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What is Dementia?
Senior fraud

One of the biggest types of financial fraud targeting seniors is imposter scams. These scams often involve fraudsters impersonating a trusted individual or institution to manipulate seniors into providing personal information or transferring money. Here are a few common variations:

1. Grandparent Scams:

The scammer pretends to be a grandchild in distress, claiming they need money urgently due to an emergency like being in jail or stranded in another country. They often plead with the elderly person not to tell anyone else.

2. Government Impersonation Scams:

Scammers claim to be from government agencies like the IRS, Social Security Administration, or Medicare. They threaten arrest or other legal action if the senior doesn’t pay a supposed debt or provide personal information.

3. Tech Support Scams:

Fraudsters pose as tech support representatives from well-known companies, claiming there are issues with the senior’s computer. They may ask for remote access to fix the problem and then charge for unnecessary or fraudulent services.

4. Lottery and Sweepstakes Scams:

Seniors are told they’ve won a lottery or sweepstakes but need to pay a fee or taxes upfront to claim their prize. These often come via phone call, mail, or email.

5. Romance Scams:

Using online dating sites or social media, scammers cultivate romantic relationships with seniors, eventually asking for money for travel expenses, medical emergencies, or other fabricated reasons.

6. Financial Exploitation by Family Members or Caregivers:

Unfortunately, financial abuse can also come from trusted individuals such as family members or caregivers who misuse their access to the senior’s funds.

If a senior or anyone suspects they’re being targeted or have fallen victim to a financial scam, there are several organizations they can contact for help. Here are the key resources:

1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC):

– Report Fraud: Visit the FTC’s website at [reportfraud.ftc.gov] to file a complaint online.

– Phone Number: 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357)

2. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB):

– Submit a Complaint: Visit [consumerfinance.gov] to file a complaint regarding financial products or services.

– Phone Number: 1-855-411-CFPB (1-855-411-2372)

3. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC):

– For investment-related fraud, visit the SEC’s [Office of Investor Education and Advocacy] to submit a complaint.

4. Adult Protective Services (APS):

– APS agencies vary by state, but they help investigate reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults. Contact your local APS through the eldercare locator at [eldercare.acl.gov] or call 1-800-677-1116.

5. State Attorney General’s Office:

– Most states have a dedicated consumer protection division within the Attorney General’s Office that handles fraud complaints. Visit your state’s Attorney General’s website or call their consumer protection hotline.

6. Local Law Enforcement:

– If the scam involves immediate danger or a large financial loss, report it to the local police or sheriff’s office. This step can also help create a formal record of the incident..

7. AARP Fraud Watch Network:

– AARP provides resources and support for preventing and recovering from fraud. Visit the [AARP Fraud Watch Network] or call their helpline at 1-877-908-3360.

8. Financial Institution:

– Contact the bank, credit card company, or other financial institution involved. They may offer protections or be able to halt certain transactions.

9. Identity Theft Resource Center:

– For cases involving identity theft, visit the Identity Theft Resource Center’s website at [idtheftcenter.org] or call 1-888-400-5530.

Encourage seniors to act quickly if they suspect they’ve been scammed, as timely action can increase the chances of recovering funds and preventing further loss. If you’re looking for advice on how to recognize signs of fraud or tips to help protect seniors from these scams, feel free to ask!

Tips for Aging in Place
1. Physical Health
  1. Regular Exercise: Engage in moderate physical activities like walking, swimming, or yoga to maintain mobility, strength, and cardiovascular health.
  2. Healthy Eating: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can lead to various health issues, including kidney problems and fatigue.
  4. Routine Check-ups: Keep up with regular doctor visits to monitor your health and manage any chronic conditions.
  5. Sleep Well: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. Good sleep is essential for physical and mental well-being.
Physical Benefits of Exercise
  1. Improved Cardiovascular Health:

    2. – Heart Health: Regular exercise strengthens the heart muscle, improving its efficiency and reducing the risk of heart disease.

    – Circulation: Exercise improves blood circulation, helping to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke.

  2. Enhanced Strength and Flexibility:

    3. – Muscle Maintenance: Engaging in strength training or resistance exercises helps maintain muscle mass, which naturally declines with age.

    – Flexibility: Stretching exercises like yoga can help maintain flexibility and range of motion, reducing the risk of injuries and improving overall mobility.

