What Are Some Reversible Causes of Dementia? A Mnemonic

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How to Remember Reversible Dementia Causes A Mnemonic Device in Roseville, CA

Permanent dementia is often caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other brain and neurological disorders. However, dementia can be temporary in certain cases. Before the physician recommends a treatment plan for your senior loved one’s dementia, the cause will need to be identified. You can remember the reversible causes of dementia by using the mnemonic DEMENTIA. 

Drugs & Depression

Side effects from certain medications can lead to confusion and cognitive deficits, which can mimic the symptoms of dementia. Also, depression can lead to symptoms that may be confused with dementia. Once the offending drugs have been discontinued and depression has been treated, the dementia may resolve. 

Elderly/Aging Issues

The natural aging process can cause dementia that may be reversible. For example, many elderly individuals experience sundowning, which causes confusion and temporary signs of dementia when the sun goes down. Gently redirecting your loved one may provide the reassurance he or she needs to regain lucidity. 

Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Rocklin live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional live-in caregivers from Home Care Assistance to enhance his or her quality of life. 

Multi-Infarct Disease & Medication

If your loved one has had a stroke or transient ischemic attack (otherwise known as a TIA), memory and other cognitive functions may be impaired. Medications prescribed after a stroke, such as those used to manage high blood pressure, may also lead to reversible dementia and cognitive problems. After completing stroke rehabilitation and getting used to medication, cognitive function may return. 

Environmental Issues

Factors such as moving to a long-term care facility or a new apartment may lead to confusion and dementia-like symptoms. Once your loved one has acclimated to his or her new surroundings, cognitive function may return. 

Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies can cause memory problems and confusion. For example, if your loved one is deficient in vitamin C, any of the B vitamins, vitamin D, or magnesium, brain function may decrease, causing confusion, memory lapses, and even anxiety. Once the nutritional deficiencies have been corrected, cognition and brain function may return to normal. 

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but compassionate help is available. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of homecare families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

Toxins

Exposure to toxins such as those in cleaning products and pesticides may impair brain function. If your loved one has respiratory problems such as emphysema or asthma, inhaling chemicals may cause shortness of breath or hyperventilation. Both of these conditions can lead to an unhealthy gaseous exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. When this happens, your loved one may become confused and exhibit signs of dementia. Once toxins have been removed from the environment, your loved one will breathe better, and the signs of dementia should diminish. 

Ischemia

Ischemia means a part of the body has been deprived of its blood supply, which can interfere with cerebral function, causing memory deficits, confusion, and dementia. After the cause of ischemia has been determined, an effective treatment plan can be implemented to restore circulation. Once blood supply has been reestablished, the signs of dementia should resolve. 

Alcohol

Consuming too much alcohol can lead to intoxication, and if your loved one drinks too much over long periods, brain and liver function may decrease. When this happens, cognitive deficits and confusion may develop, resembling dementia symptoms. Once your loved one has stopped drinking, unusual behaviors may also subside. 

A highly trained caregiver with experience in caring for seniors with dementia can be a fantastic resource for family members. Families looking for top-rated Rocklin elder care providers can reach out to Home Care Assistance. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your loved one, call us at (916) 226-3737 today.

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