Signs - ReaDementia

Understanding Poor Balance and Dementia

Rok Krivec Blog, Signs June 2, 2021November 19, 2023balance and dementia, dementia

We found it essential to understand the connection between poor balance and dementia when carrying for grandparents.

As a consequence, we combined our experience with studies to bring you this EXTENSIVE OVERVIEW of balance loss in dementia.

Persons living with dementia normally experience poor balance at several stages.

Some people will start losing balance when walking or standing before other dementia symptoms start to develop. This may be an indication that the individual is at risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

Understanding Balance Loss in Dementia (+ Tips)

Researchers from the University of California conducted a study that identified a strong correlation between the risk of dementia and poor balance. They used 2 types of physical performance tests: the 13-foot walking test and the standing balance test.

The professionals discovered that poor balance recorded the strongest association with dementia incidences.

It can also be a sign that an individual is already suffering from another type of dementia.

A person may exhibit loss of balance differently depending on the type of dementia they have.

For instance, for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), loss of balance is TYPICALLY a sign of the late stages of the illness.

When seniors are experiencing poor balance and they are not showcasing memory loss or any other early dementia warning signs, vascular dementia may cause poor balance.

Causes of Poor Balance for Individuals with Dementia

Individuals experience poor balance and dementia for a variety of reasons and some of them are:

Damaged Brain Vessels

If an individual has vascular dementia, it means that damaged blood vessels are blocking or reducing the flow of blood to the brain. This can cause problems with balance, movement, and weakness on one side of the body.

This is mostly because the illness NEGATIVELY affects the cerebellum. The cerebellum is the part of the brain that is responsible for controlling body movements.

It is located close to the back base of the skull. Because dementia is a progressive illness, the symptoms only get worse over time.

Alzheimer’s disease

AD is another reason people will experience poor balance. This normally happens in the later stages of the illness.

As the brain cells continue to deteriorate, neural communication in the body also becomes worse. This causes people with Alzheimer’s to have challenges seeing, walking, and processing information about the physical environment.

All this ends up affecting a person’s balance.

A majority of people will start changing how they walk as they START shuffling their feet rather than lifting them with each step.

This makes it very hard to walk, a loss of balance, and falls also become more likely.

Medications

Many drugs that seniors take cause light-headedness or dizziness which can increase the risks of falls.

These can include medications prescribed for blood pressure or the ones that individuals take to relieve other symptoms they may have.

Consulting a doctor may help confirm whether the medications a person is taking are causing loss of balance.

The professional will then CHANGE the drugs to options with less or no interactions.

Note: Hearing aids and cochlear implants that are rooted inside the ear could also be the cause of dizziness and vertigo which may explain why a person has balance issues.

Identifying Balance Problems

Several signs may be an indication that a person had poor balance such as:

Walking unsteadily
Bumping into things
Shuffling of feet instead of lifting them
Stooped posture
Turning through small steps instead of pivoting on heels

Dealing with Poor Balance and Dementia

When a person with dementia is experiencing issues with balance, there are a few tips they can work with to help cope with the changes.

Early Detection

An early dementia diagnosis may help LIMIT the severity and impact of poor balance.

It is, therefore, important for anyone who suspects having any type of dementia to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

This increases the chance of catching the illness early.

Home Improvements

If the person with dementia is experiencing poor balance and is still leaving at home, it may be important to make some adjustments at home to create a more secure environment.

These include the installation of walk-in-baths/ showers or wet rooms to make bathing easier and safer.

Installation of anti-slip floors, handrails, seats, and low threshold entry points can also help.

Try and ENSURE that the home is easy to navigate as this reduces accidents while ensuring affected persons retain their independence.

By creating a dementia-friendly home, you may be able to leave someone with dementia home alone for longer.

Working Out

If a person is able; it helps to engage in exercises like leg lifts, Tai Chi or riding a stationary bike.

Exercises are important for people with poor balance and dementia because it not only increases flexibility but it also enhances memory and lowers anxiety.

Low-impact workouts can also help strengthen leg muscles, improve balance, and maintain bone density.

Mobility Aids

The use of mobility aids like walkers and canes can help people with dementia maintain balance and become more comfortable when walking or standing.

Remember to talk to a physical therapist or doctor before getting any mobility aid so that the experts can GUIDE YOU on the most effective aid to purchase.

Balance and Dementia Closing Thoughts

Caring for a person with dementia means that the caregiver at some point may have to deal with poor balance and dementia.

It is important to understand what causes balance issues and come up with effective ways of dealing with the problem.

This way, the person with the progressive illness gets to lead a more COMFORTABLE LIFE and reduces the risk of falls, pain and other accidents.

Gut Health and Dementia (Improve It Now!)

Rok Krivec Blog, Prevention, Signs May 20, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, digestive system, gut health

For years, we have been looking into the connection between gut health and dementia.

This is in a bid to identify factors that CAN HELP reduce the risk of developing the progressive neurodegenerative disease.

Dementia is not an individual disease but a general term for loss of language, memory, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities that interferes with an individual’s day-to-day life.

Gut health, on the other hand, refers to a range of functions that the digestive system is responsible for.

This INCLUDES digestion, absorption of nutrients, production of hormones, and keeping a stable amount of bacteria, etc.

It has been proven both clinically and theoretically that poor gut health is one of the major causes of Alzheimer’s as well as neurodegeneration.

Connection between the Brain and Gut

Before digging deeper into the relationship between gut health and dementia, it interesting to learn about the gut-brain connection.

Almost everyone has had butterflies in their stomach or gut feelings.

The sensations that come from the belly suggest that the gut and brain HAVE a CONNECTION.

These two organs are connected both biochemically and physically in several ways.

The gut-brain axis refers to the communication system between the gut and the brain.

Other similarities the organs have include:

Presence of Neurons

Neurons are cells that are primarily found in the nervous system and the brain that instruct the body on how to behave.

The human brain has approximately 100 billion neurons.

Surprisingly, the gut has 500 million neurons that are connected to the brain THROUGH NERVES located in the nervous system.

The vagus nerve is one of the biggest nerves in the body that connects the brain and the gut. It sends signals in both directions.

A human study found that individuals with Crohn’s disease or IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) also experienced reduced vagal tone. Meaning that a person has reduced function of the vagus nerve.

Another mice study discovered that feeding the animals probiotics reduced the stress hormone amount in their blood.

However, after cutting the vagus nerve, probiotics did not have any effect.

