caring for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients
The term “dementia” refers to a disease that affects the brain’s ability to function correctly. The more advanced the disease is, the more difficult it is for people to carry out everyday tasks. For older individuals, it can be difficult to tell whether common symptoms are simply normal signs of aging or they point to dementia, especially in the beginning.
There are different forms of dementia; a person can have more than one form. Certain physical changes in the brain are associated with each of these forms. “Alzheimer’s” is by far the most common kind of dementia. It is a progressive disease, and although remedies exist that may slow its development, there is no cure at this time. According to statistics for 2020, about 150,000 Virginians have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s dementia.
People who have dementia often experience difficulties remembering things and solving problems. Another common sign is a change in moods and interests; for instance, they may become depressed or stop paying attention to things they were once enthusiastic about. Sometimes the disease causes personality changes. Dementia can also affect physical balance and the ability to walk or move the body naturally.
The Alzheimer’s Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people navigate the challenges of living with dementia. Their website offers many resources and lots of helpful information. A local support group for caregivers who are supporting people with dementia meets monthly at Kendal in Lexington.
People whose disease is in its early stages can continue to live their lives normally with just a few adjustments. This is the ideal time to think about options for future care and priorities. VPAS – the Valley Program for Aging Services is a great resource. The Rockbridge County office is in Buena Vista.
There are many creative activities that that enhance the lives of people with memory loss through art, dance, and music. In particular, singing and music have been found to promote brain health… and bring joy to all involved. RAH’s Music and Memory program was created so that patients could continue to connect with the music they know and love. The trailer for the film Young @ Heart is a testimony to the power of music for people of all ages and capacities.
Whether you yourself or someone you love is dealing with dementia, your Connections + care coordinator can help you find the resources and programs that will support you during this phase of your lives.
There are different forms of dementia; a person can have more than one form. Certain physical changes in the brain are associated with each of these forms. “Alzheimer’s” is by far the most common kind of dementia. It is a progressive disease, and although remedies exist that may slow its development, there is no cure at this time. According to statistics for 2020, about 150,000 Virginians have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s dementia.
People who have dementia often experience difficulties remembering things and solving problems. Another common sign is a change in moods and interests; for instance, they may become depressed or stop paying attention to things they were once enthusiastic about. Sometimes the disease causes personality changes. Dementia can also affect physical balance and the ability to walk or move the body naturally.
The Alzheimer’s Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people navigate the challenges of living with dementia. Their website offers many resources and lots of helpful information. A local support group for caregivers who are supporting people with dementia meets monthly at Kendal in Lexington.
People whose disease is in its early stages can continue to live their lives normally with just a few adjustments. This is the ideal time to think about options for future care and priorities. VPAS – the Valley Program for Aging Services is a great resource. The Rockbridge County office is in Buena Vista.
There are many creative activities that that enhance the lives of people with memory loss through art, dance, and music. In particular, singing and music have been found to promote brain health… and bring joy to all involved. RAH’s Music and Memory program was created so that patients could continue to connect with the music they know and love. The trailer for the film Young @ Heart is a testimony to the power of music for people of all ages and capacities.
Whether you yourself or someone you love is dealing with dementia, your Connections + care coordinator can help you find the resources and programs that will support you during this phase of your lives.
