Dementiais a very familiar medical condition among Americans. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, around 47 million people are diagnosed with dementia, and the number can triple in 20 years. But dementia has many forms, and Lewy Body Dementia is one of them. It’s also a progressive illness following Alzheimer’s.
Also known as LBD, Lewy Body Dementia is a form of dementia triggered by protein deposits referred to as Lewy bodies. These deposits grow in the nerve endings of the brain part that is responsible for the person’s thought patterns, memory, and basic movements.
What are the symptoms of LBD?
Aside from being depressed and showing apathetic behaviors, the patient with LBD also exhibits the following:
- Sleeping troubles
The patient experiences agitations or physically acting out a dream which makes it difficult for them to achieve a quality sleep.
- Visual hallucinations
The patient may experience hallucinations, which is the prevalent symptom. They may see shapes, peoples, or animals that are not actually there. These hallucinating incidents also tend to be frequent.
- Poor body functions
Since the Lewy bodies affect the brain part regulating digestion, blood pressure, and blood flow, the patient may experience dizziness, constipation, and fall incidents.
- Cognitive troubles
Just like having Alzheimer’s, the patient may feel easily confused, experience frequent forgetfulness, and have poor focus.
- Movement troubles
Just like Parkinson’s, LBD can also trigger tremors, stiff muscles, slow movements, and other similar mobility disorders.
Who are at risk of LBD?
According to Mayo Clinic, LBD commonly affects male seniors who are at least 60 years old and those who have family members who are also diagnosed with the condition. People with family members who have Parkinson’s disease are also at risk of developing LBD.
If left unattended, LBD can complicate into aggression, depression, increased risks of falls and injuries, worsened dementia, more muscular tremors, and of course, passing on.
What can you do?
If your family member is showing the symptoms of this condition, it’s crucial for you to get them checked. A doctor’s final diagnosis can start you off into the treatment process and possibly slow down the complications. Your doctor can also recommend a home health care in Pennsylvania who can assist your loved one’s needs in your place.
If you also choose to be the primary caregiver of your family member, you still need to be covered by a non-medical home care in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania such as Angels of Care LLC. There will be other basic care needs and errands that need accomplishing even if you’re focused on caring for an unwell loved one. If you’re looking for home care services such as what we can provide, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
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