It goes to show that the vagus nerve IS CRUCIAL in the gut-brain axis as well as its role in stress.

Neurotransmitters

The brain and the gut are also connected through neurotransmitters chemicals. The brain produces these to control emotions and feelings.

Fascinatingly, gut cells also produce many neurotransmitters.

Research indicates that the gut produces a huge portion of serotonin a neurotransmitter that controls the body clocks and contributes to feelings of happiness.

The Immune System

The immune system also connects the gut-brain axis. Gut and gut microbes play an ESSENTIAL ROLE in the immune system as well as inflammation.

This is though controlling what is passed into the body and the things that are excreted.

If the immune system stays switched on for too long, it can result in inflammation which is linked to various brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and depression.

Certain bacterial make LPS (lipopolysaccharide) an inflammatory toxin that can cause inflammation when a lot of it passes to the blood from the gut.

It mostly happens when the gut barrier is LEAKY allowing LPS and bacteria to cross into the blood.

High LPS and inflammation are associated with brain disorders like dementia, schizophrenia, and severe depression.

Microbes

Although the brain does not have any microbes, the trillions of microbes that live in the gut make chemicals that affect how the brain functions.

Gut microbes produce tons of SCFA (short-chain fatty acids) that affect how the brain works, for instance, reducing appetite.

This is because they produce SCFA by digesting fiber.

Experts agree that a healthy diet alongside lifestyle factors plays a major role in decreasing dementia risk by about a third.

Microbiome

Some professionals as a way of finding out how this is possible opted to study the gut microbiome. Which are the trillions of microorganisms that live in the human digestive tract.

Researchers discovered that certain changes in these bacteria are linked to several autoimmune and inflammatory conditions like diabetes, obesity, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Scientists also revealed that some kinds of microbiome bacteria can promote the build-up of tau and amyloid proteins. These proteins are linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) one of the most common causes of dementia.

Mouse studies confirmed that dietary changes can alter the microbiome which can lower inflammation, reduce amyloid plaques and in turn enhance memory.

Lipids

There is also research suggesting that an individual’s ability to metabolize specific lipids can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

Lipids can be described as fat-like substances found in the body tissues and blood that make up most of the human brain.

Senior Director of Medical and Scientific Operations at Alzheimer’s Association Heather Snyder said that if a person’s body has challenges moving around lipids, it may end up impacting the structure and function of the brain.

Let’s look at some of the studies that have been conducted regarding the connection between gut health and dementia and their implications.

Studies Supporting the Connection between Gut Health and Dementia

Several studies have been conducted to reveal the relationship between various types of dementia and gut health.

Below we look at some of the research that has been making headlines in the dementia world.

1. Impact of Lipids

Two studies sought to discover the impact of lipids on the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. One of the studies was carried out at the University of California.

The researchers studied 800 seniors some with full-blown Alzheimer’s, others with mild cognitive impairment, and others healthy.

They discovered that the participants with Alzheimer’s also had numerous issues with lipid metabolism like having a hard time absorbing the lipids that contain DHA and EPA.

Researchers tried to give this group of people fish oil supplements, but this action did not bring the lipids back to normal.

The other study was conducted by researchers from Duke University and the University of Pennsylvania.

They discovered that LOW levels of various lipids and plasmalogens are linked to a HIGHER RISK of Alzheimer’s.

Both studies seem to indicate that when the human body does not produce certain lipids, it will also impact what is going on in the brain.

2. Can Gut Bacteria Help in Dementia Diagnosis and Treatment

Researchers in Japan conducted a study to determine whether, in the future, gut bacterial may help in diagnosing dementia and perhaps even treatment.

The team of scientists was led by Dr. Naoki Saji from National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology in Japan. The researchers recruited 128 participants from a memory clinic.

All the participants underwent cognitive ability assessment and the professionals also used MRI to scan their brains. Some people had dementia while others did not.

To look for differences between the two groups, the scientists analyzed stool samples. The researchers found several differences.

For example, feces collected from people with dementia recorded higher levels of phenol, ammonia, skatole, and indole. The group also had major changes in the levels of some gut bacteria.

Even though this was a small study, the authors concluded that gut microbiota is a strong and independent dementia risk factor.

More research needs to be conducted on this angle to determine the link between gut health and dementia.

Foods that can Help Improve Gut Health and Dementia

Maintaining gut health may be instrumental in preserving brain health.

Certain food groups are beneficial for the gut-brain axis and some of them include:

Fermented Foods

Cheese, yogurt, sauerkraut, and kefir contain HEALTHY microbes that can alter brain activity.

Omega-3 fats

Studies in animals and humans show that omega-3s that are mostly found in oily fish increase good bacteria in the gut and can reduce the risk of brain disorders.

Polyphenol-Rich Foods

Green tea, cocoa, coffee, and olive oil are some of the foods that have high levels of polyphenols.

These are plant chemicals that increase healthy gut bacteria and can also enhance cognition.

Foods Rich in Fibre

Examples of these include nuts, whole grains, fruits, seeds, and vegetables that contain prebiotic fibres good for gut bacteria.

Prebiotics are also known to reduce stress hormones.

Implications of the Studies

While the research looking into the relationship between gut health and dementia is still in its early stages, it may be a game-changer when it comes to developing better diagnostic tests for dementia in the future.

It may also offer professionals a better perspective on why some people will experience fast progression over a year while others will go through a slow progression over 15 years.

Additionally, people are advised to take care of their gut health. This will not only make them feel better but can also avoid different types of dementia and neurodegenerative diseases according to Dr. Floyd Minana D.C.

Shortness of Breath and Dementia

Petra Boh Blog, Signs May 17, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, shortness of breath

After experiencing shortness of breath and dementia first hand, in family, I wanted to study it further.

I knew many face it, too, and a thorough overview is necessary.

Also known as dyspnea or “air hunger,” shortness of breath is one of the most common symptoms that persons with dementia experience.

Many people will experience shortness of breath as they GET CLOSER to their demise.

Below, I will uncover more details about the signs, causes, and how to treat dyspnea.

Signs of Dyspnea

Several signs may indicate that a person is suffering from shortness of breath. Some of them include:

Feeling suffocated or smothered because of breathing difficulties
Labored breathing
Rapid shallow breathing
Coughing
Tightness in the chest
Wheezing
Heart palpitations

What Causes Shortness of Breath?

People experience dyspnea for a variety of reasons.