  3. Better Bone Health:

    4. – Bone Density: Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, dancing, and resistance training can help maintain and even increase bone density, lowering the risk of osteoporosis.

  4. Weight Management:

    5. – Metabolism Boost: Regular physical activity can boost metabolism, helping to maintain a healthy weight and reducing the risk of obesity-related conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.

  5. Improved Balance and Coordination:

    6. – Fall Prevention: Exercises that improve balance and coordination, such as tai chi, can significantly reduce the risk of falls, a common concern for older adults.

Mental Health Benefits
  1. Cognitive Function:

    2. – Brain Health: Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and encourages the release of chemicals that enhance brain function. It can help maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

  2. Mood Enhancement:

    3. – Endorphin Release:Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones, which can relieve stress and promote a positive outlook.

    – Reduction in Anxiety and Depression: Exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving overall mental well-being.

Social Benefits
  1. Social Interaction:

    2. – Group Activities: Participating in group exercise classes or walking groups can provide social interaction, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

  2. Community Involvement:

    3. – Sense of Belonging:Engaging in community sports or fitness programs can foster a sense of belonging and support.

Long-term Benefits
  1. Increased Longevity:

    2. – Longevity: Regular exercise is associated with increased lifespan and a higher quality of life in later years.

  2. Enhanced Daily Functioning:

    3. – Independence:Maintaining strength, balance, and flexibility through exercise can enhance day-to-day functioning, allowing for greater independence in activities of daily living.

Practical Tips for Incorporating Exercise
  1. Start Small:

    2. Even short bouts of activity, such as a 10-minute walk, can be beneficial. Gradually increase the duration and intensity as your fitness improves.

  2. Mix It Up:

    3. Include a variety of activities to address different aspects of fitness—cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, and balance.

  3. Make It Fun:

    4. Choose activities you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, gardening, or playing with grandchildren. Enjoyable activities are more likely to become a regular part of your routine.

  4. Set Realistic Goals:

    5. Set achievable goals and celebrate milestones to stay motivated.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have existing health conditions or concerns. Tailor your exercise routine to your abilities and preferences to make it sustainable and enjoyable.

2. Mental Health
  1. Mental Stimulation: Keep your mind active with puzzles, reading, learning new skills, or even playing musical instruments.
  2. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or tai chi.
  3. Stay Socially Active: Maintain relationships with friends and family. Join clubs or community groups to stay connected.
  4. Seek Help if Needed: Don’t hesitate to talk to a healthcare provider if you feel symptoms of depression or anxiety.

Recognizing depression in older adults can sometimes be challenging because the symptoms may overlap with other medical conditions or be attributed to the natural aging process. Additionally, older adults may be less likely to acknowledge feelings of depression or seek help. Here are some signs and symptoms to look out for:

How to Help an Older Adult with Depression
  1. Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness: Feeling sad, empty, or tearful most of the time, with no clear reason.
  2. Loss of Interest: A noticeable loss of interest or pleasure in activities and hobbies that were once enjoyable.
  3. Irritability and Anxiety: Increased irritability, agitation, or anxiety that is out of character.
Physical Symptoms
  1. Changes in Appetite or Weight: Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite without a clear physical cause.
  2. Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, waking up very early, or excessive sleeping. Poor sleep quality can also be a sign.
  3. Fatigue and Low Energy: Persistent tiredness, lack of energy, and feeling physically drained even after restful sleep.
Cognitive Symptoms
  1. Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, remembering details, or making decisions.
  2. Confusion and Memory Issues: Memory problems that are out of the ordinary and more pronounced than typical age-related changes.
Social Symptoms
  1. Social Withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions, declining invitations, and a general withdrawal from friends, family, and activities.
  2. Neglect of Responsibilities: Not keeping up with routine tasks or personal responsibilities, such as paying bills or attending appointments.
Behavioral Changes
  1. Self-Isolation: Spending an unusual amount of time alone and withdrawing from daily activities.
  2. Increased Use of Alcohol or Drugs:Turning to substances as a coping mechanism.
Other Warning Signs
  1. Physical Complaints: Frequent complaints of unexplained aches and pains, such as headaches, stomach pain, or other discomforts that don’t have a clear medical cause.
  2. Slow Movement or Speech: Noticeably slower movements or speech patterns.
  3. Restlessness: Fidgeting, pacing, or an inability to sit still.
  4. Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Excessive guilt, feelings of worthlessness, or self-reproach over past events.
  5. Thoughts of Death or Suicide: Expressing thoughts about death, dying, or suicidal ideation. This is an urgent red flag and requires immediate attention.
Factors Contributing to Depression in Aging

– Medical Conditions: Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and chronic pain can contribute to depression.

