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Types Of Dementia II: Dementia With Lewy Bodies

Jul 26, 2022

It's critical for family members and loved ones to understand the different forms of dementia to provide the best senior care possible. Dementia is a general term for symptoms that result in a decline in cognitive abilities.


This post will take a closer look at what causes Lewy body dementia and its wide range of associated symptoms. We'll also discuss how to manage this condition best.



Understanding Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy body dementia (LBD) it's caused by abnormal protein deposits called alpha-synuclein in the brain. These deposits affect chemicals in the brain whose changes, in turn, can lead to cognitive-behavioral, mood, and motor problems. This form of dementia can generate a wide range of symptoms, including memory loss, confusion, hallucinations, and motor alterations.


Symptoms

People with LBD may not experience all of the symptoms associated with it. Read on to find the signs and symptoms related to it below:


Cognitive Symptoms Of Lewy Body Dementia

LBD causes changes in thinking abilities. These changes may include:

  • Visual hallucinations.
  • Lack of focus.
  • Severe cognitive ability loss.


Movement Problems &Lewy Body Dementia

Some individuals with LBD may not have experienced significant mobility difficulties for many years. Others notice them early on. Movement problems, such as a change in writing style, may be minor and easy to overlook at first. Movement issues include:

  • Muscle rigidity or stiffness.
  • Shuffling walk, slow movement, or frozen stance.
  • Tremor or shaking, very similar to Parkinson's.
  • Balance problems and repeated falls.
  • Uncoordinated movements.
  • Smaller handwriting than was usual for the person.
  • Diminished facial expression.
  • Difficulty swallowing.


Lewy Body Dementia & Sleep

Sleep disorders are prevalent in those with LBD, yet they're frequently overlooked. A sleep specialist can help you determine and treat any sleep issues. Sleep-related troubles that occur in persons with LBD may include:

  • REM (Rapid eye movement) sleep behavior disorder
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Insomnia
  • Restless leg syndrome



Risk Factors & Getting Medical Advice

The cause of LBD is unknown, but scientists are learning more about its biology and genetics. So far, we know that an accumulation of Lewy bodies is associated with a loss of specific neurons in the brain. They're responsible for 2 necessary chemicals acting as messengers between brain cells (neurotransmitters). 


One of these messengers, acetylcholine, is essential for memory and learning. The other, dopamine, plays a vital role in behavior, cognition, movement, motivation, sleep, and mood. As with any other type of dementia, medical advice is key to improving the quality of life for those living with it. Also, professional dementia aging care services represent a great aid.




Improve Your Quality Of Life With Elder Care Homecare In-Home Senior Care In New York

If you're an elder with LBD or caring for someone who is, know that you're not alone. Many people are living with this or another type of dementia and receiving the care and support they need to maintain their quality of life. Elder Care Homecare has extensive experience in dementia senior home care, working with elders who have LBD.


Our nurses and caregivers at Elder Care Homecare will help them accomplish their daily activities and ensure they're comfortable and safe. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or would like to book our services!


CONTACT US NOW!


Need Care For You or Your Loved One? 
We Can Help!

Call Us Today: (914) 268-6221

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