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The Dangers Of Dementia
Dementia is not a specific disease but an umbrella term for a range of symptoms related to one’s mental ability. Older people with dementia experience memory loss, decreased decision-making skills, difficulty thinking and communicating. Some persons also experience severe confusion and reduced motor function. These symptoms can be so severe, the person’s quality of life is greatly affected. More than 50 million people worldwide suffer from dementia.
Types and risk factors
Dementia is often classed as different diseases. These include Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, Lewy body, frontotemporal, and mixed dementia. A doctor can help with a diagnosis and treatment options to reduce symptoms. Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia. While not all older adults will develop the condition, there are common risk factors like genetics, age, and smoking. However, these 3 chronic conditions significantly increase the risk of dementia. If treated in earlier years, the chances of dementia decrease significantly.
1. Diabetes and dementia
Diabetes is one of the most common and widespread diseases today. People with type 2 diabetes have high blood sugar. The body cannot create the necessary insulin to lower blood sugar. High blood sugar causes buildup that can lead to several severe conditions. People with diabetes are at risk for high blood pressure, stroke, nerve damage, skin and eye damage. Scientists have seen a link between diabetes and Alzheimer’s. While the link is not clear, diabetes can damage blood vessels and reduce cognitive function.
Dealing with diabetes
With the help of a healthcare professional, anyone can manage diabetes. Take the necessary medication to control insulin levels. A combination of diet and exercise is instrumental in managing the effects of diabetes. Try eating a diet high in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. As little as 30 minutes of daily exercise can help with managing diabetes. These steps may even help with avoiding the development of diabetes altogether.
2. High cholesterol and vascular dementia
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance crucial for cell growth and other body functions. Excess cholesterol can be dangerous and even deadly. High cholesterol can create fatty deposits in blood vessels, restricting blood flow to arteries. If left untreated, high cholesterol develops into atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis can lead to strokes, heart attacks, and other severe diseases. The condition may restrict blood flow to the brain, destroying essential blood cells. This could lead to vascular dementia.
Conquering your cholesterol
Lowering the risks of high cholesterol starts with knowing the numbers. Take a cholesterol test every 4-6 years. If high cholesterol runs in the family, cut this time in half. With a read on cholesterol levels, lifestyle changes are vital to success. Start with the diet, restricting cholesterol-rich foods. Proper exercise, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight are other key steps. In severe cases, a doctor may need to prescribe medication to manage cholesterol levels. Together with testing, these moves can reduce the chances of dementia.
3. Beware the effects of obesity
Obesity is a chronic condition that continues to plague Americans. Close to 45% of middle-aged Americans are obese. Obesity in mid-life is a serious risk factor for dementia. Persons suffering from obesity have excessive fat accumulation that can cause health problems. The condition can lead to other lifestyle diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and heart disease. Like diabetes and high cholesterol, diet, exercise, and other healthy lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of dementia.
Dementia needs all hands on deck
Dementia can be stressful for all involved. A loved one with dementia needs as much help as possible. A doctor can help with initial treatment. With time, however, the condition becomes increasingly challenging to handle. Start planning health and safety protocols, especially if the loved one lives alone. More importantly, reduce all risk factors as much as possible. Further support like assisted living can help. Make sure to explore all options to make dementia manageable for all involved. For more information about dementia risk, speak with a healthcare provider.
