Lately, many use the terms “dementia” and “Alzheimer’s Disease”
interchangeably. The fact remains that not everyone who is
suffering with dementia is dealing with Alzheimer’s.
Statistically, Alzheimer’s accounts for about 50% to 75% of all
dementia cases. Other reasons for this disorder may be due to
blood vessel disease or “mini-stokes” as well as a variety of less
common ailments that affect the brain.
Admitting that you or someone you love is affected by this old-age
disease can be difficult. Often the afflicted person is the first
to realize that things just aren’t right, and the realization can be
frightening and frustrating. Simple tasks that were easily
accomplished earlier in life may become difficult, such as driving,
walking to familiar locations without getting lost, cooking, or holding
a conversation.
Although Alzheimer’s can often progress quite slowly, other forms of
dementia take a faster path. This can be difficult for the
individual’s family or caretaker, as the level of responsibility for
the impaired person increases quickly. Those afflicted may begin
forgetting to do little things that most take for granted, such as
turning off the water after showering or turning off a burner or oven,
both of which can be dangerous to the individual or those with whom
they’re living.
This is a confusing time for dementia patients, as they sometimes
possess moments of clarity, making it difficult to understand why they
are no longer trusted with miniscule tasks and why they have lost their
freedom.
Many caregivers attempt heroic measures, promising to take care of
their loved one until his/her death. However, this is often a
mistake. Caregiver burnout occurs often among those who are
caring for those with any sort of dementia-related disorder.
It’s best to look at long-range options, whether it be placement in an
adult day care program, respite care, or full-time living arrangements
in a nursing facility. Today, many assisted-living communities
and nursing homes specialize in dementia care, making them an ideal
choice.
Home
Reader Comments 
Related Links 
Recent Posts
By: Benjamin22 Posted: Jan 15 2006 03:40:32 PM