My Book about Brains, Change and Dementia: What is Dementia and What Does it Do?

This book is for children aged under 5 and breaks down misconceptions about dementia, using age-appropriate language in an engaging and informative way. It reassures parents of the value of open and honest conversation about the challenges raised by dementia and offers advice and support. The ending provides a question for the adult and child to ponder together.

Format: Hardback
Length: 48 pages
Publication date: 19 July 2018
Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers

Dementia is a disease that affects the brain, causing a range of symptoms and changes in behavior. It is a progressive condition that worsens over time, and there is currently no cure for dementia. However, there are ways to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

One of the most important things to understand about dementia is that it is not a normal part of aging. Dementia is caused by underlying diseases or conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, or Lewy body dementia. These diseases damage the brain cells, leading to a decline in cognitive function, memory loss, and difficulty with problem-solving and communication.

Symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the type of disease and the stage of the condition. Common symptoms include:

Memory loss: Individuals with dementia may struggle to remember recent events, names, and faces. They may also forget important information, such as their address or phone number.

Confusion: Dementia patients may become confused and disoriented, especially in unfamiliar environments. They may struggle to follow conversations or understand what others are saying.

Difficulty with problem-solving: Dementia patients may struggle with tasks that require logical reasoning and problem-solving skills, such as paying bills, managing finances, or cooking a meal.

Communication problems: Dementia patients may struggle to communicate effectively, either by speaking or writing. They may also have difficulty understanding nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions or body language.

Changes in behavior: Dementia patients may exhibit changes in behavior, such as aggression, agitation, or withdrawal. They may also lose interest in activities that they once enjoyed, such as reading or socializing.

If you suspect that someone you know has dementia, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical exam, cognitive tests, and imaging studies, to determine the type of dementia and the stage of the condition.

There are several treatment options available for dementia, depending on the type and stage of the condition. These may include:

Medications: There are several medications available that can help manage symptoms of dementia, such as memory loss, confusion, and agitation. These medications can be prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Cognitive and behavioral therapies: Cognitive and behavioral therapies can help individuals with dementia maintain their cognitive function and improve their behavior. These therapies may include memory exercises, problem-solving skills training, and socialization activities.

Supportive care: Supportive care can help individuals with dementia and their caregivers manage the symptoms and challenges of the condition. This may include assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as emotional support and counseling.

In addition to treatment, there are several things that individuals with dementia and their caregivers can do to improve the quality of life and manage the symptoms of the condition. These may include:

Creating a supportive environment: Individuals with dementia may benefit from a calm and organized environment, with clear signs and labels to help them navigate.

Maintaining a healthy diet: A healthy diet can help maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing other health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Staying physically active: Regular exercise can help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of falls, which can be a risk for individuals with dementia.

Staying socially engaged: Individuals with dementia may benefit from socialization activities, such as attending social events, joining clubs, or volunteering.

Seeking support: Individuals with dementia and their caregivers can seek support from family, friends, and support groups. There are also many resources available online, such as websites and forums, that can provide information and support.

It is important to note that dementia is a complex condition that affects individuals and their families in many different ways. It is important to approach individuals with dementia and their caregivers with compassion, understanding, and respect. By working together, we can improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers and help ensure that they receive the care and support they need.

In conclusion, dementia is a disease that affects the brain, causing a range of symptoms and changes in behavior. It is a progressive condition that worsens over time, and there is currently no cure for dementia. However, there are ways to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. By understanding the causes of dementia, seeking medical attention, and implementing treatment and supportive care options, we can help individuals with dementia and their caregivers manage the symptoms and challenges of the condition.

Weight: 302g
Dimension: 217 x 213 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785925115