What is dementia? The short answer is that it is any deterioration of the brain that causes regression into perhaps a childlike or unpredictable state of mind. This article will present a laymans observations of the condition.

1. Overview:

Dementia can be caused by a number of different diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Pick's disease or simply aging. This article will mainly cover Pick's disease, as close observance was made of a patient suffering from this condition, with the observations starting 10 years before the onset of the disease, when the patient was in perfect health, and continuing until his death. Many of the symptoms and behaviour caused by the disease are similar across all types of dementia.

2. Physical causes and effects.

Pick's disease is a deterioration of the frontal lobe of the brain. Alzheimer's apparently affects the back of the brain. Certain areas of the brain seem to break down into a fluid. This is a process, during which more and more of the brain's functions are impaired or destroyed. Depending on the individual, this could first affect his emotions, memory and inhibitions, and as the disease progresses, it starts affecting the involuntary functions such as bladder, renal, breathing, heart and so on. Eventually adult nappies have to be worn. Weight gain can occur unless his eating is closely controlled, but in a home situation this can be almost impossible. Even with controlled eating, the changes in the body also cause weight gain.

3. Early symptoms.

Short term memory loss is an early symptom, coupled with out of character behaviour. May take twice as long to go to the store up the road. A man gives the impression of "having an affair" as he may disappear for quite a few hours and have no explanation as to where he was. Will find it gradually more difficult to tackle familiar everyday tasks like fixing a kettle or sorting out the garden.

4. Behavioural changes.

Pick's disease is closely related to Alzheimer's disease, but with slightly differing symptoms. The patient is usually less aggressive. He regresses to childlike behaviour where he likes to "go for a ride," finds boyish things like big buses and trains fascinating. he has no sense of responsibility and does not worry about finances or traffic fines. Driving rapidly deteriorates to a dangerous and reckless level. Spends money with gay abandon. Chats up ladies with no inhibitions, even though married. Totally forgets anniversaries and shows no interest in them. Has little or no emotions, especially loving or kind acts towards his spouse, but is otherwise happy and carefree. Will wander off and get lost within minutes if not watched. Develops compulsive behaviour: the patient incessantly combed his hair.

5. How to care for the patient.

The patient must, of course, be treated with respect, but since they are childlike, a very firm approach must be used towards them. They must be told in no uncertain terms what to do, and the threat of removal of privileges seems to help in controlling their behaviour. They must be kept busy with things that they can do, such as polishing shoes, making beds, painting - one needs to try them with a task and see how they manage, bearing in mind that their abilities are constantly changing with time. Don't let them drive if they are unable to.

6. Outlook.

Sufferers of Pick's disease usually live for 4 to 7 years after diagnosis. Alzheimer patients can live for up to 28 years after diagnosis. If the cause is simply aging, it appears to shorten the lifespan, but it's hard to tell if it is the dementia or simply the natural course of old age. Great strides have been made in the medication available to treat these diseases, and a large amount of government money has been allocated to research.

5. Help and Support groups for carers.

As this sort of disease is quite widespread and common, there are numerous support groups and helpers, wherever you may live. Often a search of the phone book or a Google search will yield results. Assistance is definitely needed, as the person caring for a patient of this nature can become totally exhausted, especially as the disease can last for 10 or 15 years. There are institutions where the patient can go for the day, where they are cared for and given things to do to occupy them happily. This gives the carer time to recover and gather their thoughts, and take care of themselves.

Dementia is quite a sad situation, as loved ones feel they have "lost" their family member even though he is still with them. But there are lighter moments, and with the help of friends, family and support groups, the burden is a lot lighter. Life does go on!

Duncan Kelly

More of these type of articles are available at:

WrinklyO Web Node at http://wrinklyo.googlepages.com

Don't lose out! Your life will be incomplete!

A lot of other items are there that you may just be interested in. Check out the Promotions and Special Offers Page!

May you have a successful and happy day!

Duncan Kelly