If you’re caring for an older adult in your life, it’s important to learn more about the things your loved one may be dealing with. Sometimes, seniors are at risk for illnesses that don’t normally affect younger individuals. This is certainly the case with dementia. One of the biggest risk factors for this kind of illness is, in fact, age. So, as the senior in your life grows older, it’s important for you to have more knowledge about dementia and how it can impact your loved one’s life and yours. There are several different forms of dementia, each having its own set of symptoms and characteristics. Since there are so many different forms of dementia, the effects may vary slightly from person to person. This is one of the main reasons why caretakers should be informed about dementia. Having more knowledge can help you to recognize the signs quickly.
In turn, seeing the signs allows you to seek the best care and treatment for your loved one. It’s not always easy to know how to make sure your aging loved one is comfortable. And it can be challenging to find the best care for him or her. If you are the main caretaker, you may sometimes need a little extra help. This is an issue that comes up in families very often. So, you are certainly not alone. The good news is that there is help for families who need it. There are caregivers who can help you meet the needs of your older loved one and provide the gentle and compassionate care he or she needs. Still, it’s good for you to have as much information about what your aging family member could be experiencing if dementia is in the picture. Let’s discuss the forms of dementia.
The Effects of Dementia in Your Loved One’s Life
You may know about dementia and what it is. That is definitely some valuable information to have. However, it’s also necessary to understand how dementia impacts the lives of those who have it. Firstly, it’s important to keep in mind that dementia is not curable; it’s non-reversible. It is, however, treatable. This means that, even if an individual is diagnosed with one of the forms of dementia, he or she can still get care and live a comfortable and healthy life. Still, many of the effects of this illness will remain. Dementia can change a person’s life in many different ways. Although the symptoms and effects may be different depending on this type of dementia a person has, this illness affects the brain. So, each individual who deals with this illness will experience changes in their cognitive activity. Dementia impacts the memory, thinking patterns and even the way people speak.
Various Forms of Dementia
There are two main categories of dementia: cortical and subcortical. One of the forms of dementia that falls under the cortical category is vascular dementia. This kind of dementia often occurs as a result of a stroke or multiple strokes. Usually, people who deal with a type of cortical dementia struggle with memory, speech and language, as well as comprehension. Subcortical dementia may not affect the memory or language of an individual. But, it can certainly interfere with the way a person thinks. It can also lessen one’s ability to do certain tasks. Parkinson’s disease is a type of subcortical dementia.
Earlier, we mentioned that there is help for families who are working to provide care for older loved ones. Here at Florida First Senior Home Care, we provide opportunities for families to find that kind of help. And we can work with you to find the best caregiver for the older adult in your life. Just contact us today to learn more.