Prevention

13+ Frontotemporal Dementia Treatment Options

Rok Krivec Blog, Prevention , ,
frontotemporal dementia treatment

It is important to understand the right approach to frontotemporal dementia treatment and how you can ease and alleviate the condition.

Frontotemporal dementia or FTD is a group of disorders that develop when there is a progressive loss of nerve cells in the frontal or temporal lobes in the brain.

When this happens to an individual, it can affect their movement, behavior, language, and personality. If you get a positive diagnosis for FTD, the first question you may ask is how to get treatment.

Sadly, there is currently no treatment available to cure, prevent, or slow down the decline of FTD.

However, there are a couple of frontotemporal dementia treatment options that affected individuals can try out. These may help take care of some of the symptoms they experience, ultimately improving quality of life.

Worth noting is that FTD is not life-threatening and many people live with it for years.

Best Frontotemporal Dementia Treatment

Medication

frontotemporal dementia treatment medication
Doctors can prescribe different types of medication to a person who has FTD to ease some symptoms. These are usually off-label drugs that are approved for one purpose but are used for another purpose.

Before settling on the drug that a person should take, medics usually ask caregivers and the person with dementia what the most problematic symptom is.

The professional then targets to treat this first. Some of the most common drugs that a person can include in a frontotemporal dementia treatment plan include:

Antidepressants

There are very many drugs in the market available to help treat depression. That can also come in handy for a person who has FTD. They can help to control obsessive-compulsive behaviors, treat anxiety, and other signs of the disease.

Drugs like trazodone can assist with behavioral problems. SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), on the other hand, have proven to be helpful when it comes to treating multiple FTD behavioral symptoms.

They include agitation, depression, apathy, and anxiety amongst others.

Drugs that most people take include Zoloft and Luvox. Professionals deem these agents relatively safe to be taken by persons who have dementia.

Sleeping aids

sleeping aids
An individual can use this to help ease sleep disturbances like insomnia.

Antipsychotic drugs

Doctors usually recommend these to help reduce compulsive and irrational behaviors. The medications which are also known as neuroleptic drugs have a reputation for affecting motor functioning negatively.

However, new generation antipsychotic drugs like Zyprexa and Seroquel are normally well-tolerated.

Cholinesterase inhibitors

Some people will be also be put on cholinesterase inhibitors to experience some improvement or temporary stabilization in memory/attention in global functioning and day-to-day activities.

Anticonvulsants

This class of medicine can act as mood stabilizers. A doctor may advise a person to take these alone or in conjunction with other drugs, specifically antipsychotic medication to manage agitation.

Tegretol and Depakote can help manage extreme behavior symptoms.

Dopaminergic Agents

dopaminergic agents
Some studies reveal that some drugs can help with enhanced initiation and speech fluency. These are medications that an individual takes to supplement the dopamine brain neurotransmitter system.

Persons with Parkinson’s disease are the ones who mostly take these drugs. In small doses, the medication might also reduce involuntary movements that some persons with FTD have.

Medroxyprogesterone

Some persons with frontotemporal dementia may show signs of sexual disinhibition. Because this can be distressing medics might recommend medroxyprogesterone which is a hormone progesterone derivative. In some cases, this is useful for calming sexual urges.

Clinicians have to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using drugs before recommending a prescription. This is because some drugs may have dire side-effects; thus, they end up creating a bigger problem instead of offering a solution.

Others might also interact with other medications that a person is already taking.

In most cases, the doctor will proceed on a start slow approach to see if the medication will be tolerated. The expert then decides whether it is prudent for the person to continue taking the drugs or look for an alternative.

Therapy

therapy
Persons who have FTD are also advised to consider different types of therapies when coming up with a frontotemporal dementia treatment plan.

Examples of therapies that might help include:

Language and speech therapy

Experts can work with an individual to help improve communication problems.

This, at times, also assists with swallowing issues.

Physiotherapy

This comes highly recommended for people who have movement challenges because of FTD.

Occupational therapy

A person goes in for this type of therapy so that therapists can identify major problem areas in their daily lives.

These can include difficulties in eating, taking a shower, or getting properly dressed. The professionals of occupational therapy then go ahead to help come up with practical solutions.

Clinical Trials

clinical trials
Researchers and other experts are constantly working hard to make strides in the frontotemporal dementia treatment front.

This implies that a person who has FTD can volunteer to join a clinical trial that is experimenting with new tests, interventions, and treatments.

It is one of the approaches that can help to introduce new methods that are possible to detect, prevent, manage, or even treat the disease.

It is crucial to do thorough research before joining any clinical program to ensure that you will not be compromising your health at the end of the day.

Each clinical trial typically follows a protocol that has been predefined, including:

  • Clear criteria for eligible persons
  • In-depth information about the purpose of the trial
  • The experts conducting it and how they will be doing it
  • Potential benefits and risks

With most trials, a person does not have to pay to join. The experts usually cover costs like travel expenses for the participants.

Home and Lifestyle Remedies

home and lifestyle remedies
Away from frontotemporal dementia treatment options that mainly require professional help, there are some lifestyle and home remedies that can also prove valuable to individuals with FTD like:

1. Accepting the help of the caregivers. As the illness progresses, a person with FTD might not be able to do everything on their own; thus need some assistance from relatives, friends, and other professionals.

These are people who will come in to lend a hand when it is needed as you go about your daily activities. They will also offer transportation, maintain safety and assist with finances.

2. Engaging in exercises that are suitable for your skill level is also good for your health. Not only will this keep you in shape, but it will also help enhance thinking skills and mood.

3. Proper nutrition is also advisable for anyone who has FTD. There are plenty of resources that a person can use to see the best foods and drinks to eat to get the nutrients and energy that is needed to tackle the disease.

4. Stress management is also crucial to everyone who is battling FTD. Try and find things that make one happy and relaxed. The activities that a person engages in should be stimulating and enjoyable and most importantly, should be of their choosing.

While lifestyle changes will not reverse or stop the progression of the illness, they can help to protect brain functioning and offer other benefits that will see a person lead a more fulfilling life even with the disease.

frontotemporal dementia treatment lifestyle changes

Extra lifestyle changes

Your physician will also discuss any lifestyle changes that you need to make along the way. For instance, it may reach a point where you are not able to drive safely again.

Creating a comfortable environment for the person with FTD can also help them cope better with the signs and symptoms they are going through.

This can be done by making sure that there is nothing in sight that upsets the person with dementia. The home should also have minimal noise and be well-lit.

Other frontotemporal dementia treatment plans that might come in handy for persons with FTD like:

1. Engaging in relaxing techniques
This can be anything from going in for a massage or just listening to some good music and dancing your heart out.

2. Leisure activities and social interactions
These are best done with people who are facing the same challenges. This is why a person with this type of dementia needs to identify a support group.

These can have all sorts of helpful ideas on the activities that members can participate in to have fun so that they do not have to think about their medical condition all the time.

These groups also offer plenty of valuable advice that members can use to lead better lives despite their current conditions.

3. Strategies to combat challenging behavior
These include approaches like structured routines, distraction techniques, and activities like completing puzzles, etc. that help to avert “difficult” behaviors.

4. The use of incontinence products like pads pants, catheters, and other products and devices can help make life a lot easier when need be.

Closing Thoughts

It is important to note that people who have FTD do not experience illness in the same way. This means that a treatment option that works for one person may be harmful to the next.

It is, therefore, vital to identify the best treatment options based on individual experience to get the best results.

Additionally, it is best to stay away from self-prescription. Always consult a professional before you embark on any new treatments to be on the safe side.

14 Best Alternative Therapies for Dementia

Rok Krivec Blog, Prevention , ,
alternative therapies for dementia

To date, dementia still has no cure but persons with the illness can consider alternative therapies for dementia to improve symptoms and improve quality of life.

Alternative therapies refer to the treatment that is used in place of conventional medical care.

They normally target psychological, emotional, cognition, and behavioral symptoms that persons with dementia experience.

Examine some of the therapies that individuals with dementia can benefit from below.

14 Best Alternative Therapies For Dementia

Occupational Therapy

An occupational therapist can help evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a person who has dementia. This can assist the professional understand the areas where the affected individuals need help the most.

Working with the therapist can see a person improve some of their physical skills.

The experts can also come up with suggestions for home and living changes to make it safer and better adapted to the needs of the person with the progressive disease.

Examples of modifications that you can make include:

1. Ensuring that there is a fence surrounding the yard so that the affected person will not get away, wander, and get lost in the neighborhood.

2. Organizing the closet so that appropriate outfits for the current season are within reach.

3. Identify simpler versions of activities that the individuals used to enjoy so that they can continue spending time on them.

For instance, if the said individual loved completing puzzles before a positive dementia diagnosis, the occupational therapist can look for easier puzzles that the person will continue to enjoy.

Reminiscence Therapy

reminiscence therapy for dementia
Also known as life review therapy, reminiscence therapy (RT) is one of the most common alternative therapies for dementia.

