By Dr. Afriyie Randle
WKTV Community Contributor
In past 100 years, the average life expectancy of a man in the United States has gone from 40 to 77 with women going from 40 to 88. With the average life expectancy continues to increase so does the likelihood of older adults suffering from four or more chronic diseases.
Amongst these chronic diseases, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia reign supreme. Although both disorders are common, they are not a result of “just getting old”. In other words “getting old” doesn’t necessarily mean you will get dementia.
Mild dementia: In early stages of dementia your loved one may not experience any symptoms though changes in the brain are present. Family members or spouses may notice small abnormalities that are indeed so small that one may dismiss them as normal forgetfulness. This can include forgetting a meeting, loosing your keys, or misplacing an item.
Moderate dementia: In moderate dementia signs of memory changes are more evident. Ability to maintain ones household is more difficulty because bills aren’t being managed. Forgetfulness in regards to managing medication and eating is apparent. Next the individual requires more assistance with activities of daily living such as dressing, remembering addresses and hygiene.
Severe dementia: In severe dementia, constant supervision is required. Loosing control of bowel and bladder may be present. Personality changes are noticed. Speech starts to decrease and the ability to recognize loved ones wane. The individual is unaware of his/her surroundings and is unable to communicate their needs.
Dementia effects the patient and the family. The total lifetime cost of care for someone with dementia is estimated to be nearly $350,000. Learn to recognize early and late signs will allow for your love one to be cared for appropriately and always contact your health provider with questions.
