Dementia Meaning, Symptoms and Treatment

Did you know Alzheimer’s is the most common dementia type that occurs in about 60 to 80% of cases? Yes, its true. Many diseases can cause it and mainly these disorders are related to the abnormal build-up of proteins in the brain. It leads to the deterioration in the functioning of the nerve cells, and patients finally die. Due to the death of nerve cells, diverse areas of the brain shrink. Just remember that many cases are caused due to the disorder and can’t be reversed. In some cases, drug and alcohol abuse causes it. In those cases, it can be possible to ‘fix’ the brain damage.

What is Dementia? | Definition of Dementia

It is a progressive brain disease that occurs not due to ageing, but due to brain damage. This condition causes impairment of at least two brain functions like as memory loss and judgment. This decline in mental ability interferes with everyday life.

It affects three areas of the brain:

• Memory
• Language
• Decision-making

Dementia Stages

Seven stages of dementia are listed below:

Stage 1: No Cognitive Decline

In this stage, the individual functions normally, and is mentally healthy.

Stage 2: Very Mild Cognitive Decline

It is the normal forgetfulness related to ageing.

Stage 3: Mild Cognitive Decline

It includes slight problems in concentrating, increased memory loss, and lowered work performance. The patients may get lost more frequently and face difficulty in finding the right words. The average duration of this stage is not known yet.

Stage 4: Moderate Cognitive Decline

It includes difficulty in travelling solo to new places, reduced focus, and problems in managing finances. The person may not be able to complete the complicated task effectively or correctly. They also withdraw communication from their beloved friends or family. The average duration of this stage is two years.

Stage 5: Moderately Severe Cognitive Decline

The patients in this stage have primary memory issues and need the help of someone to complete their everyday tasks. The average duration of this stage is 1.5 years.

Stage 6: Severe Cognitive Decline (or Middle Dementia)

People in stage 5 need help to carry out their daily activities. They tend to forget the names of their close family members and do not remember even the recent events. However, a lot of people can remember the details of their past lives. 

They do not even count from one to ten. Loss of bowel or bladder control is another issue that arises during this stage. There are personality or emotional changes and an increase in anxiety that occurs. Moreover, the person’s ability to speak declines. The average duration of this stage is 2.5 years.

Stage 7: Very Severe Cognitive Decline (or Late Dementia)

When the loved one reaches the late stage of dementia (also known as end-stage or advanced dementia), the symptoms become more severe. The person does not speak and communicate with anyone. They lose psychomotor skills. And also need assistance with most of the common activities. The average duration of this stage is 1.5 to 2.5 years.

Life Expectancies by Dementia Type

Types of Dementia	Lifespan
Alzheimer’s Disease	10 years following diagnosis
Dementia with Lewy Bodies	2 to 8 years following pronounced signs
Vascular Dementia	5 years following diagnosis

How the Condition Can Cause Death?

The individual in the late stage is at a high risk of complications such as pneumonia and urinary tract infection. Difficulty in eating drinking and swallowing results in weight loss, malnutrition, and dehydration. It further increases their susceptibility to the infection. Finally, the person dies of the complications. However, it is vital to note that the condition itself is lethal.

Dementia Symptoms

Early Symptoms of Dementia

If the condition is diagnosed early, there are chances that the dementia medication will slow down the damage. Early onset symptoms typically affect people in their 50s and early 60s. As it is a progressive neurological disorder, there are plenty of symptoms and stages. 

• Memory issues, mainly remembering recent events.
• Lower concentration.
• Personality/behaviour changes.
• Increases confusion.
• Loss of ability to perform daily tasks.
• Depression.
• Lack of interest and withdrawal.
• Failing sense of direction.
• Being repetitive.
• Struggling to adapt to change.
• Changes in mood.
• Struggling to find the right words.
• Fail to manage a budget.
• Difficulty in conversation.
• Putting things in the wrong place.
• Visual issues.

Symptoms of Late Dementia

• Loss of facial expression.
• Unable to speak.
• Bedbound.
• Unable to sit or walk with help.
• Issues with daily activities.

