Understanding Dementia
 | What is dementia ? |
| Who are affected ? |
| Types of dementia |
| What are the symptoms of dementia ? |
| What can be done ? |
Dementia
is an illness which affects the brain, causing the brain cells to die faster
rate than normal. It is NOT normal ageing. As a result, the
mental abilities
of the person with dementia declines. This leads to failing memory, deterioration
of intellectual function and personality changes.
It
affects mainly elderly people. In Singapore, about 5.2% of people over
the age of 65 suffer from dementia.
There are two main types of dementia : Alzheimer's disease and Multi-infarct dementia.
In Alzheimer's disease, the onset of symptoms and the progression of the illness is gradual. Although the cause is still unknown, present research suggests that there is a familial tendency and certain chemicals in the brain are lacking. As yet, there is no known medical cure for the disease.
Multi-infarct dementia results from a series of strokes in the brain.
What are the symptoms of dementia ?
Generally, there are three stages which mark the onset and progression of the disease.
Early stage : mild dementia
The individual appears forgetful or occasionally
repeats himself. Sometimes they behave oddly and become withdrawn, lethargic
or agitated. Planning of day-to-day activities becomes difficult.
Middle stage: moderate dementia
In this stage, the changes become more noticeable. The memory lapses are
more obvious. Behaviour becomes problematic and may interfere with normal
day-to-day activities. Some examples of behaviour which may be symptomatic
of moderate dementia are :
| wandering and getting lost |
| repeating words |
| neglecting personal hygiene |
| losing track of time and events |
| forgetting the names of common objects and familiar people |
| irritability and agitation |
Last stage: severe dementia
The individual is unable to recognise family members and will
need help in personal care such as bathing, going to the
bathroom, dressing and eating. Their speech may be difficult to
understand and they may not comprehend what is being said to
them.
Below is a checklist of symptoms:
*
problem with recent memory
*
misplacing things
*
difficulty performing familiar tasks
*
problems with language
*
disorientation of place and time
*
poor or decreased judgement
*
problems with abstract thinking
*
changes in mood or behaviour
*
changes in personality
*
loss of initiative
Please consult your family doctor for proper referrals.
If you have a relative with memory problems:
1. He/she should see the doctor for a proper assessment and diagnosis.
2. You will need help in understanding the illness. Your doctor can put you in touch with people who can help.
3. You will need support. Caring for people with dementia is difficult and can be exhausting both physically and emotionally. Learn to talk about your problems. Make sure that you get enough rest. Take care of your own physical and mental well-being.
4. Group support is important. Meet with others who are also caring for people with dementia. Sharing provides mutual support for carers. Click here for more information.
5. For other types of problem behaviour, specific advice may be needed.
Here are some ways of coping with forgetfulness:
1. Remind people with dementia constantly of reality around them, for example, the day, date, month, year, time of day, place and the names of people around them.
2. Keep to a regular routine.
3. Use memory aids like diaries, memo boards, signs, clocks, calendars, etc.
For more information, contact us at:
Alzheimer's Disease Association (Singapore)
Blk 157, Lorong 1 Toa Payoh
#01-1195
Singapore 310157
Tel : 6353 8734
Fax : 6353 8518
Email :
alzheimers.tp@pacific.net.sg