We all can be forgetful.  As we age, our memory and our cognitive abilities change.  Many elderly citizens may experience a slight loss of memory.  When memory loss becomes more pronounced and  affects one’s daily life and functionality, it could be a symptom of dementia.

As we age the risk of developing dementia increases, but dementia is specific and can be diagnosed. Many things can cause memory loss, cognitive decline, hearing loss, or dementia-like symptoms, which are caused by something else entirely.

What is Dementia?

The term “dementia” refers to a general decline of one’s mental ability which is prominent enough to disrupt one’s daily routine and life. Dementia is the generic term for memory loss. There are many different causes of dementia, of which Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common causes.  Stroke is another common cause of dementia.  Thinking, planning, recalling, and engaging are all skills that can deteriorate over time because of dementia.

Each person experiences dementia differently.  For some, especially if stroke is the cause of the dementia, the individual might experience a relatively static decline.  Subsequent strokes may well increase memory loss.

For others who have dementia caused by Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or Louis Bodies disease, the memory loss is likely to become progressively worse.  The rate of decline is different for each individual who goes through dementia. For some, the rate of mental decline is very quick, but for others, it may take many years to observe significant changes.

If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of dementia or general memory loss contact your doctor for treatment recommendations.

Causes of Dementia

There is a wide range of causes which can alter the brain resulting in dementia. Some of the common causes are listed below:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Parkinson’s disease
• Head injuries
• Strokes
• Tumors

In rare instances, dementia can be caused by a factor which is treatable. Below are some of the most treatable causes of dementia:

• Urinary Tract Infection
• Underactive thyroid gland (Hypothyroid)
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Fluid build-up on the brain
• Depression
• Incorrect medication dosage and mixing pharmaceuticals

People on strong prescription drugs can often seem to become more and more forgetful or absent-minded because of the chemical combinations in their brain. This can be caused by a combination of prescriptions, OTC, vitamins, and other supplements. Speak to your doctor about the cognitive medication side effects or symptoms and how to increase cognitive abilities in your day-to-day life.

Alzheimer’s vs. Dementia

Dementia can take form as Alzheimer’s disease but does not always do so. Alzheimer’s is a specific form of brain deterioration which affects memory, speech, cognitive abilities, and functionality in daily life. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s will get worse over time and will eventually require supervised care for the individual. Medication is available for treatment which will help to slow the symptoms and progression of the disease plus increasing the longevity and quality of life.

Care Facilities

Over time, those who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s will require more and more care. Many dementia patients who suffer from severe memory loss will eventually require long-term care in a specialized living environment. However, before that is necessary, options are available to provide home care or adult day care.

The features and benefits of an adult day memory care center, in Atlanta or elsewhere, are the services which are provided. Social programs, physical exercise programs, and medication management are all standard operations of a memory care center.

The Atlanta area has some of the best senior care and adult day care centers in the state of Georgia. However, relocating yourself or a loved one is not always necessary. In fact, staying in a familiar setting can be very beneficial in maintaining a safe and caring environment for someone who is suffering from signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s. Seek out senior home care providers near you to see what services and options are available.

If you live in metro Atlanta, one such senior home care service which specializes in memory care is Skylark Senior Care. Call a representative of Skylark Senior Care to discuss how you or your loved ones daily life can be improved by a home care professional.

Through adult day care, home care, or a combination, Skylark offers seniors the choice to stay in their homes while receiving treatment. The Skylark staff will work with the care receiver to create an individualized treatment plan specific to one’s individual needs and desires.

Skylark Home Care

(404) 410-1510
4265 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite B
Johns Creek, GA 30024

Home Service Areas:

• Alpharetta Home Care
• Atlanta Home Care
• Buford Home Care
• Cumming Home Care
• East Cobb Home Care
• Johns Creek Home Care

Senior care facilities in metro Atlanta empower senior citizens to stay active in their daily lives. This can give the gift of a maintained integrity and self-image in the later stages of dementia. Residents of memory care centers interact in a supervised, comfortable, and dignified environment.

The memories which we cherish are never lost or forgotten as long as we continue to give love and care to the ones who need it. There is no cure for dementia, however, there are treatments available and care facilities which can increase your loved one’s quality of life and integrity through these challenges. Consider home care and adult day care facilities in metro Atlanta, which can make a world of difference.