A loved one’s struggle with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia may have encouraged you to learn more about these issues. That’s something the health experts at Mille Lacs Health System can help you with. The elderly care providers at this Onamia, MN-based facility share some useful information to help you distinguish between Alzheimer’s and other dementia types.

Elderly Care Experts on Dementia

Dementia involves a group of symptoms and affects the brain's ability to think or remember clearly. It may also impact a person’s decision-making ability and can make it difficult for them to regulate their emotions. Bear in mind that dementia doesn't refer to momentary memory lapses, like someone’s name or phone number.

In general, those suffering from dementia are likely to struggle with at least two of the following factors:

• Memory
• Clear communication
• Logic and reasoning
• Concentration
• Separating reality from perception

Many types of dementia are marked by similar symptoms, so it may take a while for the family health care provider to reach an accurate diagnosis. Keep a tab on all the signs your loved one displays to help the doctor analyze the case and address your loved one’s symptoms accordingly.

Family Health Care Experts Explain Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s Disease is the most commonly reported type of dementia, affecting up to 80% of patients. This condition progresses over time and mostly affects those over 65 years of age. The onset of this disease is caused by protein and fiber buildup in the brain, which leads to damaged nerve cells. The blockage of nerve signals is what results in your loved one when they display the signs of dementia.

While it's hard to say with certainty if a person has Alzheimer’s, elderly care specialists rely on certain language, memory, and vision tests to reach a diagnosis. They may also run an MRI to capture detailed images of the brain and get a clear idea of an individual’s condition. Although there’s currently no cure for this condition, promising studies show that there are ways to delay its onset and slow its progression.

The healthcare facility also has a geriatric psychiatry unit which offers short-term evaluation and care of seniors with acute mental health needs. With a trusted facility like Mille Lacs Health System at your service, you know that your loved one’s health is in good hands. For further information about the health solutions MLHS offers, call (320) 532-3154 or visit their website.