Many people are surprised to hear some forms of dementia can be controlled or completely reversed with the proper treatments and lifestyle changes. Here’s a quick look at six of the most common causes of reversible dementia and a few steps older adults can take to reduce the risk of sudden cognitive decline.
Nutritional Deficiencies
As seniors grow older, it becomes more difficult for the digestive system to absorb certain nutrients. Over the course of a few years, this can result in a wide variety of emotional and mental issues. Vitamin B12 deficiencies are particularly common among older adults, and confusion is one of the leading symptoms of that particular deficiency. Most seniors can avoid nutritional deficiencies by following a healthy diet and taking high-quality supplements.
Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Clearwater seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Home Care Assistance.
Substance Abuse
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, more than one million seniors have some form of substance abuse disorder. When left untreated, a substance abuse disorder increases the risk of dementia and sudden cognitive decline. If you believe your aging loved one is having problems with drugs or alcohol, speak with his or her doctor about coming up with a long-term treatment plan.
Depression
Depression is very common among seniors, and this disorder can eventually impact cognitive abilities. Much like substance abuse, depression needs to be treated by a medical specialist. You must also make sure your loved one socializes with peers and remains stimulated throughout the day. Interacting with family and friends can reduce the risk of depression as well as dementia.
Medications
While most medications are thoroughly studied before they’re released to the public, some drugs have very strong side effects. If your loved one’s cognitive abilities seem to be impaired, a doctor must take a closer look at all the medications your loved one is taking. In some cases, tweaking dosages and medications can reverse dementia-like symptoms in a matter of weeks.
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but compassionate help is available. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of homecare families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Hormonal Dysfunctions
Hormones naturally shift with age, but those changes should be very gradual. When hormone levels quickly plummet, seniors will most likely experience a wide range of unusual symptoms, such as memory loss, confusion, agitation, and an inability to follow conversations. Treating hormonal dysfunctions usually involves a mixture of lifestyle changes and hormone injections.
Head Trauma
Even a relatively minor head injury can impact mental health, and those accidents are frighteningly common. Seniors with balance or agility issues must always use mobility devices, such as walkers and wheelchairs. You should also make sure your loved one’s home has safety features, such as grab bars in the restrooms and ramps leading up to the entryways. If a head injury does occur, your loved one must immediately head to the emergency room so it can be properly treated.
Highly trained caregivers with experience in caring for seniors with dementia can be a fantastic resource for family members. Families looking for top-rated Clearwater Home Care providers can reach out to Home Care Assistance. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones. For reliable in-home dementia care services, contact us at (727) 330-7862 today.