Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, followed by Lewy body dementia. Older adults who develop Lewy body dementia have large amounts of protein deposits known as Lewy bodies in their nerve cells. These proteins can increase memory loss and cause a decrease in motor skills. Continue reading to learn about the different causes of Lewy body dementia and how those factors could impact your aging loved one.
Genetics
If your loved one’s parents or siblings developed Lewy body dementia, your parent is likely to also have the associated genetic markers, so you should take him or her to the doctor for genetic testing. Most physicians will test for variants of three genes—GBA, APOE, and SNCA. Even if your loved one tests positive for these genes, there’s no guarantee he or she will develop Lewy body dementia. The examination only determines the likelihood your loved one will develop the condition.
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Aging
Adults over the age of 60 are at higher risk for developing Lewy body dementia, which isn’t a single disorder. It consists of various factors that involve cognition and autonomic function. Aging and poor bone health can increase the risk of Lewy body dementia. Although your loved one cannot stop the aging process, there are steps he or she can take to stave off cognitive decline and enhance sleeping habits, mobility, and mental and emotional health, which can lower the risk of developing Lewy body dementia.
For dementia care Mississauga families can count on, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Our compassionate caregivers use revolutionary memory care programs to help seniors stave off the progression of dementia, and they can also assist with a wide variety of important everyday tasks, including bathing, grooming, exercise, and cooking.
Gender
Men are more likely to develop Lewy body dementia. This is due to many factors, including the fact that women differ from men in terms of what they’re typically exposed to in their environments. Women also have different genetic variables. However, there are steps all seniors can take to lower their risk of this neurological condition, including following a nutritious diet, staying physically active, and cutting back on bad habits such as smoking and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.
Parkinson’s Disease
If your parent is living with Parkinson’s, he or she may experience motor symptoms in the early stages that impact his or her balance and posture. As the disease progresses and accelerates the loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells, your loved one could develop other issues, such as poor sleeping habits, anxiety, and chronic pain. Your parent may also experience dementia-like symptoms, such as confusion, memory loss, slower response times, and a decreased attention span. If your loved one shows signs of cognitive impairment, Parkinson’s has likely developed into Lewy body dementia, and you should take him or her to the doctor to obtain an official diagnosis. Receiving treatment early on could boost your loved one’s wellbeing and slow the progression of this condition.
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 at-home care Mississauga, ON, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. Call Home Care Assistance today at 905-337-1200 to learn about our high-quality in-home dementia care services.