7 Things You Don’t Know About Dementia 

Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that causes the brain to shrink and the brain cells to die. There are many types of dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common.

Health professionals, students, family caregivers, friends and even affected individuals who are interested in learning about dementia and quality care, can benefit from completing an online nursing degree to acquire the foundational knowledge to best treat neurocognitive disorders.

There are some common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease but no one person’s experience is said to be the same as anyone else’s. However, if you want to know about this malady that is plaguing millions, it is important to know what the lesser known facts of dementia are. That might make all the difference!

1. Dementia affects women and the less privileged more

While generally dementia doesn’t discriminate, more women are diagnosed with dementia than men because they have longer life spans.

Those in the low-income category are also more likely to get dementia with the rate set to increase manifold in the next 30 years.

2. Dementia can affect anyone

While dementia affects the elderly more than any other demographic, it does not mean it can’t affect the younger population. In fact, dementia can affect anybody.

The reason is that dementia is not caused by any single disorder, but a combination of several. If a young person has diabetes or arteriosclerosis, there is every likelihood that they could be at a risk of dementia at a later stage.

3. Other symptoms of dementia

While Alzheimer’s and dementia are linked, food cravings, behavioral changes and impaired judgments or few signs outside the normal dementia symptoms could cause dementia.

Remember, dementia is not a disease by itself, but a result of the culmination of other diseases. Check with your doctor whether any disease you may have could lead to dementia.

4. Dementia is incurable

The common opinion of experts is that there is no cure for dementia, whether at an early stage or an advanced one. However, before dementia takes total control of the brain, identifying the symptoms can make it manageable.

Catching dementia in its early stages, lessens the progress of the disease and the early diagnosis can be of help in the long run.

5. Several causes are treatable

Dementia patients need not lose all hope because though you can’t cure dementia, there are treatments available for the several diseases that cause dementia.

This means you can treat diabetes, brain injury, hearing loss, substance abuse and poor diet to remain well on the way for dementia prevention.

6. Dementia does not affect lifestyle

Thankfully, it is possible to lead an active and fulfilling life even with dementia. As soon as you get diagnosed, find a facility that specializes in memory care.

This institution will ensure that you live in a safe and independent environment where you can maintain your strong sense of self.

7. Before you head to the doctor

If you think you have dementia ask those who you love and trust most instead of heading blindly to a physician, because those close to you see you more often than a doctor.

They will be able to tell better if your behavior is abnormal, a common symptom of dementia, and you know you have their trust.