RT encourages individuals to revisit past memories.

It is a kind of talk therapy where experts use sensory aids or props to help spark memories.

Examples of these may include sounds, smells, songs, photos, or stories from an individual’s past.

The therapy can be conducted in a group setting or one-on-one sessions.

Reminiscence therapy can offer several benefits to affected individuals like:

  • Enhanced cognition
  • Improved behavior and mood
  • Higher confidence and self-worth
  • Better connection with loved ones
  • Reduced depression
  • Reduced agitation

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is beneficial to individuals with dementia because it can help enhance their balance reducing the chances of tripping, falling, and injuring themselves.

This is because the therapy mainly focuses on strength training, endurance, flexibility, and balance.

A physical therapist can come up with appropriate exercise programs that an individual can take part in to help them with movement.

Additionally, it can help with boosting mood and decreasing aggression.

When a person is active there is an increase in the release of endorphins that soothe the brain.

Most people who take part in physical therapy also enjoy improved sleep.

Physical therapy can also help a person maintain their independence a move that can help them conduct daily living activities like bathing, eating, grooming, and toileting without too much difficulty for the longest possible time.

Studies also show that physical therapy can also help with the slowing down of memory loss. Research indicates that it is one of the best ways to enhance brain health.

Music Therapy

Sound and music play are an important part of human life whether listening to it, dancing, or taking part in its creation. People respond to music at a tender age even before language and words develop.

For years, music is in use to engage and communicate with persons who have dementia. As the illness progresses, music can help enhance well-being and communication.

This is because music stimulates different parts of the brain which can help an affected person connect with past memories and express their feelings.

There are multiple different ways of incorporating music, including:

  • Singing a person’s favorite tunes
  • Playing instruments
  • Listening to a live performance or recorded music
  • Listening to music through headphones

Music therapy is normally conducted by a trained music therapist who can work with an individual or a group. This kind of therapy is known to reduce anxiety for most people with dementia.

It can also enhance cognitive function including perception, thinking, mood, feelings, and behavior. The therapy can also encourage physical exercise if it prompts a person to dance or move around while enjoying the beat.

Music also reduces the incidences of social isolation by encouraging social interaction and promoting activity in a group setting.

Art Therapy

art therapy for dementia
Art therapy is another example of beneficial alternative therapies for dementia. Most people with this progressive disease will enjoy taking part in various creative activities including art.

Art therapy creates a platform where persons with dementia can take part in fun art projects as they express their creativity. The therapy stimulates the brain in numerous ways.

For instance, it can help encourage speech or stir dormant memories. Art therapy can also create a sense of purpose and accomplishment for persons with the illness.

Some studies report that art activities can help enhance cognitive function and social interaction. Non-verbal seniors can start smiling, laughing, moving, or speaking once they take up art therapy activities.

Experts agree that the best forms of art therapy are the ones based on personal memories and passions. Examples of art activities that individuals with dementia can take part in include pottery, paint by number projects, watercolor painting, pencil or charcoal drawing, participating in community art projects and making cards, jewelry, and many more.

These activities can help boost hand strength, relieve stress, and stimulate senses.

Bright Light Therapy

Bright light therapy is a promising treatment that can help people who have dementia. The therapy is thought to affect brain chemicals related to sleep and mood.

Most persons who have dementia will experience sleep issues at some point during the illness. Bright light therapy can help normalize a person’s sleep-wake pattern.

Studies show that this type of therapy is most effective for persons with mild to moderate dementia.

The administration of this therapy is best done during morning hours so that it can entrain the circadian rhythm in a bid to reduce interruption of the normal sleep-wake cycle. This results in increased sleeping hours at night and less daytime sleeping.

Pet Therapy

pet therapy as alternative therapies for dementia
Also known as animal-assisted therapy, this is another example of useful alternative therapies for dementia. The therapy encourages persons with the illness to spend time with various types of domestic animals like cats, trained dogs, birds, fish aquariums, or aviaries, etc.

Spending time with pets offers unconditional love, companionship, and fun for persons with dementia thanks to their friendliness and non-threatening ways. The animals can either live with the affected persons or somebody can bring them once in a while.

Other benefits associated with this type of therapy include:

  • Improving mood
  • Encouraging social interaction
  • Better nutrition
  • Offering a calming effect
  • Improved physical activity
  • Reducing behavioral problems like aggression, agitation, anxiety, loneliness, and depression

Laughter Yoga

Some studies indicate that people with dementia can benefit from laughter yoga. The primary goal of this kind of therapy is to bring more laughter into the lives of individuals with the disease.

Laughter offers numerous health perks for complete mind and body wellness. It can help to relieve stress as a person gets to feel happy, positive, and relaxed after a session of genuine laughter.

The best part about this therapy is the fact that a person does not even have to comprehend a joke or punch line to start laughing.

Laughter is stimulated as a form of exercise ensuring that people just burst out laughing for no reason.

Aromatherapy

aromatherapy as an alternative therapies for dementia
Aromatherapy can be defined as an ancient healing practice where essential oils from herbs, trees, plants, and flowers are used to enhance the spiritual, mental, and physical well-being of affected people.

Essential oils can be applied to the skin or inhaled. Improving cognitive function in persons with dementia is one of the health benefits that come from aromatherapy. Needless to say, the therapy boosts brain performance and improves the ability to remember events.

Aromatherapy can also help to relieve some common dementia symptoms like depression and anxiety.

Numerous studies reveal that essential oils from lemon balm, bergamot, and lavender can help a person with dementia suppress agitation, aggression, and a host of other psychotic symptoms.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is one of the alternative therapies for dementia that continues to attract increased attention when it comes to medication alternatives that ease dementia behavioral symptoms.

Moreover, massage can be incorporated in dementia care to offer a human touch that offers a wide range of benefits to individuals with the progressive illness such as:

  • Reduced feelings of anxiety, isolation, and insecurity
  • Increased feelings of care and reassurance
  • Decreased levels of agitation
  • Improve sleep
  • Ease pain
  • Reduce physical expressions like wandering, pacing, and resisting care
  • Decreased heart rate and blood pressure
  • Inducing deep levels of relaxation

Massage therapy is also known to communicate comfort and support in palliative care. There are different types of massages that persons with dementia can benefit from including back massage, hand massage, and foot massage.

Acupuncture

acupuncture
Acupuncture is considered one of the safe and effective alternative therapies for dementia. It is an ancient Chinese method that is in use to treat various medical conditions for years. Acupuncture mostly involves the insertion of needles in specific locations of the human body to help restore proper energy flow to treat symptoms.

Controlled investigations divulge that acupuncture helps to enhance the flow of blood to the brain ensuring that the organ gets adequate nutrients and oxygen. Several studies show that acupuncture can also help in enhancing mood as well as cognitive skills.

Others indicate that acupuncture can help increase both motor and verbal skills as well as attention and memory. One of the studies also revealed that acupuncture can help treat depression and anxiety in people with dementia.

The studies, however, do not give conclusive results on whether acupuncture can help cure dementia; hence, more research still needs to be done on this treatment option.

Doll Therapy

Many people with dementia can also benefit from doll therapy. This normally involves the use of soft toy animals or life-like dolls. These offer “companionship” to the persons with the illness especially in the later stages of the illness providing perks like pleasure and relaxation without the responsibility of taking care of the dolls.

For some, holding a doll or soft toy helps them remember when they were holding their children or when they were caring for their beloved pets. This sensation that comes with holding something soothing can help offer a connection to the outer world renewing a sense of purpose in persons with the progressive illness.

This can also lead to an increased level of liveliness and activity levels. There is evidence that confirms that the use of soft toys or dolls can be especially helpful to persons who do not engage with others or are constantly struggling with anxiety, and restlessness.

Validation Therapy

validation therapy
A brief description of validation therapy would be a kind of counseling. A professional therapist will hold the hand of the person with the illness paying close attention to their feelings.

The experts are trained to study body language and the voice of the weak. This helps the professionals to communicate with persons with the disease in a manner that acknowledges their actions and words with empathy and respect instead of anger, embarrassment, or dismissiveness.

This type of therapy is normally offered to people who are in the last stage of dementia nearing the end of life. It usually helps the affected individuals feel sage, useful, loved, and at peace before breathing the last breathe.

Reality Orientation

When it comes to reality orientation, a person with dementia will work closely with a professional therapist who will repeat details about the place, time, and other crucial details regularly.

This helps the person with the illness stay oriented to the present moment a move that can help reduce confusion. Using large calendars and clocks can also help make things easier.

It is important to understand that reality orientation does not work for everyone who has dementia. This is especially for persons who believe that they are in a different place or time. In such instances, this type of therapy ends up upsetting the affected individuals.

Closing Remarks

Caregivers and persons who have dementia must approach the use of alternative therapies for dementia with care. This is because the therapies usually have different results on different people.

It is best to consult an individual’s doctor before trying out any therapy to be on the safe side. After trying out one option and it does not work, it is best to abandon it and look for the ones that will give the suffering individual the best results.

