What Is Moderate Dementia?
Many people don’t have a true understanding of what dementia is. This brain disease can be defined as “the acquired deterioration of the brain from a previously higher level of functioning that impairs the successful completion of daily tasks.” Because the change happens over a longer period of time, there are many stages of dementia that some one can be in. The middle stage of this process is called moderate dementia and also has been found to last the longest. This stage of dementia is most commonly characterized by difficulties completing daily tasks such as cooking or cleaning and needing some assistance with living.
What to Expect With Moderate Stage Dementia
During the moderate stage of dementia, the disease spreads to the frontal lobe of the brain. This section of the brain helps us with our higher level thinking. It controls our abilities to problem solve, think logically, speak, plan, take initiative and control impulses. When this portion of the brain begins to become affected by dementia, it becomes more difficult to make judgments and pay attention for extended periods of time. Other common symptoms include:
- Forgetting names
- Forgetting faces
- Unclear communication
- Not knowing the time
- Unsafety at home
- Wandering
- Unexpected anger
- Trouble with daily tasks
Treatments for Moderate Dementia
Unfortunately there is no way to actually cure dementia, but there are ways to reduce the symptoms shown during the process.
- Memantine- A drug that targets specific functions in the brain.
- Medication- medicinal remedies can reduce symptoms by adjusting chemicals that carry signals to the brain.
- Therapy- There are a number of therapies that exist (occupational, physical, music) that can improve an individual’s quality of life. As the disease progresses, a medical professional would be able to assess the need for such treatments on a case by case situation.
Dementia can pose many challenges and obstacles for people. As symptoms progress, more steps have to be taken to ensure proper care for individuals. Orchard at Athens is here to provide you and/or your loved one with the assistance you may need. Our community offers a multitude of amenities that will help you feel right at home. If you are interested in finding out more about us, please contact us.
