Dementia: Dr Sara on benefits of being in nature
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There are many different types of dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being one of the most common. The number of people with dementia is increasing, perhaps because people are living longer. By 2025, Dementia UK reports more than one million people will be living with dementia in the UK.
Early diagnosis means its progression can be slowed down in some cases, so it is important to spot the signs early.
One in 14 people over the age of 65 have dementia, and the condition affects one in six people over 80.
Hilda Hayo, Dementia UK CEO explained dementia is an umbrella term for a range of conditions affecting the brain, which getgradually worse over time.
She said: “There are over 200 different typesand causes of dementia – all of which can present in varying ways and can be challenging to detectin the early stages.”
She added: “However, common symptoms of dementia includeconcentration problems, changes in short term memory,and changes in everyday living abilities.
“In some dementias affecting people under the age of 65 years, the changes are mainly in personality, social behaviour, emotions, speech and understanding, and loss of interest in daily activities.
“All of these can have a significant impact on daily life, affecting people’s ability to undertake tasks that used to be second nature to them.”
She explained this can include getting dressed, inputting their pin at an ATM, and getting lost in once familiar places.
She said: “When personality, social behaviour and emotions are affected this can lead to changes in relationships, difficulties with employment and social networks.
“If someone is exhibiting these symptoms, it’s important to visit the GP as soon as possible; they can rule out any other medical conditions and arrange further testing if necessary.
“There is no cure for dementia but spotting the signs early can enable a person to plan for their future and seek appropriate support.”
The NHS says that dementia symptoms may also include problems with language, such as using words incorrectly, or trouble speaking, as well as movement and difficulties doing daily activities.
It explains: “The symptoms of dementia usually become worse over time. In the late stage of dementia, people will not be able to take care of themselves and may lose their ability to communicate.”
The Alzheimer’s Association states: “People living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia may have problems sleeping or experience increased confusion, anxiety or agitation.”
Dementia Australia says that the early signs of dementia “are very subtle” and may not be immediately obvious.
The NHS Health Check can help find early signs and tell you if you’re at higher risk of certain health problems that can also increase your risk of dementia.
It is a free check-up of your overall health for people aged 40 to 74 who do not have heart disease, diabetes or kidney disease, and have not had a stroke, and is offered every five years.
The general rule of thumb is what is good for the heart is good for the brain.
As the NHS explains, a healthy lifestyle can also help prevent cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke and heart attacks, which are themselves risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.
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