Allison Care Center - Vivage Beecan

Understanding Types of Dementia When people hear the word dementia, they often think of it as one condition. However, dementia is a term used to describe a variety of conditions relating to a form of memory impairment.  Dementia doesnt discriminate. It can affect any of us, regardless of health history or genetic makeup. But while receiving a dementia diagnosis can be frightening, it is important to remember that someone living with dementia can still enjoy the rich experiences that life has to offer.  Having a fuller understanding of the different types of dementia that exist can help guide individuals and their loved ones care decisions. Alzheimers disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. With Alzheimers, abnormal proteins develop and disrupt the connections between neurons and nerve cells in the brain. As more of these connections are lost, the symptoms of Alzheimers disease (memory loss, confusion about time, etc.) become more prevalent. Frontotemporal dementia affects the nerve cells and connections in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Because these lobes are associated with personality, behavior, and language, individuals with frontotemporal dementia experience symptoms and changes involving these areas. Vascular dementia is caused by conditions that limit or block blood flow to the brain, resulting in oxygen deprivation that causes a decline in thinking skills. This type of dementia is generally caused by conditions such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), heart disease, and stroke. Management of dementia starts with understanding it. While there is currently no cure for dementia, there are therapies and services that focus on cognitive health and enhancing the lives of those living with dementia. Vivage is committed to providing person-centered dementia care. To learn how we promote compassion, connection, safety, and health, visit www.vivage.com.  This article was submitted by Julie Davie. Julie is a Sales and Marketing Director with Vivage and may be reached at 303-238-3838 or by email at jdavie@vivage.com.