10 Best Living with Dementia Tips & Advice

Rok Krivec Blog, Prevention, Types , ,
living with dementia

There are ways and approaches that make living with dementia a lot less stressful on the person, loved ones and caregivers.

For most people, a positive dementia diagnosis means a life sentence full of nightmares and all the bad experiences imaginable.

These feelings are heightened by the fact that there is still no cure for the illness.

It is, however, important to note that living with dementia does not have to be the worst thing a person can go through.

Guide on Living with Dementia

Below you will explore some of the tips and recommendations that a person with dementia can work with to live a more fulfilling and independent life for the longest possible time.

1. Accept your Situation

living with dementia
After getting to know that you have dementia, it is tempting to keep the news to yourself and pretend that everything is in place.

This is the wrong move.

It is advisable to share the news with people who care about you.

It does not mean that you have to go on the rooftops and shout about your health condition.

Take as much time as you need but when you are ready, do not shy away from sharing this news with people you love whether it is your relatives or friends.

This way, they will be in a position to understand what you are going through, especially when you start going through some changes that the disease causes.

Communicate

As you share the news, it is important to understand that different people will take in the news differently.

Some will be shocked and they may immediately start treating you differently.

It’s important to communicate about dementia.

Many will do this because they do not know what dementia is and have no clue what to do to help.

Try and explain what your diagnosis means and also tell them the ways that they can be of assistance.

For instance, if you cannot drive, your support system can step in to drop and pick you up when you need to go somewhere.

As much as it is hard to accept, you can also find that you might lose touch with some individuals.

Try and take these changes in your relationships positively.

After all, you might end up meeting new people in support groups or while engaging in different activities.

2. Learn about Dementia

learn about dementia
Millions of people around the globe are battling with dementia and new cases are coming up every year.

A person who is living with dementia needs to have in-depth knowledge of the illness to live well with the condition.

Thankfully, there is a wealth of information about dementia, including its stages and helpful treatments.

Your doctor should give you details about the illness and also offer referrals to valuable resources.

Empowering yourself means that you will be more equipped to face the challenges that lay ahead. You will also know how to better handle the symptoms you get.

3. Take Care of Your Whole Being

living with dementia by taking care of your whole being
What this means is that you need to take good care of your physical body, spiritual, psychological, and emotional health.

In regards to physical health, it is important to engage in exercises that you can handle with ease.

You also need to check what you are consuming so that you are always eating a balanced diet. This way, the body will get the nutrients and minerals it needs to boost your immune system.

Take care of your psychical and physical health

Getting enough sleep is non-negotiable.

It is also prudent to take care of your mental health by participating in stimulating activities that you can find in classes or hobbies. Various group activities are also fun.

Your doctor might also propose that you cut down on smoking and drinking alcohol or stop altogether.

When it comes to emotional health, remember to allow yourself to go through a range of emotions, especially when you first get the news.

After accepting the situation, you can go ahead and join a support group. It is best to join one with people who have dementia, whether offline or online.

Also, it is a great coping mechanism because you will not feel like you are alone and members of the group can help each other through their journeys.

It is also crucial to find something that will nourish you spiritually.

Some individuals may gravitate towards spending time in nature, religion, or calming activities like yoga.

Do all it takes to live a happy, stress-free life when dealing with dementia.

4. Plan Ahead

people with early dementia need to plan ahead
Sadly, it may reach a point where a person living with dementia is not able to make proper decisions.

For this reason, it is vital to plan for your future when you are still independent and can make sound decisions.

Long-term plans for dementia

1. Choosing a person you trust to act on your behalf in terms of managing your medical and financial needs.

2. Creating a will so that after breathing your last breath, your possessions, money, and property will go into the persons you pick.

The state gets to decide who will get what if you die without having a valid will.

3. Making a statement in advance about the care that you want to receive during the later stages of the disease as well as where you want to receive the care from.

This is a written statement that will highlight your beliefs, wishes, preferences, and values in terms of future care.

The person that you choose to handle important issues in the future will be your attorney. Failure to pick an attorney means that no one will have the right to make decisions when you are not able to.

This is something that can make things difficult for your family because they may not be able to pay bills or make good decisions about your care.

When it boils down to this, a person may be forced to apply to become your deputy at a Court of Protection. This is a costly process that may end up taking a lot of time.

5. Live in a Dementia-Friendly Environment

live in a dementia friendly environment
An individual who has dementia should live in a comfortable and safe environment.

If you choose to live at home, some modifications that can be done to create a suitable living environment.

Some of the changes that you can make around the home include working with a recognizable and meaningful interior design that incorporates your life story complete with words and pictures.

Making sure the house has good natural lighting is also important when you want to reduce shadows and glare.

Detectors for falls, GPS, alarms, and sensors can help boost security.

A tablet or smartphone can also come in handy because you can use this to organize your life, keep track of what is going on, revisit videos, and photos, and also communicate with your relatives and friends.

6. Stay Active and Busy

people with dementia to stay active and busy
When you are living with dementia, it becomes easy to withdraw socially and wallow in self-pity. You must resist this urge if you want to enjoy a quality life even into the later stages of the illness.

Staying active is also important because it will give you a sense of self-worth and purpose.

Find activities that you love and enjoy them to your heart’s content. Many service providers today are sensitive to the needs of a person who has dementia.

Occupy your body and mind

For instance, some cinemas put on dementia-friendly screenings which means you can go out and enjoy the latest film.

Many leisure centers also run appropriate activities for persons with dementia which means that you have a long list of activities to choose from.

When moving about, it is imperative to carry a card that will let other people know you have dementia.

The card should include details of a person that others can contact if you get lost or are in some sort of emergency.

When you do not have the energy to jump or move around, there are other ways to keep busy. Examples of these include listening to music or doing crosswords.

If you have grandchildren, you can offer to babysit for a few hours. There is also the option to volunteer to avoid the risks of loneliness, isolation, and depression.

7. Follow Routines

People with dementia need to follow routines
Sticking to routines is another way that people who have dementia can live well.

Do the same thing at the same time each week or day. This is bound to reassure you while at the same time stimulating your memory.

Having set schedules can also help you reduce the time you spend thinking about what needs to be done next.

If you always forget about things you need to get done regularly, you can pin your to-do-list on prominent places. This can include things like switching off lights or locking doors.

Some people with the illness also say that it helps to carry a notebook and pen around where you can write down the tasks you need to complete in a day.

You may also find that it is helpful to put important things like keys or glasses in the same place daily so that you do not have a problem locating them.

Additionally, a clock that shows the day of the week and date can come in handy.

8. Set Realistic Goals

set realistic goals for dementia patients
It is not uncommon for a person who has dementia to want to prove to the world that they are overachievers and the disease is not pulling them down.

This may lead a person to become over-ambitious where they want to handle more than they can chew in regards to day-day activities.

When you find that you cannot do all the things you set out to it can be frustrating and you might even fall into depression.

For this reason, it is important to set realistic goals so that you only focus on things you can do and complete without too much struggle.

Seek help when necessary

Remember that it is okay to ask for help from professional caregivers, family, or friends when you are in need.

When you decide to take up any task, give yourself adequate time to complete it first so that you are not always rushing into new tasks creating more confusion.

Most importantly, do not pressure yourself to be successful. Accept that there are things you were once able to do in the past that you can no longer complete at present.

It is better to focus all your attention on the things you can control, rather than spending hours on the ones you cannot control. Even as people are helping, make sure that they are not taking over.

The people around you might end up offering more help than you need which will leave you with nothing to do.

9. Coping At Work

coping at work
During the initial stages of the disease, a person living with dementia may choose to continue working.

If you choose to take this route, it is important to let your boss know about your current health situation if you are employed.

Employers have a legal duty to take necessary steps to ensure you can continue working without too much difficulty.

This can include simplifying routines, changing work schedules, or availing technology like a computerized diary that will remind you of meetings and deadlines.

If you do not want to continue working, first research on matters pertaining to pension and other benefits you are eligible for before leaving the workforce.

This way, you will not be short-changed in any way.

10. Go for Regular Hearing, Eyesight and Dental Checks

go for regular hearing eyesight and dental checks
Having dementia most of the time means that you will also experience sensory loss. This makes it hard for you to make sense of the world.

Because of this, you must regularly schedule oral, hearing, and eyesight checks to live well with dementia.

Ideally, you should consult a professional who has experience supporting persons with the illness.

During these visits, your doctor may recommend the use of hearing aids or glasses.

Do not avoid doctors

You should never ignore dental checks because poor oral hygiene can, at times, affect your eating and drinking abilities.

At home, you should also take care of your dental health by brushing your teeth at least two times a day, flossing, and eating healthy foods that will not lead to cavities and other oral health problems.

If you are using dentures, ensure that they are comfortable. You can always set reminders to guide you on the times to remove and wear them.