– Medications: Some medications have side effects that can mimic or contribute to depression.

– Life Changes: Major life changes, such as bereavement, retirement, and loss of independence, can trigger depressive symptoms.

– Social Isolation: Reduced social interactions and loneliness can play a significant role.

  1. Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication. Listen without judgment and validate their feelings.
  2. Seek Professional Help: Incourage them to see a healthcare provider or mental health professional for an evaluation and potential treatment.
  3. Stay Connected: Help them stay engaged with social activities, family gatherings, and community events.
  4. Promote Physical Activity: Encourage regular physical exercise, which can help improve mood and overall health.
  5. Monitor Medications:Ensure they are taking prescribed medications correctly and consult a healthcare provider about any potential side effects.
Professional Interventions
  1. Therapy: Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be highly effective for treating depression in older adults.
  2. Medication: Antidepressants may be prescribed, but it’s crucial to have a healthcare provider monitor for any side effects or interactions with other medications.
  3. Support Groups: Joining support groups can provide a sense of community and understanding among peers facing similar challenges.

Recognizing the signs early and seeking appropriate help can significantly improve the quality of life for older adults experiencing depression. Always approach the subject with empathy and understanding, and prioritize their mental and emotional well-being.

3. Nutrition
  1. Balanced Diet: Ensure you’re getting all the essential vitamins and minerals. Consider taking a multivitamin if recommended by your doctor.
  2. Monitor Bone Health: Include calcium-rich foods like dairy products or fortified plant-based milk, and ensure adequate Vitamin D intake to maintain bone density.
  3. Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to maintain a healthy weight.

Gut health plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of individuals at any age, but it becomes especially important as we age due to several factors that affect the digestive system and general health. Here’s why gut health is so vital for older adults:

1. Optimal Nutrient Absorption

– Digestion Efficiency: As we age, the efficiency of the digestive system can decline. This can affect the body’s ability to break down and absorb nutrients essential for maintaining health.

– Nutrient Deficiency Prevention: Good gut health ensures that vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients from food are effectively absorbed, which is critical for preventing nutrient deficiencies that can exacerbate age-related health issues.

2. Immune System Support

– Gut Microbiota: A large portion of the immune system is located in the gut. A healthy gut microbiota helps maintain a balanced immune response and protects against infections.

– Inflammation Control: A well-functioning gut can help control systemic inflammation, which is linked to many age-related diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and even certain cancers.

3. Mental Health and Cognitive Function

– Gut-Brain Axis: The gut is closely connected to the brain through the gut-brain axis, which involves biochemical signaling between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system.

– Mood Regulation: Gut health affects the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which can influence mood and mental health. Poor gut health can contribute to anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline.

4. Prevention of Digestive Disorders

– Conditions Like Constipation: Older adults are more prone to digestive issues such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and diverticulitis. Maintaining gut health through diet and hydration can help manage and prevent these conditions.

5. Reducing Risks of Chronic Diseases

– Metabolic Health: A healthy gut microbiome can help regulate metabolism and reduce the risk of metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes and obesity.

– Cardiovascular Health: Some beneficial gut bacteria produce substances that can reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure, contributing to better heart health.

6. Enhanced Energy Levels

– Efficient Digestion: When the gut is healthy and digestion is efficient, older adults tend to experience better energy levels and overall vitality.

– Reduced Fatigue: Proper nutrient absorption and a balanced microbiome help prevent fatigue that can result from poor digestion or intestinal imbalances.

7. Support for Healthy Aging

– Healthy Microbiome Diversity: A diverse and balanced gut microbiome is associated with healthy aging. It can help combat the negative effects of age-related changes in the body.

– Slower Aging Processes: Some studies suggest that maintaining gut health can slow down certain aging processes and improve the quality of life.