An individual can feel short of breath when traveling to a high altitude, after an intense workout program, or when going through major temperature changes.

In most cases, however, dyspnea is normally associated with health issues.

Here are SOME of the reasons a person may experience shortness of breath and dementia.

Immobility: Many people with dementia especially during the last stages do not move about a lot. Being immobile can make one experience dyspnea because any exertion may lead to breathlessness.
Existing medical issues: DR. Steven Wahls reports that heart failure, asthma, pneumonia, COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and interstitial lung disease are some of the most common causes of dyspnea.
Drug interaction: Some medications that people with dementia take may list shortness of breath as one of their side effects.
Allergic reactions
Anxiety
Exposure to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide
Inhaling something or chocking on an item that blocks the breathing passageways
Serious loss of blood that results in anaemia
Hiatal hernia
Obesity
Collapsed lung

When to See a Doctor

Shortness of breath, in some cases, can be a sign of a life-threatening illness.

If a person is experiencing the severe onset of dyspnea, nausea, chest pain, or loss of the ability to function because of shortness of breath it is advisable to seek emergency medical treatment.

Shortness of Breath and Dementia Diagnosis Process

A physician can diagnose shortness of breath by conducting a comprehensive physical examination. And taking into consideration a full description of a person’s experiences.

Affected individuals SHOULD EXPLAIN how and when they started to experience air hunger.

They should also talk about the frequency, severity, and how long the attacks last.

Doctors may use CT (computed tomography) images and chest X-rays on persons with shortness of breath and dementia to help with diagnosis.

An Electrocardiogram may be conducted to reveal if a person has any heart attack warning signs or is experiencing other electrical problems in the heart.

Some doctors may also conduct spirometry tests that measure airflow as well as a person’s lung capacity.

Other tests may also be done to determine the LEVEL of OXYGEN in an individual’s blood.

Treating Dyspnea

Dyspnea treatment mainly depends on what is causing the problem.

For instance, a person who is experiencing shortness of breath because of overexertion just needs to stop and relax to get their breath back.

Persons who have COPD or asthma can use inhaled rescue bronchodilator when necessary.

Supplemental oxygen may be needed in severe cases.

Health care workers can also assist people who have shortness of breath and dementia EASILY. Especially when they are also suffering from other chronic conditions.

Challenging Dementia Behaviors (Complete Guide)

Rok Krivec Blog, Signs May 15, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, dementia behaviors

As a caregiver, we need to be familiar with challenging dementia behaviors and how to approach them the right way.

People who have dementia will often start to exhibit some behaviors that people around them may not understand.

This typically happens as the disease progresses where, in most cases, the sickness brings out a DIFFERENT PERSONALITY from the one the person usually has.

For instance, a loved one with dementia may start to use vulgar language, always using some unutterable words in their sentences even though they have NEVER DONE so their entire life.

In some cases, a person who was once bubbly, fun, and outgoing may all of a sudden withdraw from their circles, wanting to spend more time by themselves.

About 30-90% of people who have dementia will suffer from multiple behavioral disorders.

When such CHANGES happen, it can be difficult for relatives, friends, and other people around the ill person to comprehend what is going on.

Below we will help you understand challenging dementia behaviors.

Examples of Challenging Dementia Behaviors

Other than swearing and changes in personalities, there are other challenging behaviors dementia patients may showcase like:

Hoarding
Repeating the same activity or question
Sleep disturbance and night-time waking
Apathy
Disrobing
Following a spouse or partner everywhere
Paranoia
Agitation or anger
Restlessness, fidgeting, wandering, and pacing up and down
Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
Inappropriate sexual behavior
Physical aggression, etc.

What Causes Challenging Behaviors?

It is important to note that dementia usually affects the human brain NEGATIVELY.

The brain, on the other hand, is one of the organs that control a person’s behavior.

This implies that the illness does not only affect memory and thinking but behaviors as well.

In essence, there are three types of factors that bring about baffling dementia behaviors.

Main factors for challenging behaviors

1. Physical causes – These can include illness or discomfort.
2. External/environmental causes – This can be anything from a different routine to an environment that overstimulates the person who has dementia.
3. Cognitive/psychological causes – These include factors like paranoia or confusion

Responding to Dementia Behaviors

There is no scientific way of dealing with some of the behaviors that people with dementia start to showcase along the way.

Most of the time, caregivers must TRY and FIGURE OUT what is causing a specific behavior to know to respond effectively or try and prevent the cause altogether.

For example, you may notice that certain things trigger these puzzling dementia behaviors. It may be the ill person only acts in a specific way at the same time of the day.

They may be doing this as a way of communicating their needs because most people with dementia usually develop communication problems.

You may also want to consider TOO MUCH noise or clutter as a trigger.

It is usually helpful to keep a diary for one or two weeks.

These can help you identify the triggers that will reduce or eliminate behavioral problems.

Experts also advise that caregivers should ensure that the suffering person under their care maintains a HEALTHY social life.

Persons with dementia should also continue to participate in the activities they enjoy or identify new ones that make them happy.

Additionally, gentle exercises might also help to reduce those behaviors that may seem out of character.

Additional Support

Other steps that a carer can take to assist include:

Offering reassurance
Conducting activities that promote self-confidence while giving pleasure such as dancing or listening to some good tunes
Massage
Ensuring the person with dementia stays in a calm and quiet environment
Pet-therapy

Caregivers need to REMAIN positive, patient, and calm when dealing with daunting dementia behaviors.

Never try to use force or argue with a person who is going through challenging behaviors because of the illness.

They also need to avoid lengthy explanations because it is usually hard to reason with a person who has dementia.

It is also advisable for caregivers to take short breaks when feeling overwhelmed by all the behavioral changes.

SEEKING help from others can also help pinpoint new solutions that will take care of the current problems.

When it is not possible to handle these behaviors alone, it may be time to see a physician.

The professionals might prescribe some medication that will help with behavioral issues.

Treating these problems is CRUCIAL because it helps to improve the quality of life of the carer and the person with the illness.

It may also help to prevent untimely institutionalization.

It is not unusual for a person to feel hurt or experience frustration when a loved one with dementia is going through perplexing dementia behaviors.

However, even when going through this wide range of emotions, it is vital always to remember that the changes in behaviors are a result of the sickness and it is not a PERSON’S CHOICE.

These can help you better cope with these feelings for the good of all parties.

