Navigating Dementia: Awareness, Care and Support

By Dr. Neeharika Thottempudi, MD

Dementia, a syndrome characterized by a decline in cognitive function beyond normal aging, significantly impacts memory, thinking, behavior, personality, and daily activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause, but other types exist, including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 55 million people worldwide live with dementia, with 10 million new cases diagnosed annually.

Recognizing the Signs:

Dementia manifests in various ways. Early signs and symptoms can include:

• Forgetting recent events or conversations
• Difficulty with planning and problem-solving (e.g., managing finances, cooking)
• Repetitive questioning or storytelling
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Trouble finding words or following conversations
• Changes in personality or behavior (e.g., increased irritability or suspicion)
• Loss of interest in hobbies or social activities

In later stages, individuals may experience difficulty recognizing loved ones, problems with balance and movement, loss of bladder and bowel control, and challenges with self-feeding.

Reducing the Risk:

A 2024 report by The Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention, and care suggests that modifying 14 risk factors could potentially prevent or delay nearly half of dementia cases. These risk factors span the entire lifespan and include:

• Throughout Life: Many factors contribute to brain health throughout adulthood:
  • Protect Your Head: Preventing traumatic brain injuries is crucial. Wear helmets during activities like cycling and skiing, use seatbelts in vehicles, and take precautions to avoid falls.
  • Hear Clearly: Untreated hearing loss is a major dementia risk factor. Use hearing aids if needed and minimize exposure to loud noises.
  • Stay Active: Regular physical activity is vital. Participating in sports, exercise, or even brisk walking can significantly reduce your risk.
  • Maintain Healthy Weight: Obesity in midlife has been linked to increased dementia risk. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight.
  • Cholesterol Control: Treatment of elevated LDL cholesterol from midlife onward is important for brain health.
  • Vision Health: Vision loss can contribute to cognitive dysfunction. Regular eye exams and treatment for vision problems are essential.
  • Stay Connected: Engaging in community activities, maintaining friendships, and avoiding social isolation are crucial for cognitive well-being.
  • Breathe Clean Air: Reduce exposure to air pollution, which has been linked to cognitive decline.
  • Limit Alcohol: Reducing alcohol consumption is important, as excessive alcohol intake can contribute to memory loss and other cognitive issues.
  • Don’t Smoke: Avoid cigarette smoking and support smoke-free public spaces. Smoking is detrimental to overall health, including brain health.

Caring for Loved Ones:

Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging. Caregivers must prioritize their own well-being by:

• Taking regular breaks and utilizing respite care services.
• Joining support groups for shared experiences and advice.
• Maintaining their physical and mental health.

A Community’s Role:

I’m excited to invite you to my upcoming Doc Talk on Navigating Dementia: Awareness, Care, and Support taking place on March 19th at 2:00 PM at the Carson Valley Inn. Join me for an informative session where I will discuss important aspects of dementia. I look forward to sharing valuable insights and answering your questions. Please join me for this informative session.