15 Things You Didn’t Know About Dementia

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There are at least 15 things you didn’t know about dementia, and it’s about time you learned what it’s really like. It’s important to know what to do and how to react.

Millions of people are living with dementia around the world

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Millions of new cases are recorded every year. Some have stated that there’s a new case reported every 3 seconds, which is kind of frightening.

Dementia takes more than one form

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It’s not a typical disorder since it’s a blanket term that covers a few different conditions. Impaired thinking is one of the hallmarks of this disorder.

Many people know at least a little something about Alzheimer’s

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This is only the most common form of the disorder, it’s not the only one. But it’s what a lot of people have to deal with when it comes to a relative, friend, or someone they know.

Billions are spent on dementia

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Think about the level of care that several dementia patients need. Then think about the research that scientists continue to perform to lessen the impact of this condition.

There are signs to look out for

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Just because a person has a bad memory doesn’t mean they’re suffering from dementia. But if it persists, and gets worse, and is followed by other symptoms such as personality change, then there’s a good chance they need to get checked out.

Some conditions can make people think a person has dementia

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There are conditions that people suffer through that might indicate the onset of dementia. Infections, an underactive thyroid, or even various medications have made it appear that some people are suffering from this disorder.

Dementia has no long-term cure

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At this time there is no way to reverse the effects of dementia. A few movies have shown the efforts and fictional results, but in the real world, scientists are still looking as if people hold out hope.

Treatments exist to help with dementia

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It is possible to help those with dementia when it comes to everyday living. It’s also possible to allow them to experience a fulfilling life despite their decline.

Several risks come with dementia

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Those over 65 are at greater risk than most, and having a family history of dementia is also a precursor. Poor heart health is another factor, and traumatic brain injury can play a huge role.

People can reduce their risk

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A healthy diet can reduce your risk of dementia, as can avoiding such habits as smoking and overeating. Regular exercise and drinking alcohol in moderation are also good ideas.

Women often suffer from dementia more than men

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It often seems to differ in various communities, but more women over 70 have been discovered to suffer from dementia than men of the same age. Why this is remains fuzzy, but the research continues to unveil more facts about this condition.

Those who are born with Down Syndrome are at a higher risk of dementia

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Roughly half of those born with Down Syndrome have been found to develop Alzheimer’s in their life. It feels entirely unfair, but the science is hard to argue with.

Young-onset dementia occurs before the age of 65

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It’s not common, but it does happen. In 2017 people from age 30 and up were diagnosed with onset dementia, though young-onset dementia is still low.

This is not a normal part of the aging process

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Many people will age and grow forgetful or slow in some ways, but this is not typically due to dementia. This is a degenerative brain disease that is much different from just ‘getting old’.

Simply having dementia doesn’t mean life is over

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The millions who have endured dementia to this point would likely state that life is life, no matter what happens. Sure, some things will change due to this condition, but there are many ways to learn how to live with dementia.

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