How Does Dementia Affect Personal Hygiene

Petra Boh Blog, Signs April 20, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, hygiene

Personal care is something that many people with dementia struggle with as the illness progresses. Therefore it is important consider- How does dementia affect personal hygiene?

Dementia is a degenerative cognitive disease that affects many regions of the brain including the ones that impact motivation and memory.

For this reason, affected persons may find it hard to keep up with daily grooming and hygiene habits. They may (and very likely will) lose the will to take care of themselves or simply forget what needs to be done.

When this happens it does not mean that a person should cease practicing personal hygiene.

Depending on the abilities of the persons, they can get help from professional caregivers or relatives and friends to ensure they remain well-kept, clean, and healthy.

Is poor hygiene a sign of dementia?

Below we discuss valuable insights on some challenges that people with dementia may go through when it comes to personal hygiene and how to address the issues.

Taking a Bath

Showering is not all about smelling fresh and looking good. Taking a bath regularly can also help to prevent ill health such as skin complications and infections.

A person with the progressive illness may find it hard to complete a simple task like taking a bath every day.

It is one of the points that come up when talking about how dementia affects personal hygiene.

Some people may become disoriented in the shower or be scared of falling when getting in and out of the bath.

When a person cannot take a bath on their own, they may resist another individual washing them because they find it embarrassing and undignified.

Some of the ways to help a person complete a bath include:

Best bathing practices for persons with dementia

Setting reminders for showers or baths.
Ensuring the affected person washes their hands before handling food or eating and after they use the washroom.
Trying as much as possible to maintain old bath routines.
Breaking down the task into simpler steps like starting with gently wiping the face before moving to the rest of the body.
Ensuring a person is safe when taking a bath while giving them as much privacy as possible.
Installing bathroom aids like grab-rails or shower or bath chairs that enhance safety reducing the risk of slipping and falling in the bathroom.
Try alternatives like sponge baths if showering or bathing causes an individual distress.
Enhancing privacy by doing things such as closing curtains or pulling blinds. It might also be useful to cover any mirrors in the bathroom if the sick person can no longer recognize themselves.
Offering adequate lighting in the bathroom and making sure the room is inviting and warm.
Where possible, play soft music in the background and place scented candles in strategic locations to create a relaxing and calming atmosphere.
If a loved one cannot convince a person to take a bath, hiring a bath aide may be a helpful idea. The professionals get training on how to deal with people of all cognitive and physical abilities.

Dressing

People with dementia may also have a problem dressing. Some may wear the same clothes daily while others may mismatch their outfits.

It is also common for individuals with the illness to put on the wrong clothes for the current season. For instance, a person may insist on wearing summer clothes when it is freezing outside.

Changing clothes regularly is essential for personal freshness and hygiene.

At times, it may be hard to convince a person with dementia to change clothes as they should.

Carers may have to use tactful methods to get rid of the dirty clothes and replace them with clean fresh ones.

It may also help to complement a person when they put on new clothes as it may motivate them to do so often.

Hair Care

Neglecting hair is another answer to the query of how dementia affects personal hygiene.

This can include not combing or styling the hair or not washing the hair at all. It may be because a person forgets they need to handle this task or lose the ability to manipulate items like a comb or hair straightener.

To help with this issue, caregivers can volunteer to handle hair care.

Booking salon appointments can also be a solution especially if the individual used to frequent the establishments before dementia became worse.

Teeth and Mouth Care

People with dementia may forget to brush and floss their teeth. Lack of dental care may lead to extremely dirty teeth and offensive breath. Even gum disease.

Remind the individual to brush their teeth and assist them by putting toothpaste on their brushes and ensuring they have easy access to rinsing water.

Purchasing an electric toothbrush can help make the task simpler. It is also advisable to schedule regular dentist visits.

The professional will check on dentures, gums, and teeth to ensure they are healthy.

Toileting

People with dementia may find it challenging to use the toilet without some type of assistance. Caregivers should ensure that a person’s underwear is dry, clean, and changed as often as needed.

Their genitals should also stay clean at all times.

If an individual is experiencing incontinence problems, they should be washed carefully with warm water and dried well before changing their clothes and using incontinence products.

Shaving

People with dementia may forget to shave frequently. Others may not be in a position to complete the task because they can end up cutting themselves during the process of shaving.

If a person can shave without any problem, it may be helpful to switch to an electric razor. This is considered easier and safer to use.

Nail Care

Finger and toenails may become too long and dirty without the necessary care. It is important to properly look after the nails because they can cause pain and also breed infections.

If a caregiver is not around to help with nail clipping and cleaning, it may be advisable to enlist the help of a podiatrist who will offer the much-needed services.

Cleaning Ears

When looking into the ways of how dementia affects personal hygiene, a point that comes up is the lack of cleaning ears.

This can be dangerous because it can result in a build-up of wax that can cause unnecessary hearing impairments.

Carers may have to consult a doctor to learn the best ways to deal with ear wax.

Closing Thoughts

Discussed above are some of the ways describing how dementia affects personal hygiene.

It is, therefore, important for loved ones to ensure that persons with the illness take great care of themselves by offering a hand or investing in professional help based on the individual’s changing needs.

Keep in mind that even though an individual may need help with matters of personal hygiene, they may not readily accept the assistance offered.

For this reason, carers must commit to offering the proper degree of assistance while respecting the need for independence and privacy.

Remember that a great deal of patience and reassurance is needed when dealing with persons who have dementia and are struggling with personal hygiene.

What Helps With Dementia Mood Swings?

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention, Signs April 9, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, mood swings

Since rapid mood swings are common symptoms of dementia, this guide will help you understand what helps with dementia mood swings and how to handle them.

Many persons with the progressive illness at some point will become moody, switching between various emotions fast for no reason.

On the other hand, some people with dementia will show less emotion than they used to in the past.

Handling Dementia Mood Swings

When it comes to expressing emotions, dementia may lower an individual’s inhibitions which can result in an increase in angry outbursts or crying.

Mood swings can start happening even in the early stages of the disease.

Some people with the illness will have mood swings because they are having trouble coping with losing their abilities as they try to understand their new terrifying and bewildering world.

Mood swings may also be happening because of the physical changes that are happening in the brain.

Sometimes, mood swings can be a result of pain, hunger, boredom, or feeling too hot or too cold.

Other possible causes of mood swings include:

Diet
Untreated psychiatric disorders
Caffeine
Clutter
Feeling rushed
Overstimulation
Too much noise

Coping with Mood Swings

Coping with mood swings can be hard for the person experiencing them as well as those around them.

