Dementia and Alzheimer’s are incredibly destructive conditions that can end up causing untold harm. They ravage the mind of an individual and make it difficult for them to function on their own. According to the World Health Organization, it’s estimated that 55 million people worldwide are suffering from the effects of dementia, and over 60% of these victims live in low-to-middle-income countries. This is a serious problem that affects individuals in their late stage of life. Many nursing homes must help residents deal with the painful effects of Alzheimer’s and dementia on a daily basis, and your loved one may need to live in such a community depending on their needs. In order to make the best choice for your family member, it’s important to know what these conditions look like.
Dementia
To put it into simple terms, dementia refers to an overall decline in the mental functionality of an individual. This decline can become a hindrance to their daily lives, relationships, and much more. People who are afflicted with this condition may need professionals at nursing homes to help take care of them, depending on the severity of their symptoms.
Alzheimer’s
While dementia is a general term, Alzheimer’s refers to a specific disease. Alzheimer’s occurs when cell damage causes a person to undergo complex brain changes. These brain changes manifest in the form of dementia, and the symptoms only get worse as a person ages. Alzheimer’s usually begins to manifest as smaller memory problems, and eventually it leads to problems with daily tasks like walking and talking.
What Should I Do if My Family Member Has Dementia or Alzheimer’s?
If your loved one is showing signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s, be sure to take them to a doctor for a proper diagnosis. The doctor may recommend that they receive special care at an assisted living facility. Nursing homes and memory care facilities may be difficult life changes to adjust to at first, but they provide residents with the assistance they need to live the best quality of life possible. If you have a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s who needs support with daily living, Palm Bay Memory Care will ensure that they’re treated with the respect and kindness they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a tour and learn more about how we can help your loved one live their best life.