors that people with dementia start to showcase along the way.
Most of the time, caregivers must TRY and FIGURE OUT what is causing a specific behavior to know to respond effectively or try and prevent the cause altogether.
For example, you may notice that certain things trigger these puzzling dementia behaviors. It may be the ill person only acts in a specific way at the same time of the day.
They may be doing this as a way of communicating their needs because most people with dementia usually developcommunication problems.
You may also want to consider TOO MUCH noise or clutter as a trigger.
It is usually helpful to keep a diary for one or two weeks.
These can help you identify the triggers that will reduce or eliminate behavioral problems.
Experts also advise that caregivers should ensure that the suffering person under their care maintains a HEALTHY social life.
Persons with dementia should also continue to participate in the activities they enjoy or identify new ones that make them happy.
Additionally, gentle exercises might also help to reduce those behaviors that may seem out of character.
Additional Support
Other steps that a carer can take to assist include:
Caregivers need to REMAIN positive, patient, and calm when dealing with daunting dementia behaviors.
Never try to use force or argue with a person who is going through challenging behaviors because of the illness.
They also need to avoid lengthy explanations because it is usually hard to reason with a person who has dementia.
It is also advisable for caregivers to take short breaks when feeling overwhelmed by all the behavioral changes.
SEEKING help from others can also help pinpoint new solutions that will take care of the current problems.
When it is not possible to handle these behaviors alone, it may be time to see a physician.
The professionals might prescribe some medication that will help with behavioral issues.
Treating these problems is CRUCIAL because it helps to improve the quality of life of the carer and the person with the illness.
It may also help to prevent untimely institutionalization.
It is not unusual for a person to feel hurt or experience frustration when a loved one with dementia is going through perplexing dementia behaviors.
However, even when going through this wide range of emotions, it is vital always to remember that the changes in behaviors are a result of the sickness and it is not a PERSON’S CHOICE.
These can help you better cope with these feelings for the good of all parties.
After weeks of research and study reviews, we bring you this in-depth overview of blood tests for dementia.
Researchers have revealed that conducting a blood test is fast BECOMING A REALITY in dementia diagnosis.
This comes as great news because for the longest time, conducting an autopsy was the only way to get a definitive diagnosis for Alzheimer’s.
Thanks to research and innovation, medics are able to use behavioral tests as well as spinal fluid and brain imaging tests to spot the disease in people before they even start showcasing the initial symptoms of the progressive illness.
These tests, however, are not considered “ideal.” They are not only invasive but are COSTLY and LIMITED to research settings.
They are not part of the care routine for millions of people who are living with this neurodegenerative disorder.
Some tests are not too helpful because they can fail to detect the illness during its early stages.
Brief Introduction to Blood Test for Dementia
Research by scientists in Australia and Japan indicates that a simple blood test will be all that is needed to detect a person who is at risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
It will be possible to get a diagnosis for Alzheimer’s in a doctor’s office without having to go through expensive and invasive procedures.
Doctors will use blood samples to detect the early signs of the illness. A blood test HAS ALREADY BEEN DEVELOPED by C2N Diagnostics in St. Loius, Mo.
This will mainly be used for persons in the US as a routine lab test.
The blood test is regulated under the CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) program from CMS.
For now, the FDA has not yet approved these blood tests. Interested parties can only take the test through a doctor.
If the company wishes, it can sell the rest under commercial laboratories rules. C2N has said that there are plans for the FDA to review this test in 2021.
Alzheimer’s Association stated that it will only endorse this test after the FDA has approved it.
Laboratory tests
The lab test has also received a CE mark implying it can be used as a diagnostic medical device in the European Union. It has met the health, safety, and environmental protection standards for the region.
Michelle Mielke an epidemiologist and neuroscientist at Mayo Clinic expressed her delight in the new development saying that the INNOVATIVE blood-based test for Alzheimer’s is phenomenal.
She explained that the field for very long has been thinking about such an invention. It has finally come to pass.
How the Blood Test for Dementia Works
Also known as the Precitivity AD, the C2N test or blood test for dementia uses mass spectrometry. An analytic technique used to detect specific beta-amyloid protein fragment that is one of the most common hallmarks of Alzheimer’s.
The beta-amyloid proteins normally accumulate and form plaques which can be seen on the brain 2 decades after an individual starts to notice they have memory issues.
The levels of beta-amyloid start to decline in the surrounding fluids as the plaques continue to build up in the brain. These changes can be measured in spinal fluid samples.