Below are some of the tips that caregivers can use to help a person with the illness.

Trying to Understand the Affected Individual

One of the things to do when wondering what helps with dementia mood swings is to accept that the changes are caused by the illness and the affected person is not acting out on purpose.

It is important to identify a person’s likes and dislikes because this can help reduce the severity of the mood swings as well as their frequency.

Additionally, it may also help to know what makes the affected person feel relaxed, their favorite music, activities they like to participate in, things that upset them, or the times when the person mostly acts out.

Gathering this type of information allows caregivers to predict when the problems with mood swings may occur to prevent them or know what to soothe them.

Other coping mechanisms that can work include:

Consulting a Doctor

The professional will assess the person with dementia to find out if they have depression or any other psychiatric issues.

The physicians can also prescribe medication in case the mood swings seem excessive or dangerous.

These can include anti-anxiety drugs, antidepressants, and antipsychotics that can make the mood swings more manageable.

Creating a Calm Environment

Minimizing noise and distractions is another option available for people who are looking for what helps with dementia mood swings.

When a person has dementia loud noises including background noises from a TV or radio might be too much to handle.

An open space or glaring light may make an individual feel insecure or unsafe. Creating a peaceful environment might help to lessen mood swings that are primarily caused by overstimulation.

Putting on relaxing music or even building a sound machine can help promote a restful mood.

Ensure that the lighting around the living areas is soft and pleasant.

Assessing Physical Needs and Comfort

If a person who has dementia is uncomfortable and they cannot express it, it can trigger mood swings.

It is, therefore, important to ensure the individual is not too cold or hot by adjusting clothing and room temperatures as deemed necessary.

Check to see that the person is not hurt, hungry, thirsty, and is sleeping well.

Keeping track of the number of trips to the bathroom might also help in case a person wants to go and they do not even realize it.

Re-Direct Attention

If an individual becomes anxious and irritable, try and change the subject by gently introducing happy memories, asking about a loved one they are fond of, or playing an interesting song or home video.

Redirection can prove to be very helpful when it comes to ending an outburst.

It is, therefore, vital to have the tools and ideas ready so that they can be easily accessed when needed.

Practice Patience

Lots of patience is needed when exploring options carers need in regards to what helps with dementia mood swings.

Dementia may make a person argumentative and angry. At this point, avoid being confrontational, but try and acknowledge their frustrations.

Avoid correcting a person even when they are wrong.

Caregivers are supposed to support and recognize the emotions and the realities of the suffering person regardless of how “unrealistic” they may be.

Get Support

Taking care of a person who has dementia and is experiencing mood swings can be quite challenging and draining.

Caregivers need to take breaks and get all the support they need so that they can be energized to properly look after their loved ones.

There are plenty of local support groups one can join to interact with other people who are in similar situations.

Support groups are a great place to discuss what works when it comes to what helps with dementia mood swings.

Pneumonia and Dementia: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Rok Krivec Blog, Prevention, Signs April 6, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, pneumonia, pneumonia and dementia

There is a close correlation between pneumonia and dementia, which we need to be aware of to take action accordingly.

Persons with dementia are prone to different types of infections one of the most frequent being pneumonia.

This is a serious respiratory infection that is common in seniors with or without dementia.

Types of Pneumonia

There are three types of pneumonia.

Bacterial Pneumonia

This is the most severe form of pneumonia that needs a person to take antibiotics for treatment.

Elderly people living in care homes or hospitals are at a greater risk of catching bacterial pneumonia.

Unfortunately, hospital-acquired pneumonia tends to be more resistant to treatment.

The primary reason why it is common for seniors to get pneumonia while in the hospital is because they spend a lot of time in bed.

Vital Pneumonia

This is typically caused by the viruses responsible for flu and colds and tends to be prevalent during cold weather.

It is mainly responsible for mild pneumonia that children get.

Aspiration Pneumonia

This is another type of pneumonia that is common in older people with dementia. This develops when liquid or food goes down the windpipe instead of the food pipe.

It is the case because some people with dementia usually have trouble swallowing which increases their chances of breathing foods and drinks.

Sadly, this is also among the leading causes of death among golden-agers with dementia.

Knowing the different types of pneumonia let’s explore other aspects of pneumonia and dementia below.

Causes of Pneumonia in Persons with Dementia

Pneumonia will mostly attack people who have dementia because of a compromised immune system.

The progressive disease weakens the immune system which paves the ways for the development of other medical conditions.

Symptoms of Dementia

When talking about pneumonia and dementia, it is important to know how to spot the disease. Signs that might indicate a person has pneumonia include:

A cough that has brownish, green, or yellow phlegm. Sometimes this may even have bloodstains
Rapid heartbeat
Difficulty breathing
Shivering, sweating, and generally feeling ill
Fever
Fatigue
Wheezing while breathing

Rib and chest pain

Pneumonia in the elderly can be painful. Chronic coughing can lead to rib pain.

After heavy coughing, a senior might fracture their ribs or in some rare circumstances cause spinal issues like vertebra alignment problems or slipped disk.

Increased confusion

With older people, pneumonia can be the cause of disorientation and confusion. Some people may complain about having challenges thinking or have a hard time explaining things that would have been easier.

This can be made worse by the fact that they are already suffering from memory loss because of dementia.

If you spot any of the above, it is important to see a GP immediately. It may be hard to ascertain for a fact that your loved one has the infection.

A professional doctor will use a stethoscope to check for any rattling or crackling sounds in the chest.

The medic can also arrange for several tests including sputum, blood, and x-rays to identify the virus or bacteria that is causing the infection.

When pneumonia is caught early and proper treatment administered it can clear from a person’s system within 7-10 days.

People, however, feel tired and weaker for longer.

Treatment

In the case of viral pneumonia, a person may need to take antiviral drugs. This is, however, not common because bouts of viral pneumonia may heal without the use of medication.

Taking fluids in plenty, eating healthy and resting can see a person heal after some time.

Most doctors will recommend antibiotics and plenty of rest to treat bacterial pneumonia. Studies show that persons who are take antibiotics get at least six more months to live.

There is, however, still a huge debate as to whether the antibiotics work as they should in regards to pneumonia and dementia.

This is because about 40% of seniors who die from dementia are usually found to be taking antibiotics a short while before they pass one.