How to Maintain Gut Health as You Age
  1. Balanced Diet: Eat a diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Incorporate fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi to promote beneficial gut bacteria.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help with digestion and maintain gut health.
  3. Probiotics and Prebiotics: Consider probiotics and prebiotics through food or supplements to support a healthy microbiome.
  4. Regular Physical Activity: Exercise can help promote healthy digestion and gut motility.
  5. Limit Processed Foods: Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats, which can negatively impact gut health.
  6. Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques like yoga, meditation, or mindfulness, as stress can adversely affect gut health.
  7. Regular Check-ups: Maintain regular medical check-ups to monitor and manage any digestive health issues.

By focusing on gut health, older adults can significantly enhance their overall health, maintain independence, and improve their quality of life as they age.

4. Safety

Ensuring the safety of older adults is paramount, as they may be more vulnerable to certain risks due to age-related changes in physical health, cognitive function, and sensory abilities. Here are some of the biggest safety issues with the elderly, along with strategies to mitigate them:

1. Falls
Issues:

– Reduced balance and gait stability

– Decreased muscle strength

– Poor vision

– Side effects from medications

Strategies:

– Home Modifications: Install grab bars in bathrooms, use non-slip mats, improve lighting, and remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and clutter.

– Exercise Programs: Encourage balance and strength training exercises such as tai chi or yoga.

– Vision Check-ups: Regular eye exams to update prescriptions and monitor eye health.

– Proper Footwear: Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes that provide good support.

2. Medication Management
Issues:

– Polypharmacy (taking multiple medications)

– Difficulty in remembering or following medication schedules

– Risk of interactions and side effects

Strategies:

– Medication Review: Regularly review medications with a healthcare provider or pharmacist.

– Pill Organizers: Use pillboxes with compartments for days of the week and times of the day.

– Reminders: Set up reminders using alarms, smartphone apps, or family support.

3. Fire Hazards
Issues:

– Forgetting to turn off the stove or oven

– Unsafe use of heating devices

– Improper use of electrical appliances

Strategies:

– Fire Safety Devices: Install smoke detectors and ensure they are in working order.

– Automatic Shut-Off: Use appliances with automatic shut-off features.

– Safety Education: Educate on the importance of turning off appliances and safe cooking practices.

4. Financial Exploitation and Scams
Issues:

– Targeted by scammers or fraudsters

– Mismanagement of finances

– Identity theft

Strategies:

– Awareness: Educate about common scams and how to recognize them.

– Financial Monitoring: Regularly monitor bank statements and financial accounts for suspicious activity.

– Trustworthy Advisors: Use trusted financial advisors and involve family members in financial decisions if necessary.

5. Social Isolation and Loneliness
Issues:

– Reduced social interactions leading to loneliness and depression

– Increased risk of mental health issues

Strategies:

– Regular Contact: Stay connected with family and friends through regular phone calls, video chats, or visits.

– Community Involvement: Encourage participation in community groups, clubs, or senior centers.

– Use of Technology: Teach older adults to use technology to stay connected and access social support networks.

6. Cognitive Impairments
Issues:

– Confusion and memory loss

– Wandering, which can lead to getting lost or injured

Strategies:

– Supervision: Supervise or have a caregiver check in regularly.

– GPS Devices: Use wearable GPS devices for individuals prone to wandering.

– Safe Environment: Create a safe and familiar living environment to reduce confusion and anxiety.

7. Nutritional Deficiencies
Issues:

– Difficulty in preparing meals

– Loss of appetite or forgetting to eat

– Financial constraints affecting food choices

Strategies:

– Meal Services: Use meal delivery services that provide balanced meals.

– Supplemental Nutrition: Incorporate nutritional supplements if needed, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

– Easy-to-Prepare Foods: Stock up on healthy, easy-to-prepare foods, and snacks.

8. Home Safety
Issues:

– Inadequate home maintenance leading to hazards

– Unsafe living conditions

Strategies:

– Regular Inspections: Conduct regular home safety inspections to identify and fix hazards.

– Assistive Devices: Install handrails, ramps, and other assistive devices.

– Emergency Plans: Develop and practice emergency evacuation plans.

9. Driving Safety
Issues:

– Decline in vision, hearing, and reaction times

– Medication side effects affecting driving ability

Strategies:

– Regular Assessments: Regularly evaluate driving ability with a healthcare provider.

– Alternative Transportation: Use public transportation, ridesharing services, or community transport options.

– Reorientation Programs: Participate in driving refresher courses designed for older adults.

