While dementia typically does not develop until a person is over the age of sixty-five, individuals can begin to experience symptoms earlier in life. If someone receives a diagnosis and treatment early, they may slow down the progression of the disease. Learning about the different types of dementia allows individuals to protect their brain function. With this guide, a person will learn the facts about dementia and how they should seek memory care for a loved one. 

What Are the Common Symptoms of Dementia?

Dementia causes both cognitive and psychological changes. The symptoms of dementia vary according to the type and may include some of the following. 

  • Memory loss that is often noticed by others first
  • Problems with communication or finding the right words
  • Getting lost while driving in familiar areas
  • Difficulties with reasoning and problem solving
  • Problems with planning and organization
  • Decreased coordination and motor function
  • Frequent confusion and disorientation
  • Changes in personality
  • Increased symptoms of depression and anxiety
  • Frequent agitation and paranoia

If a person is experiencing any of these symptoms, they need to talk to their doctor right away. Testing allows the doctor to determine what form of dementia the person has and the best treatment approach to use. With memory care solutions, such as assisted living or memory care communities, those with dementia will find the care they need so they can continue to live an independent life as much as possible. 

Types of Dementia

Multiple types of dementia fall under the same category. Some types of dementia are progressive. There are also other types of conditions related to dementia. The following offers information on each of the types. Many people are surprised to learn many of these types worsen when a person is in isolation

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. Although there is still so much unknown about why this disease develops, it is believed some people get the disease because of mutations in three genes, and these are passed down from a person’s parents. 

Vascular Dementia

When the vessels that supply the brain with blood are damaged, vascular dementia often develops. In addition to vascular dementia, a person may also experience strokes, which can further complicate the condition. 

Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy bodies are clumps of proteins that develop inside the brain. These clumps are similar to the proteins found in the brains of those with Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. 

Frontotemporal Dementia

This is a term for a group of diseases that affect the frontal portion of the brain. Damage occurs to the nerve cells in both the frontal and temporal lobes, causing a decrease in cognitive function. 

Mixed Dementia

Some people suffer from multiple types of dementia. Autopsies performed on those over the age of 80 frequently reveal multiple types of dementia present in the brain. 

What Are the Risk Factors for Developing Dementia?

Although age is undoubtedly a determining factor for the development of dementia, others may impact a person’s risk of developing dementia. The following are some of the risk factors a person may experience. 

  • Those with a family history of dementia are more likely to develop one of these diseases. 
  • People who have Down’s syndrome are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease by middle age. 
  • A lack of exercise will often put a person at risk of developing dementia. 
  • Excessive alcohol use also puts people at a greater risk of dementia. 
  • High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis all increase the risks of dementia. 
  • The development of late-life depression may also put a person at an increased risk of developing these diseases. 
  • Smoking may increase a person’s risk of developing vascular-related dementia. 
  • Severe head trauma also may lead to the eventual diagnosis of dementia. 

If a person has increased risk factors for developing dementia, reducing those factors as much as possible is crucial. Individuals need to have regular checkups with their doctor to ensure their cognitive function remains protected at all times. 

Learn About Care for Dementia Patients

A person who has dementia will continue to experience cognitive declines that could cause them to be unable to function in their day-to-day settings. For these people, there are care communities that help ensure residents continue to enjoy living as independently as possible while receiving the care they need. Within a community, dementia sufferers find their days are filled with exciting opportunities for activities and fun. Those suffering from these conditions should learn about their care options. 

At Orchard Park of Kyle, we provide an expansive senior living community that offers memory care services for residents who have all types of dementia. Our community is for those who need a little extra help to remain independent.