Alzheimer’s Association states that “Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life, while Alzheimer’s is a specific disease.”
Dementia
People with dementia have two or more of these symptoms:
Difficulty solving problems is an early stage of dementia.
Loss of coordination: their loss of coordination and balance occur when they are walking. Additionally standing is often affected, because motor control is a factor caused by dementia. They also may be prone to dizziness and feeling like they are moving when they are still.
Language problems: Individuals with dementia can develop aphasia, which is the loss of being able to speak and understand speech, because they have a decline in their mental ability.
Trouble interpreting: this includes their inability to come up with conclusions, judgements and other mental abilities.
Memory problems: they have trouble remembering where they have stored items, the names of people close to them and taking their medications.
Behavior changes that are unwanted can start to occur. This might not be easy to recognize in yourself but could be recognized in someone else.
Mood changes that are unwanted: this includes apathy, depression and anxiety.
One of the first signs of dementia is memory loss. This symptom is present in every stage of dementia and the beginning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s Association says that “Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases.”
There is not a cure for Alzheimer’s and it is not normal to develop Alzheimer’s. The largest risk factor to develop the disease is being over the age of 65. Genetics may be a risk factor, but a healthy lifestyle including a well-balanced diet and exercising can decrease the risk and reduce the genetics factor.
Moments Memory Care in the Quad Cities is an elderly care facility specializing in the care of individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s. The staff at Grand Haven offer a high level of care for those who require additional support and services.
