DEMENTIA
Aging Together's supports dementia education and awareness around our 5-county region. Learn how you or your organization can be supportive of those living with dementia and thier caregivers.
Many businesses in our region have taken staff training to be Dementia Friendly, meaning they provide a welcoming environment for those living with dementia and their caregivers.
Aging Together shares resources for those living with dementia, their families, and caregivers. Scroll down this page for more information.
DEMENTIA SUPPORT
Dementia Defined
Dementia Defined
Dementia is an overall term for diseases and conditions characterized by a decline in memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking skills that affect a person's ability to perform everyday activities. Memory loss is a example. Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia. - Alzheimer's Association
Often when one thinks about dementia they relate it to Alzheimer's Disease, which is one of the leading causes. That's because, according to the Alzheimer's Association, 5.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's. But there are many causes of dementia.
Some other causes of dementia include Parkinson's Disease, Lewy Body's Disease, Vascular Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), head injuries, infections, thyroid issues, vitamin deficiencies, and more.
Resources: Alzheimer's Association, Parkinson's Foundation, Lewy Body Dementia Association, National Institute on Aging, Mayo Clinic
Symptoms of Dementia
Though there are times when a person might experience symptoms of dementia that can be reversed with proper help, most forms of dementia, like Alzheimer's, are not reversible.
The Alzheimer's Association lists the following 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's Disease:
- Memory changes that disrupt daily life
- Challenges in planning or problem solving
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spacial relationships
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgement
- Withdrawel from work or social activities
- Changes in mood and personality
Though Alzheimer's is not the only cause of dementia, the warning signs may be similar to other diseases. Getting help from a doctor early on can help with early detection and support for dementia.
Resources: Alzheimer's Association, CDC
VIRGINIA DEMENTIA ROADMAP
The VA Dementia Roadmap is a publication of the Virginia Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Commission and the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services. It is a guide for people impacted by dementia.
GENERATIONS CENTRAL ADULT DAY CENTER
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RESPITE SUPPORT
Respite is temporary relief from duties for caregivers, ranging from several hours to days. It might be provided in-home or in a residential care facility. Respite allows a caregiver to take a break and get away, maybe for a doctor appointment, grocery shopping or a weekend getaway with family. There are organizations that offer limited funding specifically to help caregivers pay for someone to be with their loved one, and care for them, while they are away.
