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Musings on Memory

Is it Dementia or Alzheimer's?

2/1/2016

 
When the brain doesn't function properly, it can be the result of injury, a genetic condition, interruption of oxygen to the brain, toxic chemicals in the environment, or a specific disease.

Dementia is the medical term for a group of symptoms. These symptoms are shared by many diseases in the same way a fever is a common symptom in numerous illnesses. Dementia refers to the loss or decline of intellectual ability that interferes with how a person functions. It's a category, not the name of a disease.

Dementia can include memory loss, confusion, and personality changes. The decline of brain function may produce loss of mental ability in vocabulary, mathematics, abstract thinking, judgment, speech, or physical coordination.

The symptoms of dementia are caused by diseases ranging from metabolic disorders, brain injury, infections, toxins, vascular (blood vessel) disease, and degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntington's.

It's important to consider all possible causes for dementia so the doctor makes the correct diagnosis and prescribes proper treatment. In some instances, dementia is treatable and can be stopped, delayed, or reversed. Sadly, this isn't true with Alzheimer's disease.

What Does Alzheimer's Look Like?

The classic signs of early Alzheimer's are:
1. A gradual loss of short-term memory
2. Problems with speech — inability to find or say the correct word.
3. Forget how to use a familiar object, like a phone or a pen.
4. Don't recognize objects have always known.
5. Forget to turn off the stove, or lock the doors — noticeable change in once common behaviors.
6. There may be a change in mood or personality, too. Poor judgment and agitation often occur.

Symptoms of Alzheimer's Appear Gradually

Woman trying to remember
The rate of progression and severity of behaviors will vary from person to person.

The problems begin with mental ability or complex tasks. Finances, driving, managing a household, working a job, or planning a meal become difficult.

Later, a person's language and motor skills become impaired. Activities of Daily Living (eating, bathing, dressing, toileting and walking) are troublesome for the patient.

These Signs Don't Always Indicate Alzheimer's

Anyone can forget or use poor judgment occasionally. When lapses are frequent and dangerous, you should consult a doctor immediately. It's best to find a physician who specializes in Alzheimer's, neurology, or gerontology because identification of early Alzheimer's is difficult.

A doctor may want to talk to family members and friends to gather information on their observations of the patient's behaviors. The first assessment should include a thorough physical exam, a functional status assessment, detailed medical history and a mental status exam.

If you see changed behaviors in someone you love, make notes so you can give the doctor accurate and complete information. Be kind, and stay focused on keeping your loved one safe, healthy and happy.


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    Copyright 2020 by
    Karen Favo Walsh.
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    Topics

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    Caregiver Guilt
    Daily Schedule
    Don't Do The Dishes
    Driving
    Hiding And Hoarding
    Is It Dementia Or Alzheimer's?
    Learn The Lingo
    Names Don't Matter
    Positive Ways To Deal With Long-term Illness
    Sandwich Generation
    The Persistence Of Memory
    Unexpected Role Of Caregiver
    World Alzheimer's Day


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This site is an extension of the book, Alzheimer's Stories. My goal is to offer relevant information to family caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease. This website doesn't pretend to be more than friendly advice. Please consult medical professionals when making decisions about your loved one's health. Please read our full disclaimer. Copyright 2000-2020 by Karen Favo Walsh. All Rights Reserved.