Improve Memory: Blueberries and Dementia

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention , ,
blueberries and dementia

There has been a lot of interest in the topic of blueberries and dementia when looking into the foods that can help improve memory.

For years, researchers have been looking into whether consumption of blueberries can help prevent the onset of dementia or perhaps slow down its progression.

This is because blueberries have been known to keep blood vessels clear of plaque, fight off the harmful effects of free radicals, and give people a boost from plant-based chemicals.

Blueberries and Dementia Prevention Benefits

The little blue fruits have also gained a reputation for being brain food that can improve memory and cognitive function.

Several studies have been done to identify the link between berries and this progressive illness.

Below we explore a couple of studies that investigated the link between dementia and blueberries.

Blueberries can Help Slow Cognitive Decline

blueberries can help slow cognitive decline
Research published in Annals of Neurology reported that consuming flavonoids and berries slows down the rate of cognitive decline in women who are 70 years and older.

The study utilized data from a Nurse’s Health Study with over 120,000 registered nurses.

The researchers conducted the assessments on 16,010 participants all of whom were women. The Nurses Health Study commenced in 1976.

After four years, the participants were mostly asked questions about their eating habits. Over 16, 000 ladies also underwent memory testing between 1995 and 2001.

Researchers from different institutions including Harvard Medical School, Brigham Women’s Hospital, and German Centre for Neurodegenerative Disease uncovered that greater ingestion of strawberries and blueberries correlated with slower cognitive decline rates for up to two and a half years.

The ladies who showed the most improvement were taking two or more servings of berries weekly.

The authors of the study acknowledged that smaller trials of berry supplementation have also showcased positive results. They also stated that the study was only observational seeing that it primarily relied on dietary reporting from the nurses.

Furthermore, they also reported that it was not clear if the results would also apply to men because all the participants were ladies.

The authors encouraged males to take part in future studies to come up with more conclusive results. They also encouraged seniors to consume more berries as they can help delay memory decline.

Blueberries can Boost Brain Function

blueberries can boost brain function
Some studies also confirm that blueberries do not only improve memory, but they can also maintain brain functionc.

Animal studies investigating ties between blueberries and dementia reveal that blueberries contain tons of phytochemicals that have a wealth of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Additionally, anthocyanins and polyphenols present in blueberries can boost signaling in the brain centers that are associated with memory.

They also help to eliminate glucose which also helps to slow down memory decline.

Human studies on the same have also yielded promising results. In one of these studies, 12 seniors who had mild cognitive impairment took blueberry juice daily.

Blueberries can Improve Working Memory

They experienced improvements in functions of the brain and there was also evidence of improvements in working memory. This research is from the University of Exeter.

The researchers looked into the effects of the consumption of wild blueberry juice on memory decline in 12 adults who were aged 65-77. All the participants were experiencing memory decline related to aging showcasing symptoms like memory lapses.

The participants took 2 1/2 cups of blueberry juice for 12 weeks. This juice was made from commercially available frozen wild blueberries.

A comparison group of 14 adults was drinking a similar amount of placebo non-juice beverage for twelve weeks.

Researchers conducted several memory tests such as list learning, recall, and word association tasks before and after the study. The professionals also used an MRI scanner to monitor the brain function of the participants.

They also measured resting blood flow. The results indicated that the older adults who drank blueberry juice showed improvements in memory and learning tests when compared to the placebo group.

Researchers also said that they observed trends that suggested lower glucose levels and reduced depression symptoms among the participants who were drinking wild blueberry juice.

It is important to note that this study on blueberries and dementia excluded people who consumed more than 5 portions of vegetables and fruit daily.

The participants were told to stick to their normal diet throughout the entire study. Based on the results, more research needs to be done to confirm these results.

Blueberries May Lower the Risk of Dementia

blueberries and dementia
Blueberries are categorized among the superfoods linked to a lower risk of dementia.

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition observed 2,801 women and men who were over 50 years. At the beginning of the study, all the participants did not have dementia.

Over at least 20 years of follow-up, the professionals collected diet information at 5 periodic health examinations. 193 participants during this time developed Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia.

Lowered dementia risk was associated with intake of one type of flavonoid, anthocyanins abundant in red wine, strawberries, and blueberries.

Other foods that also contributed include oranges, pears, apples, tea, and bananas. The study controlled for numerous behavioral and health characteristics.

Additionally, subjects adhered to the government’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans which in addition to vegetables and fruits also emphasizes lean meats, whole grains, and other heart-healthy foods.

Paul F. Jacques the senior author of the study who is a scientist with Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Centre on Aging at Tufts University stated that consumption by the individuals who benefited was not huge.

The monthly average was about 71/2 cup serving of blueberries or strawberries, 17 cups of tea, and 8 apples or pears.

He explained that it did not take much and all it took was a couple of servings of berries weekly and maybe an apple or two.

Closing Thoughts

Health providers continue to be faced with multiple questions about recommendations for enhancing or maintaining cognitive function especially for people who have dementia.

Currently, several studies have been done to try and find out if there is a connection between the consumption of blueberries and dementia prevention.

Although many experts agree that taking blueberries is beneficial for the brain, further research is still necessary to confirm if they can help persons with dementia.

What is the Average Dementia Survival Time?

Rok Krivec Blog, Prevention , ,
average dementia survival

When someone is diagnosed with any type of dementia, what is the average dementia survival time?

Let’s find out.

Dementia is a disease that is believed to affect more than thirty million people across the globe. It primarily affects older people who are over the age of 65.

However, there is still a small percentage of the population that gets dementia at a younger age.

The incurable illness is characterized by continued progressive disability.

This makes predicting the average dementia survival time quite difficult.

What is the Average Life Expectancy With Dementia?

Studies, nonetheless, indicate that on average, four and a half years is the median for survival after the onset of dementia.

Because people’s experiences are usually different, survival can also vary between 3.8 years to 10.7 years or more.

You should understand that dementia, in most cases, is not the direct cause of death.

Several risk factors that can impact the life expectancy of a person who has dementia such as:

Age of Diagnosis

average dementia survival
The age where an individual is diagnosed with dementia might affect the number of years they have on earth. People who go through earlier diagnosis are likely to live longer.

Researchers working at the Johns Hopkins Schools of Public health uncovered that the average survival time for people who get a diagnosis at the age of 65 is 8.3 years.

On the other hand, on average, 3.4 is the average life expectancy for seniors who get diagnosed when they are 90. This is mostly because the latter do not have enough time to plan for care as the disease progresses.

Additionally, dementia may be identified when its later stages have already begun which naturally decreases the length of survival.

To add to this many seniors who have dementia are already frail and can be affected by other conditions or illnesses which may also contribute to an earlier death.

Younger individuals, on the other hand (under 65 years) may experience a slow decline since they have more energy; thus, end up living longer than the ones who are over 80 when they receive their diagnosis.

Gender

average dementia survival based on gender
Several studies report that gender plays a role when it comes to average dementia survival rates.

It is said that women end up living slightly longer than men who have dementia. Averagely, male persons can live to a ripe age of 87 while their female counterparts can go up to 90.

This is even though women are at greater risk of developing dementia. Statistics show that about 2/3rds of people who have dementia are ladies.

Severity of Symptoms

severity of symptoms
The symptoms that a person who has dementia showcases may greatly affect average dementia survival chances.

Individuals who have severe motor impairments like a long history of falls or the tendency to walk away and get lost may have shorter life expectancies.

This is one of the reasons why it is important to work closely with a doctor when a person has dementia.

After thorough examinations, the medic might identify some problem areas that can be treated effectively.

At this point, you should remember that dementia currently does not have any cure.

However, there are treatments that a person may go through to help ease symptoms. These can be in the form of medicine or alternative treatments like therapies.

Consequently, this can help add some years to the individuals’ life on earth.

Type of Dementia

type of dementia affects dementia survival
There are different types of dementia that can affect a person. This can also determine the life expectancy of the ill individual.

Note that each of the dementia types will have different rates of progression and patterns.

It is; therefore, important to get the proper diagnosis so that an individual can know how to deal with the dementia they have.

Let’s touch base on the average life expectancy of people who have different types of dementia.

1. Alzheimer’s Disease

This is the most common dementia cause characterized by a build-up of abnormal proteins that damage the brain.

The lifespan of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease is typically between eight-twelve years. Healthy and fit individuals, however, tend to live longer.

2. Dementia with Lewy Bodies

Lewy bodies can be described as small protein deposits that affect memory, movement and thought. About 7% of dementia cases account for dementia with Lewy Bodies.

Experts believe that people with this type of dementia may have about six-twelve years on earth after diagnosis. Survival can be shorter for people with severe symptoms.

3. Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia develops when small strokes continually damage the brain. Research indicates that life expectancy may be about four years.

This is mostly because Vascular dementia is also linked to other illnesses that cause that affect general health.

4. Frontotemporal dementia

Also known as Pick’s disease, this affects a person when there is damage in both their temporal and frontal brain lobes.