Research suggests that caregivers should determine the goal of care before they go ahead and administer the antibiotics.

Antibiotics may sometimes cause inconvenience

Studies reveal that while antibiotics may give an individual more time to live, they can also be the case of a decrease in comfort rates.

Antibiotics may cause adverse side effects like severe digestive upset and multiple allergic reactions.

This means that if the goal is to offer as much comfort as possible, antibiotics can be out of the question.

Aggressive administration of antibiotics should only happen when the goal is to help the individual live longer.

This is one of the reasons persons with dementia need to have advance medical directives. They need to be asked what treatment techniques they prefer later on in the disease before severe mental and physical decline.

This way, anyone taking care of the person will execute the wishes of the ill person correctly. These wishes can be highlighted in a living will.

The individuals also have the option of appointing one of their friends or family members to serve as the power of attorney for their healthcare decisions.

These are crucial documents that guarantee protection to the affected person when they can no longer make “sane” decisions.

How Antibiotics are Administered

If the doctor agrees to antibiotics treatment for pneumonia and dementia the drugs can be administered in two major ways.

1. Pills to swallow
2. Injections

The strongest antibiotic types are given by an IV (intravenous) infusion or injection. This sends the medicine to the veins directly through a tube or needle.

Anyone subject to IV antibiotics may require frequent hospitalization and blood tests.

As an alternative, the person taking the drugs can work with a nurse at home who will be administering the antibiotics when necessary.

In some cases, restraining the person taking the medicine may be inevitable.

This is because dementia in the middle and later stages can make an individual confused; thus, may not understand why they need the IV and want to get rid of it.

Ways to Prevent Pneumonia

Seeing that pneumonia can cause tragedies, it is better to focus on preventive measures. This will help older people with pneumonia and dementia to prevent loads of suffering.

Some of the ways to prevent pneumonia are:

Vaccines

Some vaccines can prevent some types of pneumonia from attacking people with dementia. The pneumococcal vaccine is the most common which helps to prevent over 20 bacterial pneumonia strains.

Experts reckon that the vaccine is only effective for a short period when given to older persons.

Doctors recommend that a person gets their first dose after they turn 50 and the other one at 65. They should then get new doses after 5 years.

This said, it is important to mention that the vaccine does not always engender excellent immune response in grown-ups; thus, it will not always work well.

An influenza vaccine can also help adults get milder flu attacks.

Get the person to move about

This is especially important if one is in the hospital and spends most of their time lying in bed.

Moving around and exercising as much as possible can help reduce the risk of getting the infection.

If the affected person is not fit to do a lot of walking simply sitting upright on a chair can do a lot of good.

This will help the lungs expand so that it is easier to clear the lungs and cough.

Quit smoking

Smoking causes damages to the lungs; hence, it makes pneumonia more likely.

Persons with dementia should stay away from smoking because it also decreases the body’s ability to fight the infection.

Limit alcohol

Alcohol misuse is one of the factors that increase the risk of not only developing pneumonia but also making it more severe.

It has been known to make swallowing challenging which can lead to aspiration pneumonia. If a person does not want to quit drinking, let them limit it to a pint or glass of wine.

Good hygiene

This can also help keep pneumonia at bay since the infection also spreads by inhalation and contact. It is advisable for people to frequently wash their hands or use sanitizer.

Dispose of used tissues immediately is also highly recommended. Individuals with pneumonia should also use a handkerchief while coughing to avoid spreading germs.

Healthy diet

While eating right will not cure pneumonia studies show that individuals who eat a diet rich in vegetables and fruits are less likely to develop respiratory infections.

Dark leafy greens, berries, tomatoes and citrus fruits are examples of food rich in antioxidants that can help the body recover from infections quicker.

Ensuring a person is awake and upright while eating

This will majorly prevent aspiration dementia. When a person concentrates on eating and drinking, it will reduce the chances of the food going down the wrong pipe.

At some point changing the texture of food by pureeing or mincing may be necessary. Thickening fluids can also make them easier to safely swallow.

Pneumonia and Dementia Final Thoughts

A huge percentage of people with dementia end up dying when they develop pneumonia.

It is vital to pay close attention to pneumonia and dementia in a bid to maximize life quality and expectancy.

Is Tripping a Sign of Dementia?

Petra Boh Blog, Signs April 5, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, tripping

It is common for people to ask, “is tripping a sign of dementia,” when looking after seniors or other individuals who are susceptible to developing the progressive illness.

While “healthy” individuals may trip now and then, a person with dementia may start to trip over their feet constantly which can lead to serious falls.

Research indicates that falling frequently could be one of the early warning signs for Alzheimer’s disease one of the most common causes of dementia.

The Risk of Falls Affects People with Dementia

A 2011 study in Age and Aging reported that hip fractures and the risk of falls affect people with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) three times more than people without the illness.

Another study published in the journal Neurology in 2013, concluded that presumptive preclinical Alzheimer’s disease is a risk factor for falls in the elderly.

The study revealed that persons with AD dementia have an increased risk of falls. The study primarily observed the rate of falls of community-dwelling cognitively normal seniors.

Some of the participants of the study had preclinical AD that was detected through imaging biomarkers and CSF.

After 12 months, the researchers found out that older adults who had preclinical AD had more cumulative fall incidences when compared to the older adults who did not have preclinical Alzheimer’s.

Losing balance while walking or standing in the early stages or even before other dementia symptoms show up may be an indication of an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

It may also be a sign that a person is suffering from a different type of dementia other than Alzheimer’s like vascular dementia.

The cerebellum is the part of the brain that controls body movement.

Illnesses that affect the cerebellum end up affecting an individual’s balance. Several types of dementia fit this bill.

An example is a vascular dementia that is caused by a lack of blood flow to the cerebellum.

What Causes People with Dementia to Trip and Fall?

Several factors have been associated with the risk of tripping and falling among persons with dementia and some of them include:

Poor Balance, Physical Weakness, and Changes in Gait

Some people will start developing mobility issues as soon as memory problems begin while others will remain in great physical shape during the early stages of the diseases.

As the illness progresses it causes a decline in strength, balance, and walking which might cause an individual to trip and fall frequently.

Side Effects from Medication

When asking if tripping is a sign of dementia it is critical to want to know what is causing the behavior.

Some drugs a person is taking can increase their risk of tripping.

An example is antipsychotic medications which can have an orthostatic hypotension side effect. This is where an individual experiences a sudden drop in blood pressure after standing up too quickly.

