What is dementia?

2024-03-28

Dementia is not a single disease but an umbrella term for conditions that gradually impair memory, thinking and the ability to manage daily life. The most common forms are Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia.

A complete change in brain function

Dementia is a complete change in the brain’s functions, resulting in loss of memory, thinking and the ability to carry out everyday tasks. It is not a single disease but an umbrella term for various diseases and conditions that affect the brain in similar ways.

The most common forms are Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia. Read more about frontotemporal dementia as another common form.

Symptoms of dementia

Symptoms of dementia vary depending on which part of the brain is most affected. Common signs include memory loss, confusion, language problems, impaired judgement and changes in behaviour.

Read about the five early signs of dementia to recognise warning signals early.

Treatments and support

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for dementia, but there are treatments and support that can help improve quality of life. These include medication to relieve symptoms, therapy to manage behavioural challenges, and various forms of support for both the patient and their carers.

Living with dementia

Living with dementia can be challenging, but it is important to remember that the person is still the same inside. By offering love, understanding and support, we can help them live as fully as possible and respect their dignity and wellbeing.

Read more: Different types of dementia – Alzheimer’s disease – Vascular dementia – Early signs of dementia – Dementia tracker

Sensorem’s safety alarm has GPS positioning, medication reminders and automatic fall alarm

Sensorem’s personal alarm is an example of a technical aid specially developed for people with dementia. The personal alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning so that relatives can see the user’s position on a map in the Sensorem app. Relatives are automatically called by the personal alarm (two-way communication) if the user leaves a predetermined geographical area. The personal alarm also has medication reminders, which means that the watch emits a sound and tells the user that it is time to take their medication. The personal alarm can also alert automatically in the event of a fall with the built-in fall sensor.

 

 

READ ABOUT HOW SENSOREM’S PERSONAL ALARM CAN HELP PERSONS SUFFERING FROM DEMENTIA

References