DEMENTIA

What is dementia?

• Two thirds of people with dementia are never diagnosed, because their symptoms are often dismissed as an inevitable consequence of old age.

• In the next five years it is predicted that we will have found the key genes involved in Alzheimer’s. It is hoped that we will then be able to reduce the risk by combinations of treatment.

• Meanwhile, the main way to fight against the dying of the light is keep fit, adopt a low-fat diet and do a few crosswords (on the “use it or lose it” principle). “If we could delay onset by five years, we would halve the number of people with Alzheimer’s” says Andrew Kettering of the Alzheimer’s Society.

The term 'dementia' describes a group of symptoms caused by the impact of disease on the brain.  While each person is unique and will experience dementia in their own way, symptoms typically include problems with memory, speech and perception.

Short term memory is usually affected. This may mean, for example, that the person with dementia forgets the names of family or friends, or how to perform simple everyday tasks. They may, however, retain their long term memory, clearly remembering events from the past.

The person with dementia might have problems finding the right words, or may seem to have difficulties understanding what is being said to them. As verbal communication diminishes, they may retain the ability to communicate feelings, needs and preferences through facial expression and body language.

Perception is also usually affected, as the person with dementia tries to interpret and make sense of the world about them. This may make their behaviour and speech appear different to those of other people.

Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. During the course of the disease the chemistry of the brain changes and cells, nerves and transmitters are attacked. Eventually the brain shrinks as gaps develop. The disease typically begins with lapses in memory, mood swings, and in difficulty finding the right words. Later the person affected may become more confused and may find it difficult to understand what is being said.

People with dementia don't stop being people once they develop the condition.

Each of us is an individual with a life history, abilities, likes and dislikes. When a person develops dementia, it becomes particularly important to respect them as a person and support their sense of identity.

• Focus on the person's strengths and abilities. Suggest activities that they can still manage and enjoy.
   
• Dementia affects thinking and reasoning, but emotions and feelings are often unaffected. The person with dementia may feel sad or upset at times. It is important to acknowledge and respond to these feelings.
   
• Be aware that the person with dementia may not communicate verbally. They may show how they feel in the way they move their body, for example, or in their facial expressions.
   
• The person with dementia is an adult. Do not treat them as if they were a child.
   
• As a general rule, try to put yourself in the place of the person with dementia. How would you like to be treated?