10. Elder Abuse and Neglect
Issues:

– Physical, emotional, or financial abuse by caregivers or family members

– Self-neglect

Strategies:

– Awareness and Education: Educate about the signs of abuse and how to report it.

– Trusted Caregivers: Use trusted and vetted caregivers, and consider using professional caregiving services if needed.

– Support Systems: Establish a supportive network of family, friends, and healthcare xproviders who can regularly check on the older adult’s well-being.

Addressing these safety issues involves a combination of education, awareness, preventive measures, and regular monitoring. Ensuring a supportive environment and access to resources can significantly enhance the safety and quality of life for elderly individuals.

5. Financial Wellness
  1. Financial Planning: Make sure you have a budget and keep an eye on your finances. Consider consulting a financial advisor to ensure your financial health.
  2. Protect Against Scams: Be cautious with personal information and aware of common scams targeting older adults.

Protecting seniors against scams involves a combination of education, awareness, preventive measures, and support systems. Here are practical steps and strategies to help seniors stay safe from scammers:

The best way to protect seniors against financial fraudsters, and scammers is as educational awareness and telephone safety.

1. Education and Awareness

– Learn About Common Scams: Familiarize yourself with common types of scams targeting seniors, such as phishing emails, telephone scams, fake lotteries, investment fraud, and identity theft.

– Stay Informed: Follow reliable sources for updates on new scams. Organizations like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or AARP often provide alerts and information on current scams.

2. Telephone Safety

– Caller ID Verification: Use caller ID to screen calls. Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers, and let them go to voicemail.

– Do Not Share Personal Information: Never share personal information, financial details, or social security numbers over the phone, especially if unsolicited.

– Register with the Do Not Call List: Register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce telemarketing calls.

By implementing these strategies, seniors can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to scams and maintain their financial and personal security. Education, vigilance, and support systems are key components in safeguarding against these threats.

6. Mobility

The number one concern for seniors with mobility issues are falls, and the fear of falling with a litany of negative consequences. The major concern with falling is the high incidents of fractures and head injuries with a direct results of a loss of functionality.

Footwear and assistive devices are imperative in the aging populations mobility. Home modifications, like removing throw rugs and trip hazards are a must. The installation of grab bars and handrails greatly reduce falls and empower seniors to move around safely. Getting a physical therapist and to help improve strength I’m flexibility which in turn greatly improves balance.

Using a medical alert device in the event of a fall is imperative. An emergency preparedness for hurricanes and times when seniors need to take shelter plan is necessary.

