Understanding Dementia.

dementia

/dɪˈmɛnʃə/

Late 18th century: from Latin, from demens, dement-

Dementia is used to describe a group of brain disorders which have a profound effect upon peoples’ lives, and which share similar symptoms. 

Dementia is progressive; it persists over time, and it is irreversible.

There are different types of Dementia – Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of Dementia. Still, whatever its form, it usually affects the memory, the ability to communicate, reason or make decisions. Mood and behaviour can be affected, as well as a decline in skills and abilities of daily activities. The second most common type of Dementia is vascular dementia (VaD), which may be caused by various types of vascular diseases/ conditions.

With the increasing loss of function, the person is gradually robbed of their independence, and cognitive impairment is such that a person with Dementia cannot learn new information. The person affected will eventually need full-time care. The individual and their loved ones are affected on personal, emotional, financial and social levels. It affects society and has already been established as one of the major challenges of this century.

It is essential to create a relationship to understand the neurological changes and to be able to assist a person living with dementia.

Care in Midstream offers a specialised unit with 24/7 Person-centred Care as part of our holistic approach to caring for our residents with Dementia. We continuously communicate and assist residents’ families in coping with different types of Dementia on a personal level.