When a senior or a loved one starts noticing memory problems, the first thought that springs to mind is: it’s dementia. A diagnosis of dementia is a life-changing event, and it can be a terrifying thought. Many people still carry a lot of misconceptions about this type of disease, which makes them afraid of developing it or having someone they love develop it. No wonder, then, that many seniors and their loved ones would rather put off visiting the doctor about memory concerns in the hope that the problem will just “go away.”
That’s an unwise decision, according to Michelle Pelham, Executive Director at Bridges® by EPOCH at Nashua, a memory care assisted living community in Nashua, NH.
“Waiting and hoping that the problem will go away can actually result in making the problem much worse,” she explains. “Early detection of dementia gives the individual the best chance to make lifestyle changes and receive treatment that can help slow the progression of the disease.”
It’s also possible that your or your loved one’s memory problems are not due to dementia and can be successfully treated. “Just like you would visit the doctor if you had pain or another physical ailment, it’s important to go to the doctor when you’re noticing changes in your cognitive function,” she says. “Best case scenario, it’s something that can be successfully treated and reversed. If memory issues are indeed caused by dementia, early detection can help the individual make plans for the future to ensure the highest quality of life possible.”
Michelle hopes that, as more information is uncovered about dementia and more people learn the facts instead of the misconceptions, more people will be willing to seek out the help they need earlier rather than later. “A diagnosis of a life-changing condition like dementia is hard to hear, but it can also provide a sense of relief,” she says. “Knowing what’s causing the issue and understanding what steps can be taken helps provide clarity for the future. It allows individuals and their families to plan ahead, make important decisions and enjoy life to the fullest.”
Why Early Detection Is So Important
It could be a situation that’s reversible.
There are a variety of other reasons someone may be experiencing memory issues, such as an illness, infection or drug interactions. For example, urinary tract infections (UTIs) often manifest as confusion and memory issues in seniors without showing any of the more “typical” symptoms like cloudy urine or pain while urinating. It’s important to determine if the memory loss is being caused by a non-dementia-related issue so that treatment can be given as soon as possible. Left untreated, the underlying cause of the symptoms could turn into a more serious and potentially deadly situation.
It provides control and choice.
Knowing that one has dementia sooner rather than later gives an individual the gift of time – not just to process and accept the diagnosis but also to set plans in place. In dementia’s early stages, many people can still live moderately independently and make informed decisions about their own care and future. Being diagnosed with dementia early on provides the best opportunity for individuals to put together a care plan, set financial and healthcare decisions in place, and overall gives the individual more control and choice over their own lives.
It ensures a higher quality of life throughout the progression of the disease.
Early diagnosis allows for treatments and services that can help an individual control the disease as much as possible. Besides medications, many lifestyle factors can be adopted, such as getting enough exercise, eating well, staying on top of other health conditions and improving mental health. Living a healthy life as soon as possible can lead to a much higher quality of life throughout the dementia journey.
It allows for better, more specific treatment.
“Dementia” isn’t just one disease – it’s a blanket term for a wide variety of diseases that manifest similarly. The five most common types of dementia are Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia. While these diseases all have similar symptoms, the way they are treated can differ. Early detection can help you or a loved one get the most specific treatments possible.
It gives time to make memories.
A diagnosis of dementia doesn’t mean that an individual suddenly has changed. Since it’s a progressive disease, there is still time to love, laugh, enjoy life and do meaningful things. Knowing sooner rather than later gives the individual and their family the gift of time to make every day count. A quick search online will result in countless personal stories about how a dementia diagnosis has helped make relationships with loved ones more meaningful, deeper and richer.
It provides peace of mind.
While a dementia diagnosis is scary and uncertain, peace of mind comes from knowing what’s ahead. The individual and family members can set plans in place that make sure the individual’s wishes are followed, taking that stress and confusion off the shoulders of their loved ones. Having that certainty and clarity can help all parties accept the journey ahead and move forward in the most beneficial and positive manner possible.
A Fulfilling Lifestyle
Bridges® by EPOCH at Nashua provides expert memory care within an assisted living environment that is comfortable, positive and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, our community offers a wellness-focused lifestyle that promotes dignity, independence and fulfillment in daily life.
Dedicated Memory Care
Our programs, care and services are all designed to celebrate our residents’ lives and support each resident’s individual strengths and abilities. No matter what stage of memory loss a resident may be experiencing, our memory care professionals work to maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment – making a truly positive impact on the lives of our residents every day.
Stunning, Purpose-Built Design
Featuring a stunning, purposeful design, Bridges® by EPOCH at Nashua is so much more than a beautiful place to live . . . It’s a community focused on enriching the lives of our residents and helping their families enjoy meaningful relationships with them. Our evidence-based design features, including soft paint colors, directional cues, and aromatherapy, provide a soothing and easy-to-navigate environment.
Bridges® by EPOCH is New England’s largest stand-alone memory care assisted living provider.
Contact us today to learn more.