There are several different forms of dementia, with Alzheimer's Disease the most common and well known. In the early 20th century, confusion in older people was viewed as a normal symptom of old age. However, Dr. Alois Alzheimer worked with a middle-aged woman whose brain upon autopsy revealed abnormal substances called plaques and tangles. Today, Alzheimer's and the other dementias are considered diseases with symptoms that can be categorized into stages of severity.
What is Dementia?
The term "dementia" comes from the Latin words "De (meaning away) and "Mentia" (meaning mind). It describes a condition in which the person has declined from a condition where he was once normal. Therefore, people with developmental disabilities would not be said to have dementia unless they begin losing cognitive skills later in life. Dementia is not always easy to diagnose; part of the process is ruling out other disorders such as depression and thyroid disease that can be treated. Some people with mental illnesses present with hallucinations--a symptom sometimes seen in late-stage dementia. However, people with mental illness usually manifest symptoms at a much younger age. The primary red flag for dementia in an older person is memory impairment.
10 Warning Signs
Many older people wonder if they should worry when they lose their keys or leave the stove on. Memory problems that accompany normal aging are usually related to recent events, such as where the remote control was placed. This type of memory begins declining around 30. Doctors use the "mini-Mental State Exam" or MMSE to screen for decline in memory and cognitive abilities. It asks questions such as "what is today's date?" and "what state are we in?" Many of the following early symptoms of dementia also seem related to memory impairment: forgetting recently learned information; difficulty performing familiar activities, such as preparing a meal; problems with language, such as forgetting simple words or using word substitutions; getting lost in a familiar place; poor judgment, such as wearing snow boots in summer; difficulty with abstract thinking, such as calculating what something should cost; losing things; rapid mood changes for no apparent reason; changes in personality, such as fear or suspicion; and increasing passivity.
Importance of Early Detection
Although Alzheimer's disease cannot be confirmed until after autopsy, doctors can make an early diagnosis based on behavior, memory tests such as the MMSE and diagnostic medical tests of blood, urine, spinal fluid and brain scans. Early detection is important because medications can slow memory loss and confusion. Once a diagnosis is made behavioral interventions, nutritious meals, stimulating activities and support are extremely important in helping the person with dementia maintain the best quality of life possible.
References
- "Still Giving Kisses: A Guide to Helping and Enjoying the Alzheimer's Victim you Love", Barbara A. Smith, 2008.
- "What If It's Not Alzheimer's?", Lisa Radin & Gary Radin, 2003.
- "The Forgetting", David Shenk, 2001.
