All you need to know about Dementia

Can You Prevent Dementia?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, but you can reduce your risk with lifestyle changes:

• Stay physically active to promote brain health.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Engage in mentally stimulating activities like puzzles or learning new skills.
• Manage risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake to protect brain function.

At Talking Brains Center, we create personalized prevention plans that include physical activity, cognitive exercises, and healthy lifestyle guidance.

How Hereditary Is Dementia?

Dementia can have a genetic component, particularly in Alzheimer’s disease. However, genetics alone do not determine your fate. Lifestyle and environmental factors also play crucial roles.

If you have concerns about your risk, our neuropsychologists at Talking Brains Center provide assessments and strategies to support brain health.

Is Dementia Terminal?

Dementia is a progressive condition. While it is not directly terminal, advanced stages can lead to severe complications such as infections, pneumonia, or malnutrition, which may be life-threatening.

What Are the First Stages of Dementia?

Early symptoms may include:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty concentrating
• Confusion with time or place
• Trouble completing everyday tasks

These signs can be subtle. Early diagnosis is critical for effective intervention. At Talking Brains Center, we conduct detailed cognitive assessments to detect early symptoms.

How Do You Treat Dementia?

Though there is no cure, treatments aim to manage symptoms and enhance quality of life. Key approaches include:

• Medications to slow cognitive decline
• Cognitive stimulation therapy to support brain function
• Physical activity programs to improve overall health
• Emotional and psychological support for patients and caregivers

Our speech and psychomotor therapists provide targeted therapies to enhance communication, cognitive skills, and coordination.

Is Alzheimer’s a Type of Dementia?

Yes, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-70% of cases. It is characterized by the accumulation of plaques and tangles in the brain, causing progressive memory loss and cognitive impairment.

Other types of dementia include:

• Vascular dementia (linked to poor blood flow)
• Lewy body dementia
• Frontotemporal dementia

What Is the Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease?

Dementia is a broad term describing symptoms like memory loss and confusion. Alzheimer’s disease is one type of dementia. While Alzheimer’s typically begins with memory problems, other forms may present different symptoms initially.

How to Help Someone with Dementia

Supporting a person with dementia involves:

• Creating routines to minimize confusion
• Using clear communication with simple language
• Encouraging independence where possible
• Providing social engagement through meaningful activities

Our team collaborates with families to develop care plans that maintain dignity and independence for those with dementia.

How to Slow Down Dementia

Although dementia cannot be reversed, certain measures may slow its progression:

• Engage in cognitive activities like reading and puzzles
• Exercise regularly to boost overall health
• Eat a brain-healthy diet rich in omega-3s and antioxidants
• Manage stress and chronic conditions

Talking Brains Center offers programs designed to promote brain health and slow cognitive decline.

How to Know If I Have Dementia

Signs to watch for include:

• Persistent memory issues
• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Changes in problem-solving ability

If you experience these symptoms, seek a professional evaluation. Our neuropsychologists provide comprehensive diagnostic services to identify cognitive changes and offer personalized care plans.

Take the Next Step with Talking Brains Center

Dementia presents many challenges, but early intervention, personalized care, and lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference. At Talking Brains Center, we offer expertise and compassionate support through our team of psychomotor therapists, neuropsychologists, and speech therapists.

Contact us today to learn how we can support you or your loved one in living well with dementia.