It is mostly diagnosed in people who are between the ages of 45-65.

Individuals with this type of dementia usually have about eight years to live from when the symptom start showing.

Alarmingly, the young-onset of the illness tends to progress faster.

This implies that a person who gets their diagnosis at thirty years to fifty may live fewer years than the one who is diagnosed at an older age.

Other Health Problems

other health problems
It is not uncommon for people with dementia to experience a host of other medical conditions.

Persons who have a history of heart attacks, heart disease, or diabetes might have shorter lifespans than the ones who do not have these health factors.

It means that persons who have dementia need to be very cautious about their health.

As a person grows older, they become more prone to infections and other diseases.

When these affect an individual, they can cause severe trouble to an individual, especially if they go untreated.

Persons with dementia should always consult with professional medical personnel talking about all the symptoms they are facing.

The medics can save a life opening up more years on earth.

Functioning Levels

functioning levels
The level of function is also one of the factors that can affect average dementia survival time. Some experts believe that persons who have higher levels of function may celebrate more birthdays.

This goes beyond memory and simple brain function.

Evidently, people who do more things for themselves have longer life-spans even with the presence of advanced dementia.

This is probably because they move around using their muscles without just sitting around something that is healthy for the body and mind.

Lifestyle Factors

lifestyle factors
The way a person chooses to live his/her life after a dementia diagnosis can also dictate how long they have on earth.

Some people do not receive the news well; hence, end up putting themselves into trouble.

They do this in several ways like drinking too much, smoking cigarettes, using medications without prescriptions and generally letting themselves go.

This is usually not a good move because it causes the immune system of the body to go lower, which means that one can end up making their exit on earth sooner.

It is advisable to be calm when you receive the news.

Yes, it may be daunting at first, but if a person chooses to take good care of themselves, there is a chance that they may end up living many more years without too much suffering.

Other factors that people may think may have an impact on longevity in persons with dementia include:

  • Whether a person lives at home or in an assisted facility
  • Whether an individual is married, divorced, or single
  • Level of education

In rare cases, individuals with less education live slightly longer than those with more education.

Some people may also argue that seniors living at home may be at an advantage of enjoying more years than the ones who are at a care facility.

In line with this, it may also seem like married people might enjoy a longer life expectancy than the ones who do not have partners.

The truth is after multiple studies, the differences in the above situations are not statistically significant.

How Many Years Does Treatment Add?

how many years does treatment add
Sadly treatment does not stop the progression of dementia. It only takes care of some of the symptoms, and in some cases, it can slow down the advancement of the illness.

This said, there is still no resounding evidence as to whether treatment can help add time to a person’s life or not.

Ultimately, the illness will progress and side effects and symptoms become worse as it takes a toll on the body and brain.

It is not to say that persons who have dementia should not consider treatment.

Talk to a professional doctor about possible treatment because it can help to treat some of the symptoms while at the same time improving the quality of life.

Closing Thoughts

Talking about average dementia survival time can be stressful and challenging.

Statistics can easily scare people with the illness and those around them especially caregivers.

However, not all people experience this progressive disease in the same manner.

Most people can still live good lives filled with togetherness and joy with dementia. Thankfully, there are loads of resources online that a person can use to help improve their dementia.

Mostly all they need is support, love, and a doctor’s guidance to live their lives to the fullest.

Palliative Care: an Underused Support in Dementia

Laura Herman Blog, Prevention ,
palliative care and dementia

When speaking about palliative care and dementia, the core focus is improving the person’s quality of life.

Taking care of a family member with dementia can feel incredibly overwhelming at times. There is so much to learn and figure out.

Often it seems that as soon you do get something figured out, everything changes again.

Enter the palliative care team. Specially trained healthcare professionals who focus on improving the quality of life for people with serious illnesses, and their families.

They work hand-in-hand with the person, their doctor(s) and family members to reduce distressing symptoms, enhance communication, coordinate care, and develop a plan to improve quality of life for the palliative care patient and their family.

What can Palliative Care Do for People with Dementia?

what can palliative care do for people with dementia
The goal of palliative care is to reduce suffering and enhance the quality of life for the ill individual as well as their family.

They are there to help react to problems and discomfort as they occur. However much of what the palliative care team strives to do is to prevent problems from arising in the first place.

By helping the patient and their family understand (to the extent possible) what might lie ahead, they can plan for smoother sailing and navigate around major icebergs, missing most of them altogether.

Assist with Advanced Care Planning

assist with advanced care planning
The medical and legal landscape can be confusing and difficult to navigate – all the more so for individuals overwhelmed by emotion, stress or health problems of their own.

Often, this is the case for families that experience dementia.

The palliative care team can help families understand their options.

They can lead conversations about planning for eventualities, such as:

  • Who is the best choice to advocate for the person as their cognitive abilities decline?
  • If the person is found unconscious and without a pulse should resuscitation be attempted, or would they prefer to allow nature to take its course?
  • Should feeding tubes, ventilators or other intensive treatments be considered? Under which circumstances?
  • What are the person’s beliefs and wishes as they pertain to pain control? Do they want to be kept pain-free at all costs, or would they prefer to deal with some pain, if it means being able to engage positively with family members?

The palliative care team can help ensure that the doctors and medical providers are on the same page with the person in terms of their goals.

Without advanced planning, people often end up spending the last portion of their lives undergoing intensive medical treatments. Spending time in and out of hospitals, rather than remaining comfortable in their own homes.

This can be extremely traumatic or stressful for the person and their family.

This type of advance planning can be especially helpful to undertake with someone in the earlier stages of dementia.

It can enable their voice, preferences and beliefs to be a bigger part of the conversation. Most families find that palliative care support is extremely valuable in this arena.

Minimize Distressing Symptoms of the Disease

minimize distressing symptoms of the disease
People with dementia, and their families, tend to experience a variety of distressing symptoms, such as anxiety and depression.

Pain is not normally a direct symptom of dementia, but because it can impair the person’s ability to recognize and communicate pain from other causes, there is a significant tendency to under-treat pain in people with dementia, according to researchers throughout Europe.

Pain is not only uncomfortable, but it is also exhausting. It can make it harder to think clearly, participate in meaningful activities, or comply with medical recommendations.

For example, it’s hard to comply with exercise recommendations when your feet hurt too much.

Pain is one of the major causes of challenging behavior in people with dementia. These behaviors contribute to their own stress levels, as well as those of their loved ones.

Pain assessment in dementia can be tricky.  Even for seasoned professionals in some cases – but it is well worth the effort.

The difference in behavior, functioning and personality in someone with dementia who is hurting, before and after the adequate treatment, can be truly astounding.

The palliative care team can help minimize pain, anxiety, depression, hoarding, paranoid thinking, challenging behaviors, and other symptoms of dementia.

Enable People to Reach their Goals

Palliative care is all about the quality of life, not just medical care. For example, if a person with dementia wants to spend more time with their grandchildren, or figure out how to keep their beloved cat, the palliative care team is passionate about supporting these goals.

They specialize in managing symptoms and overcoming barriers so that people can live their best life.

Palliative Care is Underutilized and Misunderstood

palliative care is nderutilized and misunderstood
According to the World Health Organization, 40 million people worldwide are in need of palliative care each year as they suffer with physical, emotional or spiritual pain near the end of their lives.

Only about 14% of these individuals currently receive palliative care. The best program availability is located in Europe, North America and Australia.

Most of the lack of utilization is due to the poor availability of palliative care programs. However, some people do have access to it but fundamentally misunderstand its scope.

Patients tend to confuse palliative care with hospice care. They believe that only people with terminal conditions, or those at the very end of life, need or can qualify for palliative care.

Hospice care is indeed for individuals who are expected by their doctor to be in their last few months of life.

However, palliative care is intended for people in any stage of a serious illness – from the time of diagnosis, in many cases – explains Karen Mulvihill, Director of Palliative Care Services at Danbury Hospital in Connecticut, USA.

In fact, palliative care can be most effective when in use as early as possible in the disease. It offers the best chance to prevent problems right from the beginning.

Palliative care can be delivered even while the person undergoes curative treatments, which is another place it differs from hospice.

Other misunderstandings include that palliative care or hospice are in connection to euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide.

This isn’t true.

A key tenant of palliative care holds that the team will do nothing to either hasten or postpone death. They focus on making the best regardless of how much time’s left.

Palliative Care can Improve Quality of Life for People with Dementia and their
Families


For many people living with dementia, palliative care support can alleviate a great deal of physical, emotional and spiritual suffering.

Palliative care can help navigate murky medical terrain, and enhance communication and coordination with medical providers.

Palliative care can help the person with dementia and their families define their goals, and figure out how to reach them.

By achieving these objectives, palliative care can dramatically improve the quality of life for people living with dementia and their loved ones.

For information regarding palliative care programs in your area, contact your doctor, social worker or community resource center.

Cognitive and Physical Exercise and Dementia

Rok Krivec Blog, Prevention , ,
exercise and dementia

Today, we will look at the best cognitive and physical exercise and dementia correlation, and how you can reduce the risk of the disease.