Other medications like the ones that facilitate sleep (hypnotics) can cause lingering drowsiness which can increase the chances of tripping.

Drugs that people take for blood pressure can cause light-headedness or dizziness which can lead to an increased risk of tripping.

Memory Impairment

It can be difficult to prevent a person who has dementia from tripping as the disease continues to progress.

One of the reasons for this is the cognitive decline that is associated with the illness.

For instance, a loved one might tell the person with dementia not to walk about without assistance but they forget and continually want to walk independently even when it is not safe.

Lack of Physical Exercise

A person with dementia may start to trip many times because they are not getting enough exercise.

Exercising can help improve balance by strengthening muscles in various body parts including the spine, legs, torso, and hip enabling a more upright and erect posture.

Maintaining an upright posture implies that an individual will be less likely to overcompensate for imbalances that occur when walking, bending, reaching, and turning.

Visual-Spatial Problems

Dementia is known to affect a person’s visuospatial abilities.

This means that an individual can misinterpret what they see or misjudge uneven terrains, steps, changes in floor color, and shiny spots on the floor.

Fatigue

Some people may end up tripping a lot in the evenings because they are simply too tired from the activities of the day; hence, cannot move about well.

Poor Judgement

At times, tripping may occur as a result of poor-decision skills which are common with persons who have dementia.

This can be anything from walking outside in the middle of winter on ice or walking down the steps without assistance.

Clutter

The home condition of a person with dementia might also increase their risk of tripping. For example, if there is too much clutter, it may be hard for them to navigate around without tripping on something.

Some people with dementia get into the habit of hoarding stuff which can put them at risk of tripping.

Tips for Preventing Falls for People with Dementia

When people with dementia trip and fall, they can end up fracturing their hips which can lead to immobility and surgery.

Death rates following hip fractures are also on the increase.

Thus, it is important to minimize the risk of falls among persons with dementia. Especially now, when we know that tripping can be a sign of dementia.

Some of the steps that can be taken towards this include:

Try and Understand why a Person Falls

Knowing what makes a person with dementia trip and fall can help anticipate their needs which will, in turn, decrease the falls.

For instance, the person with the illness may be restless because their body needs to be exercised and stretched out.

The individual may also be tired of sitting in one position for a long period; thus, want to get up and start moving around even when it is not safe.

To prevent tripping and falling from happening, it is important to ensure a person gets enough exercise and their positions are changed frequently enough so that they are always comfortable.

Pain, discomfort, thirst, hunger, boredom, and a need to use the bathroom may be other factors that cause a person to want to move around unsafely.

This is especially when the individual with dementia cannot communicate their needs well.

If a person is constantly tripping, check some of these factors and ensure their needs are well taken care of to prevent the risk of falls.

Make the Home Safer

To prevent tripping, the house where the individual with dementia lives can be made safer for navigation. We also have an entire guide on how to make a dementia-friendly home.

This can be done in a few steps such as:

Putting away obstacles on the floor like clothes or shoes that a person can trip over
Installing grab bars in bathroom by the tub or shower,and toilet
Ensuring a person has the items they need within reach so that they do not have to strain to get them
Ensuring the entire house is well lit at all times so that the affected person can see things clearly
Installing handrails on staircases
Avoiding shoes or slippers with deep treads. Where possible, it is best to invest in footwear that has thin non-slip soles

Getting rid of clutter outside can also be useful.

The area outside the house should be clear of objects like stones, rocks, and leaves, etc. The uneven ground on an elderly’s path and dips in walkways should also be avoided.

Use of Mobility Aids

Persons with dementia may find mobility aids like walkers and canes quite useful because they can use them to comfortably walk and stand.

It is best to consult a physical therapist or doctor before purchasing a mobility aid because some may increase the risk of tripping depending on the person who is using them.

An individual’s grip strength, gait, and balancing ability are some of the factors that are put into consideration before choosing the mobility aid to purchase.

After getting a walker a crane, it is best to monitor how the person is using them to make sure they are using it properly.

Lowering Noise Levels

Persons who have dementia may be sensitive to loud noises. It is therefore important to reduce loud sounds and white noise around them.

When the noise levels become unbearable to the affected individuals, it can cause anxiety and nervousness which can make the person unsteady on their feet.

Keep Help Close by

It is important for a person who is at risk of tripping to easily and fast call for help when need be.

An individual can invest in remote care technology to help with this.

It can be anything from an auto detector or fall alert bracelet that they can use in the event of an emergency.

Offer Visual Contrast

Using contrast in color is important to help define objects from the background. It is best to use solid colors that do not have any patterns to decrease confusion.

Avoid using black surfaces because they can be misconstrued for a black hole.

For instance, a person can place contrasting colored decals or rubber mats at the bottom of the tab.

If there are light-colored walls, darker handrails can be installed.

Do Dementia Patients Know What They Are Saying?

Petra Boh Blog, Signs April 1, 2021October 15, 2021dementia and communication

Communicating with a person who has dementia may be confusing and challenging at times leading to the question: do dementia patients know what they are saying?

Most of the time especially in the later stages of the disease, they may not know what they are saying.

This is because communication becomes more difficult for persons with dementia as the illness progresses.

After all, it affects sections of the brain that are responsible for controlling memory and language.

As dementia continues to destroy brain cells, most people experience a symptom referred to as aphasia.

This can be described as losing the ability to speak as well as understand speech.

Several factors may affect an individual’s ability to communicate “normally” such as:

Memory Loss: inability to remember events that have happened or topics to discuss
Challenges finding the right words or phrases to say
Difficulties understanding language
Sight or hearing impairment
Distractions; for instance, being distracted by the environment or finding it hard to concentrate on a single topic
Hallucinations

Coping with Communication Challenges

In regards to the query do patients with dementia know what they are saying, it is important to learn some communication strategies to adapt when communicating with individuals who seem not to know what they are saying.

This is because persons with dementia are bound to have communication hiccups which can lead to multiple misunderstandings.

For instance, a person can point to a computer and call it a picture or say that they want to eat worms referring to their favorite food only that they cannot voice out the proper words.

Some of the ways to deal with communication issues include:

Speaking the First Language

Many people with dementia usually go back to their first language as they lose their ability of speech.

If a person grew up speaking a certain language, get ready to speak the language at some point.

Minimize Distractions

When talking to a person with the progressive illness, try and create a calm and quiet environment.