Dementia Causes

The condition mainly affects the nerve cells in the brain which can occur in several regions of the brain. It affects people differently depending on the area of the brain affected.

• Lewy body dementia.
• Alzheimer’s disease.
• Any brain damage due to stroke or injury.
• Huntington’s disorder.
• Deficiency of Vitamin B12.
• Hypothyroidism.
• Neurosyphilis.
• Frontotemporal dementia.
• Lyme disease.

Natural Remedies to Reverse Dementia | Dementia Care

A few natural dementia management tips are as below:

Salvia

The microdilation properties in salvia hike the blood flow in the different areas of the brain and decline cognition and memory. These herbs boost microcirculation, slow blood clotting, and dilate blood vessels.

Turmeric

This magical yellow powder possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help cope with the symptoms. It is also an active ingredient in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. 

It boosts the overall cognitive functioning of the brain by blocking the creation of beta-amyloid (which is the source of plaque in the brain) that triggers the condition. You can use this wonderful spice to bring flavour to your dishes.

Kale

Kale is popular for folates and carotenoids which have a significant effect on overall health. It also minimizes the homocysteine levels in the body which can result in brain damage. You can include them in your everyday diet for a healthy mind and body.

Spinach

This green leafy veggie is not only helpful in lowering the risk but also boosts your memory.

Pumpkin

This fruit is not used just for decoration purposes, but it also offers endless health benefits as well. It is rich in essential nutrients, potassium, fibre, vitamin B3 and vitamin E which are important to cognitive health. The phytonutrients present in the pumpkins protect your brain and fight dementia.

Gingko

The fish oil is derived from the tissues of the oily fish that are rich in the omega-3 fatty acids. Many studies have shown that it guards against Alzheimer’s and helps the person to get rid of the cognitive impairment. It is full of antioxidants and boosts the blood circulation in the patients. Omega-3 also lowers the beta-amyloid plaque, thus helpful in preventing Alzheimer’s.

Ginseng

This Chinese herb has been used for centuries to prevent various health disorders. The back ginseng guards against ischemia-induced neuronal, vascular dementia, and cognitive impairment.

Banana

Bananas are an excellent source of fibre and offer an instant boost in energy. Potassium is essential for the transmission of messages from the brain. The high potassium in this fruit improves memory and focus.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is the most common ingredient in the South Asian dishes. It is used to treat conditions such as indigestion, migraines, and menstrual cramping. Studies have also shown that it is beneficial in lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s. Thus, if you are at a high risk of getting this disease, include this spice in your diet.

Almonds Seeds

Almond seeds are famous for their medicinal benefits. These tiny magical nutrient-rich seeds pose gorgeous effects on the body in endless ways. Research has proved that consuming almonds prevents memory loss and improves cognitive abilities. They are rich in vitamin E and can fight the condition.

Brahmi

This magical herb helps improve cognition. If taken twice a day, it improves memory in the adults.

How to Prevent Dementia?

Other ways to fight the risk include:

Exercise for a Healthy Mind

Exercise is essential to maintain a healthy body and mind. Smoking, weight gain, and depression are the causes of dementia. But when you stay in shape, it helps you fight this disease.

Eat Right 

Your mind is affected by the food you consume. Healthy fats, vegetables, fruits, and lean nutrients give your brain the vital nutrients to lower inflammation. It offers a constant power source for your mind. The glial cells in the brain eliminate the toxins that play a significant role in the development of Alzheimer’s. Foods such as soy, blueberries, fatty fish, and other dark berries, green tea, and ginger, protect the glial cells from damage. 

Learn Something New

It is essential to learn something new every day to lower the risk. Studies have found that active brains have less chance of developing Alzheimer’s later in life.

Tips:

• Solve crossword puzzles.
• Play memorization games on the computer.
• Study a new language.
• Read more.
• Play your favourite musical instrument.
• Take a nap in the sun.

Just remember that sleep impacts your thinking, memory, and mood- all of which are important for the health of the brain and prevent impairment. Some researchers have shown that vitamin D helps to lower Alzheimer’s risk. It activates cellular signalling and clears out the plaque buildup.