Developing dementia is one of the biggest concerns for the majority of people as they grow older.

The thought of getting the disease can be quite scary, especially for someone who has seen a loved one affected by the illness.

Benefits of Cognitive and Physical Activity for Dementia

Many individuals believe that all they can do is wait for a pharmaceutical cure for dementia and hope that they do not join the growing list of seniors with the disease.

Promising research, however, indicates that it is possible to reduce the risk of dementia through several effective yet simple lifestyle adjustments.

These include taking steps such as stress management, a healthy diet, quality sleep, social engagement, mental stimulation, and regular exercise.

By identifying and then controlling personal risk factors, it is possible to prolong/ maximize lifelong brain health.

Below we will focus on physical and cognitive exercise and the role they play in mitigating or slowing down the progression of dementia.

Cognitive Exercise

cognitive exercise
In regards to cognitive exercise and dementia, it is worth noting that continuously challenging the brain and learning new things puts you at less risk of developing dementia.

What this means is that you “will lose it if you do not use it.” Keeping the mind active is essential if you do not want your thinking capacity to decline medical research discloses.

This can help you in several ways, such as:

1. Reduce brain cell damage that occurs with dementia
2. Encourage better communication between the nerve cells
3. Support the growth of new nerve cells

Note that no single exercise will keep the brain sharp. You need to indulge in different exercises that will ensure your brain remains in the highest gear.

Some of the exercises you can try out to exercise your brain include:

Acquiring a new skill

acquiring a new skill
Learning how to play a musical instrument, studying a foreign language, reading a good book, or learning how to paint, etc. can be instrumental in helping the brain remain in tip-top condition.

Look around for classes you can join and set aside some time to practice regularly.

Keep in mind that the higher the challenge, novelty, or complexity, the greater the benefit.

Playing card or board games

playing card or board games
Playing games with loved ones has two benefits.

One is that you get an opportunity to bond and the other is that it helps the brain to stay sharper by making it work harder.

In as much as games like chess are fun to play, some research shows that it can lead to better math scores on various standardized tests.

Games like monopoly have also proven to enhance decision-making skills while sharpening cognitive function.

Puzzles are a great way to keep your recalling abilities high. These effects also help to keep dementia at bay.

Practice memorization and the 5Ws

exercise and dementia practice memorization and the 5Ws
When you start memorization, it is best to practice with something short before moving on to more complex things.

For instance, you can always start with the US capital states or books of the Bible, etc.

Creating patterns and rhymes can help to make memory connections stronger

When you are watching TV shows that may involve themes like crimes or feature detective, you can keep the brain active by thinking of the “Who, Why, When, Where, and What.”

When you capture these visual details repeatedly, you will keep the brain neurons firing.

Playing with children

playing with children
This is another excellent option everyone should be aware of when curious about exercise and dementia.

The young ones have vivid and rich imaginations that directly link to memories.

When a person spends time playing with kids, you join their interesting world. This is typically a world full of unusual details the brain needs to keep remembering.

Doctors also note that adults who take time to play with kids have low-stress levels.

Additionally, heart rate, blood pressure, and high cortisol levels can drastically reduce.

Staying in good moods for longer periods helps to preserve the brain as well as its higher functions.

Read books with problem-solving mysteries

read books with problem solving mysteries
Problem solving is one of the proven ways to exercise your brain. One of the easiest ways you can do this is by solving puzzling mysteries.

You can find these online or in books. Try and tackle at least one mystery every day.

This will baffle the mind forcing you to think deeply so that you can come up with a solution. It is an entertaining way of getting the brain to work.

Gardening

gardening
If you are a person who likes to connect with nature while tending to plants, gardening should be on your list of keeping the brain sharper.

Many people not only feel better, but they also do better after gardening sessions.

Experts suspect that exposure to natural light, touching the earth, getting into contact with soil probiotics, and satisfaction of seeing things grow helps to enhance brain function and mood.

Listening to soothing music

listening to soothing music
Playing music also falls into the category of group activities to be discussed when tackling the topic of exercise and dementia. Good music tames and soothes.

Research shows that listening to Mozart can help make babies smarter.

Musicians are also said to have a lower risk of developing dementia than the rest of the people.

Music is a combination of breath control, exercise, dexterity, memory games, science, math, art, listening feelings, and a lot more.

Although more research still needs to be done, it is possible that music therapy can help combat dementia. It is not all types of music, though.

Genres like jazz, ethnic, and classical offer the most benefit.

Physical Exercise

physical exercise
The other part to highlight when talking about exercise and dementia is the physical aspect.

You cannot dispute the fact that people who exercise frequently are healthier, make better food decisions and retain their mental health longer than the people who do not exercise.

Although exercise will not work on the brain directly, it positively affects levels of blood oxygen, hormones, and the nutrient load that flows in the body.

When you have better control of your body, it benefits the brain because it receives adequate levels of blood, nutrients, and oxygen.

Aerobic exercises especially help to improve memory and thinking because they help to increase heart rate.

Staying physically active has also been known to increase flexibility, strength, and also improve the quality of sleep.

This is a move that can help to reduce the development of dementia. When you exercise daily or several times a week for about 30-60 minutes, you may:

1. Keep learning, reasoning, and thinking skills sharper.
2. Delay the onset of dementia for individuals who are at risk of developing the disease or slow down the advancement of the illness.
3. Enhance judgment, reasoning, memory, and thinking skills for persons who have mild cognitive impairment.

To benefit from physical exercise, it is important to identify safe and enjoyable activities for a person’s ability level.

Some of the ideas you can borrow from include:

Walking

walking
This is one of the best exercises that a person can take part in. You do not even have to be outdoors to enjoy a great walk. An individual can decide that walking inside their house does them justice.

Regardless of the amount of time you take engaging in this activity, it is beneficial for the mind and body.

To make walking more pleasant, you can combine it with an errand such as rushing to the grocery store or walking your pet.

Dancing

dancing
If you enjoy dancing, you will not even feel as though you are engaging in exercise.

Dancing is a fun way to let loose and get the body moving a great addition to the things you need to do when discussing exercise and dementia.

You can opt to do this freestyle. This is where you switch on the music and burst your favorite move.

You can even get together with a couple of friends and head to the disco if this is something you will enjoy.

Alternatively, take things a notch higher and sign up for a professional dance class. The goal is to have a blast while doing some good for your entire body.

Weight or resistance training

weight or resistance training
This is where you work out muscles against an external force. This type of exercise offers multiple benefits.

These include increased flexibility, bone density, tendon, muscle, and ligament strength, improving posture, and metabolic rate.

Yoga

yoga
Although yoga cannot be described exclusively as a physical exercise, it is important to mention it as the activities to try when thinking about exercise and dementia.

Experts advise that you combine yoga and medication for the best results. This can help to improve focus, de-stress, reduce anxiety, enhance mood, and increase healing among many other benefits.

Although it is still difficult to understand specialists explain that a meditating brain is different from the awake brain.

Studies are underway to help people grasp this concept more.

Regular physical and cognitive exercise is crucial for everyone to stay mentally and physically fit.

This is despite the fact that extensive research needs to be conducted to show the degree of physical and cognitive exercise that helps to improve memory or slow down the advancement of cognitive decline.

12 Benefits of Occupational Therapy and Dementia

Rok Krivec Blog, Prevention , ,
occupational therapy and dementia

By understanding the close connection between occupational therapy and dementia, you know the support a patient gets from a professional is crucial.

Dementia is a condition that develops as a result of brain damage causing impaired cognition.

To date, there is still no cure for the progressive illness. People with dementia, however, may be put under other treatments that can help deal with the symptoms of the disease.

These allow one to be as comfortable and independent as possible even when battling dementia.

One of the helpful treatment options that a person with dementia can try is occupational therapy (OT).

Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Dementia

We can describe this as a client-centered health profession discipline that deals with promoting wellbeing and health through occupation.

Occupational therapy experts approach the illness as a condition that interrupts occupational performance.

They evaluate persons who have the illness to determine their level of impairments and strength as well as the performance areas where they need help. This has proved to be helpful in several areas.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits that people with dementia get from occupational therapy.

1. Improving Safety

occupational therapy and dementia
Studies show that occupational therapy can help increase the safety of people who have dementia. This is one of the reasons it is important to talk about occupational therapy and dementia.

A huge percentage of people with the illness are at high risk of falling that can result in quicker decline, hospitalization, not being able to care for themselves, or having to move out of the house, etc.

Working with a qualified therapist can help to prevent this.

The professionals assess home safety and the environment where the individual with dementia spends the most time in.

This allows them to make practical recommendations about the changes that need to happen to keep the person safe.

OT therapists can also recommend the equipment that a person needs to use daily to reduce injury incidents.

The therapists can also go a step further to offer guidance on how to make day to day activities more manageable.

These may include the installation of shower bars, removal of carpets, or use of wheelchairs where necessary.