It is best to sit face-to-face with the person you are talking to.

Minimize distractions like noise from the TV or radio or any sights that may be causing distractions.

Sing Along

Most individuals with dementia will remember songs because melodies and music are stored in the parts of the brain that the disease does not affect.

Singing, thus, is one of the ways to connect with the affected individuals. An alternative to singing is just relaxing and listening to the person’s favorite tunes.

The Right Approach

People with dementia generally do not like surprises. If they do not see other people coming, it might elicit aggression or anxiety.

It is, therefore, advisable to always approach them from the front which gives the affected person time to process an individual’s arrival.

It is also recommended that a person identifies themselves before engaging in conversation.

This is done to create awareness and attention reminding the affected person of who their loved ones are.

Have a Caring Attitude

when seeking answers to the query do patients with dementia know what they are saying it is vital to understand that individuals retain their emotions and feelings even when they do not understand what is being said.

For this reason, it is crucial to always maintain the self-esteem and dignity of persons with dementia when talking to them.

Allow plenty of time for responses and remain flexible. Avoid arguing or becoming controlling even when the person with the illness is in the wrong.

Communicating without Words

At times, words are not sufficient when communicating with a person who has dementia.

Body language, touch, hand gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions are other communication options available when words are not enough.

For instance, when asking a person what they want to eat, pointing to the refrigerator can help reinforce the message.

Nodding the head indicates a person agrees while shaking the head shows an individual is not in agreement.

A hug or warm smile can also convey the message you want to pass across strongly.

Remember to only use touch when it is appropriate to grab the person’s attention while communicating affection and warmth.

Understanding the Disease Makes People Say Harmful Things

It is common for persons with the disease to use hurtful words, make mean comments, or accuse their loved ones of terrible untrue things.

While it may be devastating to hear such things, it is important to remember that the affected individual is not saying these bad things on purpose but it is the disease that is causing them to say such things.

Closing Remarks

When a person with dementia loses their ability to communicate it can be hard and frustrating not only to the affected individual but their families, friends, and carers as well.

When this happens, it is important for loved ones are carers to change the way they communicate with the affected person.

Keep in mind that communication is made up of three parts:

1. 55% Body Language: This is the message that people send with their gestures, facial expression, and posture.
2. 38%: It represents the pitch and tone of the voice.
3. 7%: these are the words people use.

The statistics above show the importance of how carers and families should present themselves with people who have dementia.

It is easy for people with dementia to pick up negative body language like raised eyebrows and sighs.

Is Lack of Concentration A Sign of Dementia?

Petra Boh Blog, Signs March 28, 2021October 16, 2021concentration, dementia

If you suspect that a loved one has dementia, it is normal to ask several questions including is lack of concentration a sign of dementia?

According to Healthline, when a person cannot concentrate, it means that they cannot focus on a task, think clearly, or even maintain attention.

This normally affects a person’s performance at school or work.

Inability to concentrate can be caused by a variety of reasons including but not limited to:

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)
Concussions or head injuries
Alcohol use disorder
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Restless leg syndrome
Boredom
Insomnia
Cushing syndrome
Mental disorders like schizophrenia
Depressive disorder
Side effects from medication
Epilepsy
Stress
Dementia
Hunger

How to Tell a Person has been affected by Lack of Concentration

Not being able to concentrate affects individuals differently.

Some of the common signs a person may showcase include:

Having a hard time sitting still
Inability to remember something that has occurred a few moments ago
Lacking the mental or physical energy to concentrate
Losing things frequently
Lack of focus
Making careless mistakes
Inability to perform complicated tasks
Inability to make decisions

People with dementia may also struggle with a lack of concentration making it one of the warning signs of the progressive illness.

It mostly happens in the early stages of the illness through to the mild and moderate stages.

As the disease progresses, the attention a person gives to a conversation, topic, or goal-oriented task like counting money correctly or cleaning the kitchen decreases.

Initially, individuals with dementia may appear to be distracted when doing tasks they once handled with ease.

This can be anything from planning a family trip or completing their favorite puzzle.

As the disease continues to progress, affected individuals may find it challenging to complete simple day-to-day tasks like making breakfast or even dressing up properly.

When a person has difficulties concentrating, they can end up taking more time to complete normal activities.

Care Giving Tips for Concentration

To date, scientists have not yet discovered a cure for dementia.

However, it is possible to deal with some of the symptoms that people with dementia showcase to help them lead more quality lives. Homewatch CareGivers recommend a variety of cognitive exercises that can help individuals with their ability to concentrate.

This is helpful for everyone who is asking if lack of concentration a sign of dementia? Some of the exercises that can improve the concentration levels of a person who has dementia include:

Creating a Set of Opposite Cards

Carers can help persons with dementia by creating cards with images of opposites. For instance, one card can have an image of ice while the other can have one of fire.

Another set can have salt and sugar and so forth. Shuffle the cards and lay the images on a table ensuring that the person can see the opposites.

The individual with dementia should be asked to try and match the images with their opposites.

Caregivers can also create a set of shapes and heart cards. Set the cards on the table and let the individual with dementia study the location of the cards.

Turn them upside down and ask the person to find matches based on their memory of the location of the cards.

While engaging in these activities, caregivers need to monitor the amount of time their loved ones spend on the activities before something else distracts them.

The primary aim of the exercises is to improve if not maintain the concentration times. At times, caregivers may be forced to redirect the person with dementia to help them focus on a single task.

Remember to use persuasive language and a calm tone so that they do not feel like they are being pressurized to do something.

Caregivers can offer to explain the activity again for clarification or restate the previous directions.

How Doctors Diagnose Lack of Concentration

If a person is not too sure they are experiencing a lack of concentration a visit to the doctor can help with the diagnosis.

The professional can carry out a range of tests to find out if a person is indeed suffering from a lack of concentration and whether dementia is behind this.

Some of the tests physicians conduct include:

Blood tests
CT scans
EEG (electroencephalography): this measures the scalp’s electrical activity

Doctors normally start by gathering information about a person’s health history while discussing how they are feeling.

The physician may ask a couple of questions such as when the individual first noticed the changes in concentration levels and whether the concentration is becoming better or worse.

Doctors may also review any supplements, medications, and herbs that a person may be taking to determine if they are negatively affecting concentration.

If there are some drugs causing a lack of concentration the doctor may change them.

Keep in mind that diagnosing the inability to concentrate may require more evaluation and time.