It is also possible to measure them in the blood where beta-amyloid concentrations are usually lower.
PrecivityAD is one of the first blood tests for Alzheimer’s that could enable early detection of the neurodegenerative illness.
HOPEFULLY, decades before the first symptoms appear.
Who Can Benefit from Precivity AD and How it Works
Precivity AD is designed for persons between the ages of 60-91. A prescribing physician will ship the blood samples of the person they are treating to be analyzed at C2N’s lab.
The results are normally sent back within ten business days.
A proprietary algorithm is used to calculate the results integrating the age of a person with beta-amyloid measurements and another protein known as apolipoprotein E which influences the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
The results of the blood test are supposed to enhance the accuracy of clinical diagnosis by distinguishing Alzheimer’s dementia from memory loss that is brought about by other medical conditions.
Blood Test Cost Implications
The cost of the test is around $1,250. For now, insurance does not cover this expense.
Thankfully, a person can take advantage of financial assistance programs. And BRING DOWN the expense to around $25-$20 for eligible candidates according to Joel Braunstein chief executive of C2N.
This is more affordable when compared with beta-amyloid tests using PET (positron- emission tomography) brain imaging which normally costs about $5,000 (not covered by insurance).
CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) samples typically cost anywhere from $800 to $ 1,000.
Reasons the Blood Test for Dementia is Important
When compared to the difficult and invasive procedures, the blood test for dementia, opens up more exciting possibilities.
Not only for clinical use but therapeutic development explains Adam Boxer a neurologist who works at the University of California, San Francisco.
Blood tests are also very convenient. They can be collected in a person’s home or REMOTE LOCATIONS.
While there is still no medication for Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, early tests that are readily available can enhance treatment.
They can allow affected persons to take appropriate measures to stay healthy, participate in clinical trials, and plan for their future.
Blood tests are also important because they can help identify the people who are at risk of developing the disease explains Mielke.
The rest can also be used to screen potential participants who can benefit from experimental drugs.
Elisabeth Thijssen a researcher studying blood biomarkers for Alzheimer’s at Amsterdam University Medical Centers in the Netherlands said that affordable blood tests can also lower the cost of clinical trials which will give an opportunity for potential treatments to be tested.
This can increase the chance of finally landing a cure.
How Effective is the Blood Test?
C2N reported that they used the Preclivity AD on 168 people. They then compared the results with those of PET scans.
When PET scans showed high amounts of amyloid-beta the blood test agreed 92% of the time.
If there was no amyloid shown after a PET scan, the blood test also gave similar results 77% of the time.
Are there any other Blood Tests for Alzheimer’s?
There is another blood test for dementia that is showing great potential for diagnosing the progressive illness.
Simoa test
It is known as Simoa which stands for “single-molecule array.”
This is also designed to test if there are any proteins in the blood plasma. This test can detect a protein known as ptau181 which has been linked to some of the changes that dementia causes in the brain.
Various studies revealed that Simoa is as effective at predicting dementia development as a spinal tap and PET scans.
The Simoa blood test, however, ELIMINATES the pain, cost, and radioactivity that are associated with the other tests.
Simoa can also detect upcoming changes in the brain that are caused by dementia for both short and long-term i.e. 15 months and 4 years respectively.
At the moment, researchers are using this technology to identify ideal candidates for clinical trials because it is not yet available for many people with the illness.
Apart from Simoa, there are other types of blood tests that are still in development.
Other blood tests
Some are looking into fatty amides or protective fats in the blood.
Studies indicate that if there are increased levels of fatty amide in the blood, it may be an indication of the accumulation of beta-amyloid in the brain.
Researchers are also working on blood tests that will measure other proteins like the NfL (neurofilament light chain) and tau proteins.
Experts claim that brain cell (neuron) death COMMON with individuals with Alzheimer’s may be detected by an increase of the proteins in the blood.
Closing Thoughts
The introduction of the blood test for dementia WILL revolutionize the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
The blood tests will hopefully offer a definitive diagnosis. It will HELP to ELIMINATE the time, pain, and uncertainty of diagnosing the illness.
When the tests become popular, they will have a huge impact on how doctors diagnose dementia.
This may also change the course of treatment. Instead of symptom management, medics may start focusing on the prevention as well as delaying the progression of the disease.
For instance, there may be a possibility that medication can lessen the accumulation of plaques in the brain.