2. Offering Support and Education to Caregivers

offering support and education to caregivers of dementia patients
In as much as OT experts work with people who have dementia directly, they also offer assistance to caregivers.

They do this in several ways.

One of them is by setting up routines that make the work of looking after your loved ones a little bit easier.

Effective routines are essential.

They can make sure that the individual who has dementia is eating and drinking right, taking their medication at appropriate times, and has decreasing problem behaviors.

An OT can offer guidance in areas like:

  • Reducing distractions
  • Availing instructions that are easy to comprehend
  • The use of visual cues
  • Breaking down tasks to make them simpler

The therapists play a crucial role in relieving the burden on caregivers because their job primarily involves promoting independence.

Working with the OT experts also means that caregivers are not alone.

The collaboration between the professionals and relatives of friends enables the person who has dementia to continue participating and enjoying life.

3. Promoting Social Relationships

promoting social relationships with people with dementia
Many people who have dementia tend to exhibit some behaviors that can put a strain on their relationships.

This is where you will find they become socially withdrawn or other people do not want to spend time with them. This can lead to loneliness which is not good for any person.

An OT professional will study the behavioral problems that are affecting social interactions and close relations.

The expert will help the individuals with the illness and their caregivers identify the trigger in a bid to offer possible solutions.

This can help deal with communication problems, frequent outbursts, and how to positively respond to underlying emotions.

Here the person who has the condition may benefit from opportunities to engage in fulfilling tasks.

It can be something as simple as fun puzzles, folding laundry or sorting objects.

4. Enhancing Recollection of Memories

enhancing recollection of memories
Communication skills are one of the key areas that occupational therapists handle when it comes to occupational therapy and dementia.

In line with this, the professionals can also guide an individual in showing them how to use reminiscence.

It is a move that can help one remember valuable memories that can either bring joy or tears.

By remembering things in the past, the person can feel more secure, confident, and at peace.

5. Access To Other Helpful Services

access to other helpful services
There are times when an OT therapist will not have all the answers. This does not mean that they will leave the person they are looking after in a limb.

The therapists usually offer services under a larger group of health and social care teams.

It implies that they can connect a person with dementia to the right professionals who will offer the services they need. It is important to note that people can talk to therapists about any aspect of their health.

Based on this, they will be able to direct an individual to the networks and organizations that will offer help.

6. Helps to Enhance Cognitive Function

helps to enhance cognitive function
Occupational therapists can work with people who have dementia to help them improve or maintain cognitive function. Cognitive function refers to several mental abilities.

These may include decision making, learning, attention, remembering, reasoning, thinking, and problem-solving.

One of the ways that professionals can offer assistance is by taking persons with dementia through activities that stimulate cognitive skills.

This is especially useful during the first stages of the illness because it can help to delay progression and prolong independence.

7. Improve Balance and Strength

improve balance and strength
The experts can also help with the restoration of physical skills which can include a range of motion, endurance, and strength.

This is where exercise comes into play when discussing occupational therapy and dementia.

OT professionals can pick the right type of exercises that a person with dementia can comfortably engage in depending on their ability.

This may result in improving the person’s strength and balance so that they can enjoy life more.

8. Assist In Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

assist in maintaining a healthy lifestyle
Occupational therapists go beyond assisting persons who have dementia stay active. They also offer a hand in regards to maintain a daily lifestyle.

This is where the professionals help the persons to perform various functional activities that are vital to their lifestyles.

These include things that give the person under their care purpose in life or enjoyment.

The therapists play a huge role in ensuring that persons with dementia function to the best of their abilities.

This is whether they are out playing golf, gardening, playing with grandchildren, group activities, or performing tasks in the office.

9. Assist with De-stressing

assist with de-stressing
OT also comes in to enhance the emotional well-being of a person who is suffering from the disease.

Many people who have dementia will become depressed because their functionality becomes limited in one way or another.

The professionals do their best to offer positive emotional support.

They will identify the things that make the person with dementia happy and the tasks they can complete without too many complications.

This can help an individual focus on the things that they can do.

Additionally, the experts can incorporate relaxation techniques and exercises in a person’s daily routine.

This has been known to reduce stress or anxiety as the seniors are able to regain some sense of independence and self-esteem something great for their mental health.

10. Help with Major Life Transitions

help with major life transitions
The topic of occupational therapy and dementia is quite vast and important for people who have the illness as well as their caregivers.

As aforementioned, dementia is a progressive disease. This means that as months or years go by, people with the illness may have to make some drastic changes in their lives.

These may including having to retire from work or even move from their home into an appropriate senior residence.

Naturally, most people will not have an easy time dealing with these changes.

Occupational therapists have the skill-set required to guide persons through these life transitions to make them as smooth as possible.

11. Helps to Keep other Diseases at Bay

helps to keep other diseases at bay
When a person with dementia is going through occupational therapy, they lower the risk of getting other diseases.

For instance, the experts can offer advice on relevant modifications that need to happen around the workplace or at home.

These can help the elderly tackle illness like arthritis so that they can continue to perform tasks normally for the longest possible time.

If a person already has arthritis, the therapist can help them use their hands differently to reduce pain. The professionals can also guide on the best resting positions to increase comfort.

12. Assist with Vision Loss

assist with vision loss
It is also important to talk about vision loss when talking about occupational therapy and dementia.

If a person who has dementia is also suffering from vision loss issues like glaucoma, occupational therapists can work with them to promote visual awareness.

This is through helpful activities that help in reinforcing perceptual skills. The professionals may also suggest some changes at home that can help with the situation.

These may include more contrast and lighting, color-coded ID tags, and the use of equipment like magnifiers. Therapists can also suggest the removal of items that can post as tripping hazards.

10+ Best Incontinence Products for Dementia Patients

Laura Herman Blog, Prevention, Resources , ,
incontinence products for dementia patients

There are numerous incontinence products for dementia patients, and each has dozens of variations.

Different combinations of products may be right for different individuals, and a person’s needs may evolve over time.

Incontinence Products for Dementia

ProductFeaturesAvailable on Amazon
Prevail Air Plus Adult DiaperPrevail Air plus Daily BriefSoft & breathable
Ultimate absorbency
Pack of 4 (18 count)
Night & day
Skin smart
Omni-odor guard
Wellness BriefWellness Superio Series BriefsBrand: Unique WellnessFully Absorb up to 2.6L
Wide absorbent core
Resealable landing zone for easy adjustment
White with a nylon based crinkle-free plastic
Value for money
Stays dry for 8+ hours
Award winner/ Featured on Discovery Channel
One Piece Waterproof Snap-on Brief Re-usableOne Piece Waterproof Snap-on Diaper Cover BriefBrand: SalkLightweight
Softness of cloth
100% waterproof
Polyester/urethane outer
Brushed polyester inner
Super-absorbent pad
3-ply inner layer
Waterproof outer layer
Washable
SOSecure Containment Swim BriefSOSecure Containment Swim BriefBrand: Discovery Trekking Outfitters Discreet Swimming Undergarment
Durable Polyurethane Fabric
Fleece Lining
Hook and Loop Closure (Easy)
Elastic Waist & Legs
Machine Washable
Latex Free
Prevail Overnight Bladder Control PadsPrevail Overnight Bladder Control PadsBrand: First QualityFor Women
Dri-Fit cotton enhanced
QUICK WICK Layer and cotton
Odor Guard
Depend Men GuardsDepend Men GuardsBrand: Kimberly ClarkAdhesive strips to hold guard in place
Individually wrapped
Discreet- pocket-sized pouch
Easy carrying and disposal
Contoured design
Cup-shaped protection for men
One size fits most
Medline Incontinence Bed PadsMedline Incontinence Bed PadsUnderpads
50 count
36"X36"
Heavy absorbancy
Polypropylene backing (protects against leakage & resists melting)
Ideal for overnight use
Inspire Washable and Reusable Incontinence Chair or Bed PadsInspire Washable and Reusable Incontinence Chair or Bed PadsWashable/reusable
Solves incontinence problems
Safely absorbs & lock in liquids
Soft & comfortable
Non-irritating
Attends Bariatric 2X-Large UnderwearBariatric 2X-Large UnderwearBrand: AttendsImproved side panels (better comfort & fit)
Acquisition layer
Super absorbent polymer
Tear-away sides (easy removal)
Looks & feels like regular underwear
Bag of 12
Depend Mens Maximum Absorbency UnderwearDepend Mens Maximum Absorbency UnderwearBrand: Kimberly ClarkOutstanding protection
Improved underwear-like fit
Brief-like leg opening
Heavy incontinence
Soft, quiet, breathable material
Conforms to the body
Washable Absorbent Urine Incontinence Underwear for WomenAIRCUTE Washable Absorbent Urine Incontinence Underwear for Women6 layers
High waist
Absorbent & leakproof
Washable
Breathable
Comfortable
Prevail Adult WashclothPrevail Adult WashclothBrand: First Quality
Super strong & soft fabric (12" x 8")
Stay-open & easy-close lid
Press 'N' Pull lid
Super strong soft fabric
Aloe & lanolin
Lid closes tightly

Don’t call them diapers

Many people refer to incontinent products for dementia as “diapers,” but the term has a strong connotation with infants.