What are the Different Types of Dementia?
Dementias can be classified in a variety of ways and are often grouped by what they have in common, such as what part of the brain is affected, or whether they worsen over time (progressive dementias). Types of dementias that worsen over time include: Alzheimer’s disease. In people age 65 and older, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. People generally may develop symptoms after age 60, but some people may have early-onset forms of the disease, often as the result of a defective gene. Although in most cases the exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease isn’t known, plaques and tangles are often found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. Plaques are clumps of a protein called beta-amyloid, and tangles are fibrous tangles made up of tau protein. Alzheimer’s disease usually progresses slowly over seven to 10 years. Your cognitive abilities slowly decline. Eventually, the affected areas of your brain don’t work properly, including parts of your brain that control memory, language, judgment and spatial abilities. Lewy body dementia. Lewy body dementia affects approximately 10 to 22 percent of people with dementia, making it one of the most common types of dementia. Lewy body dementia becomes more common with age. Lewy bodies are abnormal clumps of protein that have been found in the brains of people with Lewy body dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Lewy body dementia symptoms are similar to symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Its unique features include fluctuations between confusion and clear thinking (lucidity), visual hallucinations, and tremor and rigidity (Parkinsonism). People with Lewy body dementia often have a condition called rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder that involves acting out dreams. Vascular dementia. Vascular dementia, the second most common type of dementia, occurs as a result of brain damage due to reduced or blocked blood flow in blood vessels leading to your brain. Blood vessel problems may be caused by stroke, infection of a heart valve (endocarditis) or other blood vessel (vascular) conditions. Symptoms usually start suddenly and often occur in people with high blood pressure or people who have had strokes or heart attacks in the past. Several different types of vascular dementia exist, and the types have different causes and symptoms. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias also may be present at the same time as this dementia. Frontotemporal dementia. This less common cause of dementia tends to occur at a younger age than does Alzheimer’s disease, generally between the ages of 40 and 65. This is a group of diseases characterized by the breakdown (degeneration) of nerve cells in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, the areas generally associated with personality, behavior and language. Signs and symptoms of frontotemporal dementia can include inappropriate behaviors, language problems, difficulty with thinking and concentration, and movement problems. As with other dementias, the cause isn’t known, although in some cases this dementia is related to certain genetic mutations. Other disorders linked to dementia Huntington’s disease. This inherited disease causes certain nerve cells in your brain and spinal cord to waste away. Signs and symptoms usually appear during your 30s or 40s. People may experience personality changes, such as irritability or anxiety. The condition causes a severe decline in thinking (cognitive) skills over time. Huntington’s disease also causes weakness and difficulty with walking and movement. Traumatic brain injury. This condition is caused by repetitive head trauma, such as experienced by boxers, football players or soldiers. Depending on the part of the brain injured, this condition can cause dementia signs and symptoms such as uncoordinated movement and impaired speech, as well as slow movement, tremors and rigidity (Parkinsonism). Symptoms may not appear until many years after the actual trauma. A person who has experienced a single traumatic head injury could develop a similar condition called post-traumatic dementia, which may cause symptoms such as long-term memory problems. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. This rare brain disorder usually occurs in people without risk factors. This condition may be due to an abnormal form of a protein. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease sometimes may be inherited or caused by exposure to diseased brain or nervous system tissue. Signs and symptoms of this fatal condition usually appear around age 60 and initially include problems with coordination, memory, thinking and vision. Symptoms worsen over time and may include the inability to move or talk, blindness, or infections. Source: www.MayoClinic.com
What are the Warning Signs of Dementia?
The symptoms of dementia vary, depending on the type of disease causing it. If someone is exhibiting these symptoms, the person should check out his or her concerns with a healthcare professional. Awareness of these warning signs is not a substitute for a structured screening or consultation with a primary care provider. Relying on memory helpers, trouble finding words, struggling to complete familiar actions, Confusion about time, place or people, Misplacing familiar objects, onset of new depression or irritability, making bad decisions, personality changes, loss of interest in important responsibilities, seeing or hearing things, expressing false beliefs. Source: www.alzfdn.org
What is Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 50 to 80 percent of dementia cases. Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, although the greatest known risk factor is increasing age, and the majority of people with Alzheimer’s are 65 and older. But Alzheimer’s is not just a disease of old age. Up to 5 percent of people with the disease have early onset Alzheimer’s (also known as younger-onset), which often appears when someone is in their 40’s or 50’s. Alzheimer’s worsens over time. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, where dementia symptoms gradually worsen over a number of years. In its early stages, memory loss is mild, but with late-stage Alzheimer’s, individuals lose the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to their environment. Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Those with Alzheimer’s live an average of eight years after their symptoms become noticeable to others, but survival can range from four to 20 years, depending on age and other health conditions. Alzheimer’s has no current cure, but treatments for symptoms are available and research continues. Although current Alzheimer’s treatments cannot stop Alzheimer’s from progressing, they can temporarily slow the worsening of dementia symptoms and improve quality of life for those with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. Today, there is a worldwide effort under way to find better ways to treat the disease, delay its onset, and prevent it from developing. Source: www.alz.org