Pool-based therapy where participants do not only engage in exercises but also practice handling multiple tasks at once
Virtual reality dancing using innovative systems such as Nintendo Wii to mimic movements as well as receive tactile and auditory feedback. Or participating in dance therapy
Technology-based prompting systems designed to deconstruct everyday tasks by creating written or verbal prompts
Physiotherapists usually offer personalized services depending on what a person needs when dealing with physiotherapy and dementia.
This helps them come up with the most effective ways of helping the individual with the illness.
Physiotherapy and Dementia Benefits
There are multiple ways individuals with dementia can benefit from physiotherapy sessions.
Improving Balance
Many people who have dementia usually experience poor balance which increases the risk of falling.
Physiotherapy can reduce the risk of falling by offering exercises that are designed to improve balance.
Physiotherapists can curate fall prevention programs that can address the fear of falling.
The benefits of exercise are immeasurable for everyone – including people with dementia.
People with dementia need to get up and move about depending on their capabilities. This can help prevent an array of medical conditions.
Physiotherapists can help people with dementia take part in appropriate exercises.
They can develop different beneficial programs like:
Strengthening exercises that will decrease the risk of osteoporosis and increase bone strength.
Stretching and Flexibility: These can help a person move around easier and they can assist in muscle tightening.
Postural Management: To prevent poor posture it is important for a person to regularly change their position. Physiotherapy assists in this leading to increased comfort levels as well as decreased joint movement and pressure sores.
Some of the exercises that the professionals recommend include seated exercise group, walking and utilizing technology like Wii.
Exercise is IMPORTANT because it can help improve the mood and thinking of people who have dementia.
This in turn can encourage social interaction and reduce the need for medication. It can also help people who are from surgery recover better and faster.
In some people with progressive illness, working out can have a POSITIVE IMPACT on the psychological and behavioral symptoms of the illness.
By exercising, persons with can dementia enjoy better sleep and feel less fatigued.
To encourage persons with dementia to exercise, physiotherapists do not only lead activities, but they can also lead recall or music classes.
Pain Management
When discussing physiotherapy and dementia, it is important to mention that drug-free therapy can help in pain management.
People with dementia may experience pain for a wide range of reasons. Including pressure sores, infections, osteoarthritis, and falls among others.
Pain CAN AFFECT motivation, mental function, and how persons with dementia respond to rehabilitation programs.
Some people with dementia may have a hard time expressing they are in pain.
Physiotherapists help in identifying and treating pain. They also offer the support that ill people need.
Reduce Care Burden
Carers who look after individuals with dementia usually display poorer health when compared to their peers.
Physiotherapy helps to reduce care burden by educating caregivers and also encouraging independence among people who are living with dementia.
This can give carers more free time to take care of themselves. Consequently, they can be happy and healthy while executing their caregiving responsibilities.
Helps in Saving Costs
Physiotherapists contribute a lot when it comes to offering improved care for people who have dementia.
CSP reveals that physiotherapy services for individuals living with dementia have been identified as a key cost saversaving up to £6 million annually.
This is because physiotherapists can help in the early discharge of people so that a person with dementia does NOT have to stay in the hospital for too long.
For instance, if a person suffers a common hip fracture, they are usually required to stay in the hospital for an average of seven days.
The majority of people with dementia will end up staying in the hospital for about fourteen days.
Some may even stay for a month or more.
The longer a person stays in the hospital the more costs are incurred.
However, when working with a physiotherapist, people will dementia will end up staying fewer days in hospital incurring fewer costs.
A case study on the above was done in Greenview Intermediate Care Unit.
This is an institution that offers rehabilitation for persons who have delirium and dementia offering them an opportunity to go back home.
Persons at Greenview go through physiotherapy sessions five days a week following home visits and assessments to evaluate risk factors before they are discharged.
More than half of the people go back home safely.
The professionals conduct further follow-up home visits to assess progress as well as collaborate with other agencies to make sure the individuals discharged STAY SAFE at home.
The service has seen a reduction in people staying in hospital which ends up reducing costs and preventing hospital admissions in the future.
Physiotherapy and Dementia Closing Thoughts
There are a few things that CANNOT be ignored when it comes to looking after a person with dementia. One of them is physiotherapy.
While physiotherapy does not cure dementia it can help slow down cognitive deterioration, enhance mobility, improve the quality of life, and help a person with dementia lead a more dignified life.