It is generally considered to be disrespectful, infantilizing and tactless.

It should not typically be used when referring to adult absorbent undergarments (unless the person themselves prefers that term).

Words like “pads” or “briefs” would be an appropriate way to refer to these products.

Products designed to be worn inside, or instead, of underpants

Incontinence Products for Dementia Patients

  • Pantiliners – a very thin pad that adheres to underpants for small leaks
  • Disposable pads – adhere to underpants, but are thicker and more absorbent than pantiliners
  • Pull up briefs / disposable underpants
  • Washable pads, liners or absorbent underpants
  • Reusable vinyl waterproof underpants covers
  • Wraparound tab briefs – similar to a traditional “diaper” design
  • Extended wear – Products designed for extended use keep urine away from the skin
  • Brief liners – designed specifically for use in a brief to boost absorbance or easily remove if damp
  • Insert – for use with special underpants designed with a pocket to hold a disposable or washable pad insert
  • Condom catheter or body-worn urinal – Designed to fit over a penis and collect urine in a bag

Products to protect furniture from wetness

  • Waterproof bed sheets
  • Washable bed pads
  • Disposable bed pads
  • Waterproof mattress pads

Other supportive equipment

  • Raised toilet seat with handles – this can make it easier to get on or off the toilet
  • Portable bedside commode
  • Urinal

When the Person with Dementia won’t Keep a Brief On

when the person with dementia won't keep a brief on
If someone with dementia keeps removing their brief, pay attention for clues to determine a likely reason.

Is the problem specific to briefs or are they pulling at other clothing too? Does it happen mainly at night or after bathing? Understanding the reason behind it is essential for finding a solution.

Common reasons for removing clothing or briefs can include:

  • Feeling too warm
  • Ill-fitting brief or pants
  • Wet, damp or soiled brief

Is the person new to wearing briefs (or wearing a new type or brand)?

Briefs can be bulky or uncomfortable, especially when they feel unfamiliar.

Start with the smallest, thinnest or most comfortable product that will meet their needs. This might mean changing them more frequently.

is the person with dementia new to wearing briefs

Be sure to minimize incontinence with a toileting plan.

Try a different style

It is worth experimenting with various brands and styles to find something more comfortable or successful.

Look for patterns

1. Do they remove the brief mainly at night? Try going without the brief if possible, using several bed pads for absorbance instead. It may help to tuck an additional bed pad up between the person’s legs.

2. Does it happen mainly when the brief is damp? It may help to use a brief liner, or alternate style of brief that pulls wetness away from the skin. Allow skin to dry fully after a shower or wash-up to ensure there is no lingering feeling of dampness.

3. Are they removing the brief when they need the restroom? It may be a non-verbal sign that the person needs to use the restroom.

4. Do they seem to have bored or restless hands? Giving them something interesting for their hands, such as super soft fuzzy gloves, or a dementia fidget lap blanket with lots of interesting textures and items for their hands to explore.

Is this a sudden change?

A sudden change probably indicates a problem other than the brief itself.

Look for signs that the person might be uncomfortable, especially in the abdomen or perineal area.

Possible conditions that could cause discomfort include:

Special clothing for special situations

Although there are specialty clothing designed to prevent people from removing their own clothing – such as a jumpsuit with a zipper in the back – there are ethical concerns about restricting normal access to one’s body. They can cause distress in some cases.

In many places, these types of clothing are considered restraints.

What if the Person with Dementia won’t Change their Brief when Needed?

what if the person with dementia won't change their brief when needed
There are many potential complications of wearing a soiled brief too long. It greatly increases one’s risk of urinary tract infections, rashes, skin breakdown, and pressure sores.

Unfortunately, it’s an all-too-frequent problem in dementia care.

There are dozens, if not hundreds, of unique reasons – and as many potential solutions. A few examples include:

Set them up for independence

Keep pads and supplies easily within sight and reach from the toilet.

Catch them when they’re in the restroom

Getting them onto the toilet in the first place is often the biggest challenge. Once they’re there, it can be much easier to access the brief to change it.

Avoid “taking” anything without giving something in return

Hand them a clean pad to hold while you swap out the soiled one for another.

Spare their pride

Present non-rinse soap, wetness barrier cream, or other appropriate skincare products as a medical treatment, for example, to “prevent infection” or to “protect your skin.”

Not only are these statements true, they also take the focus off of their incontinence, which can spare their pride – and their need to fight for it.

Incontinence can be Embarrassing, Inconvenient and Challenging

Successfully managing it can make a big difference in terms of quality of life, physical health and mental well-

Is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Reversible?

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention, Signs , ,
is normal pressure hydrocephalus reversible

One of the questions that often comes up when looking into the reversible causes of dementia has got to be “is normal pressure hydrocephalus reversible?”

Before answering this query, it is important to discuss what normal pressure hydrocephalus (NHP) is.

What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

The brain has chambers that are known as ventricles. These ventricles usually contain a fluid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) which protects and cushions the spinal cord and the brain.

It is also responsible for supplying them with nutrients and eliminating some waste products. The body typically makes enough CSF that it absorbs daily.

However, there are times when too much of the fluid builds up in the ventricles leading to NPH.

This can result in brain damage because the extra fluid can cause expansion of the ventricles which puts pressure on the brain tissues.

NPH mostly affects the parts of the brain that control the bladder, legs, and mental cognitive processes like reasoning, memory, speaking, and problem-solving.

Even though NPH can affect anyone, it is common among seniors who are in their 60s and 70s.

Appropriately 700,000 Americans are living with NPH according to Hydrocephalus Association. It is also known as “treatable dementia.”

This is because it is one of the dementia causes that can be reversed or controlled with treatment.

Causes of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

causes of normal pressure hydrocephalus
Several factors contribute to excess fluid build-up in the brain ventricles and these may include:

  • Brain surgery
  • Infection
  • Head injuries
  • Bleeding around the brain
  • Brain tumors
  • Stroke
  • Worth noting is that some people will develop NPH even in the absence of the factors above

Symptoms of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus
Examples of NPH warning signs include:

  • Confusion
  • Mood Changes
  • Apathy
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Difficulties thinking
  • Depression
  • Challenges with responding to questions
  • Speech problems
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Problems with vision
  • Mild dementia that may involve loss in interest in day to day activities, challenges completing routine tasks as well as short-term memory loss and forgetfulness
  • Having trouble walking, falling, changes in the way a person walks, poor balance, and getting stuck or freezing when a person wants to walk

Diagnosing NPH

diagnosing NPH
It is usually challenging to diagnose normal pressure hydrocephalus because its symptoms are similar to those of other diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

Many cases go unnoticed because the disorder is usually misdiagnosed.

This means that it often goes untreated. Doctors may use several tests to rule out other conditions and diagnose NPH such as:

  • Brain scans (MRI or CT)
  • Cisternography: this is a test that highlights the absorption of CSF
  • Intracranial pressure monitoring: this is a diagnostic test that helps medics determine if there is low or high CSF pressure causing symptoms.
  • A Lumbar catheter or spinal tap: this is a procedure that measures CSF pressure. Doctors also use this to remove some of the fluid located close to the spinal cord for analysis to help them spot any abnormalities that may direct them to the problem
  • Medical interviews where doctors ask a person about the symptoms they are experiencing, past and current mental and medical problems, medications a person is taking, family medical problems, habits and lifestyle as well as travel and work experiences.
  • Detailed physical exams that may include testing mental status, neuropsychological tests, and lab tests that help to rule out other medical conditions with similar symptoms.

Treating NPH

treating NPH
You will be happy to learn that normal pressure hydrocephalus is reversible.

In most cases persons will NPH will go through surgery so that medics can place a shunt or tube in the brain to drain off any surplus fluid.

Medics will insert the shunt into a ventricle and then pass it under the skin from a person’s head to their abdomen through the neck and chest.

This way, the excess fluid will flow from the brain into the abdomen where the body will absorb it.

At this point, the ventricles in the brain can go back to their original size.

The shunt can remain in position as long as the brain has too much CSF.

Regular follow-ups by a professional physician are essential because it helps to identify if there are any subtle changes that can show if there is a problem with the shunt.

When implanted properly, the shunt is usually not obvious to other persons and it remains in place for an indefinite period.

Most people will enjoy full recovery after treatment and continue to enjoy a good, quality life.

However, not everyone will benefit from implanting a shunt because the method does not work for a small percentage of individuals.

Although normal pressure hydrocephalus is reversible, its symptoms will become worse when it is left untreated.

It is advisable to get an early diagnosis and prompt treatment because this may increase the chances of good results.

Currently, no other medical treatment or drug has been known to help reverse normal pressure hydrocephalus.

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