What are the Top 7 Alzheimer’s Myths?
Myth 1: Memory loss is a natural part of aging. Reality: As people age, it’s normal to have occasional memory problems, such as forgetting the name of a person you’ve recently met. However, Alzheimer’s is more than occasional memory loss. It’s a disease that causes brain cells to malfunction and ultimately die. When this happens, an individual may forget the name of a longtime friend or what roads to take to return to a home they’ve lived in for decades. It can be difficult to tell normal memory problems from memory problems that should be a cause for concern. The Alzheimer’s Association has developed information to help you tell the difference. If you or a loved one has memory problems or other problems with thinking and learning that concern you, contact a physician. Sometimes the problems are caused by medication side effects, vitamin deficiencies or other conditions and can be reversed with treatment. The memory and thinking problems may also be caused by another type of dementia. Myth 2: Alzheimer’s disease is not fatal. Reality: Alzheimer’s disease has no survivors. It destroys brain cells and causes memory changes, erratic behaviors and loss of body functions. It slowly and painfully takes away a person’s identity, ability to connect with others, think, eat, talk, walk and find his or her way home. Myth 3: Only older people can get Alzheimer’s. Reality: Alzheimer’s can strike people in their 30s, 40s and even 50s. This is called younger-onset Alzheimer’s. It is estimated that there are more than 5 million people living with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. This includes 5.2 million people age 65 and older and 200,000 people younger than age 65 with younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Myth 4: Drinking out of aluminum cans or cooking in aluminum pots and pans can lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Reality: During the 1960s and 1970s, aluminum emerged as a possible suspect in Alzheimer’s. This suspicion led to concern about exposure to aluminum through everyday sources such as pots and pans, beverage cans, antacids and antiperspirants. Since then, studies have failed to confirm any role for aluminum in causing Alzheimer’s. Experts today focus on other areas of research, and few believe that everyday sources of aluminum pose any threat. Myth 5: Aspartame causes memory loss. Reality: This artificial sweetener, marketed under such brand names as NutraSweet and Equal, was approved by the U.S. food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in all foods and beverages in 1996. Since approval, concerns about aspartame’s health effects have been raised. According to the FDA, as of May 2006, the agency had not been presented with any scientific evidence that would lead to change its conclusions on the safety of aspartame for most people. The agency says its conclusions are based on more than 100 laboratory and clinical studies. Read the May 2006 FDA statement about aspartame. Myth 6: Flu shots increase risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Reality: A theory linking flu shots to a greatly increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease has been proposed by a U.S. doctor whose license was suspended by the South Carolina Board of Medical Examiners. Several mainstream studies link flu shots and other vaccinations to a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease and overall better health. A Nov. 27, 2001, Canadian Medical Journal report suggests older adults who were vaccinated against diphtheria or tetanus, polio, and influenza seemed to have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than those not receiving these vaccinations. The full text of this report is posted on the journal’s Web site. A report in the Nov. 3, 2004, JAMA found that annual flu shots for older adults were associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes. The abstract of that report is posted on PubMed. Myth 7: Silver dental fillings increase risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Reality: According to the best available scientific evidence, there is no relationship between silver dental fillings and Alzheimer’s. The concern that there could be a link arose because “silver” fillings are made of an amalgam (mixture) that typically contains about 50 percent mercury, 35 percent silver and 15 percent tin. Mercury is a heavy metal that, in certain forms, is known to be toxic to the brain and other organs. Many scientists consider the studies below compelling evidence that dental amalgam is not a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s. Public health agencies, including the FDA, the U.S. Public Health Service and the World Health Organization, endorse the continued use of amalgam as safe, strong, inexpensive material for dental restorations. March 1991, the Dental Devices Panel of the FDA concluded there was no current evidence that amalgam poses any danger. Myth 8: There are treatments available to stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Reality: At this time, there is no treatment to cure, delay or stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. FDA-approved drugs temporarily slow worsening of symptoms for about 6 to 12 months, on average, for about half of the individuals who take them. Source: www.alz.org
What are the Statistics for Accidental Falls Among Elderly?
Unintentional falls are the leading cause of injury death among Florida residents ages 65 years and older and the fourth leading cause of injury death overall. In addition, falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injuryrelated hospital admissions in Florida. In 2011, 2,295 residents were fatally injured in a fall; there were an additional 61,036 were hospitalized for non-fatal injuries. Nearly three-quarters of these injuries were among residents ages 65 years and older. For every older adult fall prevented, the following costs can be saved; the median admission charge for non-fatal fall injury hospitalizations was $43,011; total charges excessed $3.4 billion. The median length of stay was four days. In addition to deaths and injuries as well as the costs associated with them, falls can have many negative consequences for older adults, including: FEAR OF FALLING AGAIN, FORCED RELOCATION FROM THE HOME, LOSS OF INDEPENDENCE, AND ALSO STREES IN THE FAMILY. By reducing their chance of a fall, older adults can stay independent and have an increased quality of life. The following practices are recommended for older adults to reduce their chances of falling and stay independent: EXERCISING REGULARLY, HAVE AN EYE DOCTOR CHECK VISION AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR, MAKING THE HOME ENVIRONMENT SAFER, AND REVIEWING MEDICINES WITH A DOCTOR OR PHARACIST. Source: www.floridahealth.gov