Dementia is an umbrella term for OVER 100 different diseases that cause cognitive loss overtime. When people who think of Dementia, they generally think of Alzheimer's or Dementia and are used interchangeably used and that is extremely incorrect. Alzheimer's disease is the MOST common cause of Dementia, but it is not a word that can be used in place of Dementia. There are over 100 causes of Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease is just 1 of these causes.
It's very common to look at someone who is suddenly acting extremely forgetful or someone who is misplacing things more often and think they have Dementia because they are aging. But, this is not always the first indicator of Dementia because there are actually EIGHT (8) other extremely common behavior changes that occur that can point towards Dementia. Look out for these other signs of Dementia and try to get in to see your primary care physician to discuss your concerns. Then asked to be connected with a trusted neurologist or a dementia specialist near you.
I learned a lot of these creative strategies and helpful hints from an amazing Gerontologist and Dementia Educator, Rachael Wonderlin. I want to thank her and I am so lucky to learn from her as I continue to grow my skills.
*EVERYONE with possible dementia should have a thorough assessment: we/doctors may be able to treat some of their symptoms and improve their quality of life! It's always worth checking into to be sure.
Check out her awesome website here: https://rachaelwonderlin.com
Laura Cassell, CDP, M.S. Applied Aging Sciences
Gerontologist & Dementia Practitioner
Serving the Florida Panhandle (Pensacola-Tallahassee, FL)
Contact: laurac@seniorcareauthority.com
OR 850-723-6484