Major types of dementia
This article outlines the major types of dementia, the causes and usual age of onset. It should also be noted that many patients have more than one factors present, with Alzheimer’s commonly co-existing with vascular dementia. The article also includes links to other information and videos on dementia topics.
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-and-dementia/understanding-different-types-dementia
Risk Factors for Dementia
This article discusses the risk factors for dementia, and pro active steps people can take to reduce these risks, all of which are also major lifestyle factors which contribute to general health.
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/08/dementia-is-on-the-rise-here-are-12-risks-to-avoid-.html
Living alone with dementia
This article is very informative for those who have been diagnosed with early stages of dementia. For those living alone, this can be very challenging. The article contains a number of links to support services for legal advice, financial assistance, and the importance of support from friends and families, plus in-home care.
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-and-dementia/tips-living-alone-early-stage-dementia
Approaches to caring for dementia patients
This article describes a program being trialed in a Melbourne (Australia) facility, looking at strategies to support and optimize the quality of life for people living with dementia. The program focuses on 5 key strategies:
- Person-centred care
- Dementia-friendly environments
- Workforce training and capacity building
- Integration and coordination
- Clinical care
Healthy Living is essential for those living with dementia
This is a recent CNN report of a Journal of the American Medical Association paper published in early 2024. This is based on an ongoing research project on aging and dementia comprising older adults living in retirement communities, senior housing, and individual residences in the Chicago area. This current paper looked at links between a healthy lifestyle, including noncurrent smoking, 150 minutes or more physical activity per week, limiting alcohol consumption, diet, and late-life cognitive activity. It provides further evidence that a Mediterranean-style diet, regular exercise, and cognitive engagement late in life are associated with better global cognitive functioning and quality of life, independent of dementia pathology.
https://edition.cnn.com/2024/02/05/health/healthy-living-dementia-study-wellness/index.html
Dementia does not equal loss of worth or value
This recent article from an Australian doctor describes his experience caring for his wife, from her initial diagnosis of dementia to her eventual passing over 7 years. Despite the loss, he also reflects on what was preserved and appreciates the time they had together, even as she declined. “I found that by concentrating on what was preserved, there were always those times and reasons for, if not optimism, then at least hope.” The lesson we can take is that even as caring for someone imposes unique challenges, there can be many positive experiences for families and carers, provided they have the support to meet these challenges.
https://www.ausdoc.com.au/opinion/she-lost-her-abilities-but-not-herself-my-wifes-life-remained-worthwhile-even-with-dementia/