Dementia: Ways to Manage the Condition
Dementia is an acquired loss of cognitive abilities, a rather difficult disease not only for the patient but also for the family. Diagnosing dementia requires observation with an assessment of impairments in daily life, with changes in behavior confirmed by family members. CSM Clinic in Kyiv carries out extended examination for the treatment of the disease for patients of all ages. The doctor takes a history of mental state and symptoms of dementia to identify impairments in speech, memory, attention and visuospatial orientation.
Dementia Treatment: Good Clinical Practice
People describe their experience as losses that deprive them of the ability to live autonomously, independent of others. They often have difficulty with orientation, feel fear of the future and need help. Specialists support patients' quality of life and treat dementia with:
- Pharmacotherapy - the use of medications that improve cognitive functions and slow the processes of brain degeneration. Medications help control the symptoms of dementia.
- Psychosocial therapy. This is an important component of treatment. Group and individual psychotherapy sessions help patients and their families cope with emotional difficulties.
- Physical activity, which helps maintain general health and strengthen muscles. This has a positive effect on the patient's well-being and activity.
- Cognitive training. Various techniques to stimulate mental activity, as well as memory, logic and attention tasks, can be helpful.
Clinical methods of treating the signs of dementia are focused on a comprehensive approach that takes into account the medical, psychological and social aspects of the disease. This approach can help improve patients' quality of life and give them tools to cope with the challenges of dementia.
Why the Disease Occurs: Causes of Dementia
What is dementia? It is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking and social abilities. It is not a single disease. Different types of dementia can be caused by several conditions and diseases. The main causes:
- Aging. Over the years the brain loses cells, which can lead to a decline in cognitive functions.
- Brain diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, which can damage the brain.
- Genetic factors and heredity - some genes increase the risk of developing dementia.
- Head injuries, which increase the likelihood of developing dementia, especially in athletes or military personnel.
- Lifestyle - lack of physical activity, smoking and an unhealthy diet contribute to the appearance of signs of dementia.
It is important to understand that many of these factors are interrelated, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle may reduce the risks. How long people live with dementia depends on the type, the stage of the disease and individual characteristics. The disease progresses differently in everyone, but the progression of dementia, whose manifestations make it impossible to lead a normal life, may be slowed. Regular medical checkups and appropriate comprehensive treatment can help support the brain and manage the disease. A neurologist in Kyiv at CSM Clinic will perform an examination and prescribe appropriate therapy.