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It may seem unbelievable that the statistics for Alzheimer’s and Dementia are skyrocketing. Will you be, or have you or a loved one already been diagnosed with this devastating disease state?
Forgetfulness, agitation and frustration, social withdraw, difficulty with daily tasks, these are all symptoms of Dementia. Every 66 seconds someone develops Dementia in the U.S. Did you know that nearly 5.2 million Americans have Alzheimer’s and that number is expected to triple by 2050? Experts estimate that the number will be close to 15 million people by mid-century.
What is Alzheimer’s/Dementia?
Alzheimer’s is the most progressive form of dementia. The “tangles” in the Alzheimer’s brain become unattached and disrupt the communication in the brain. Excessive plaque buildup causes oxidative disruptions to the brain. These disturbances coincide with the tangles that are present. This plaque is known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis can occur anywhere in the body, but once it ravages the brain, the patient will experience many symptoms of forgetfulness and changes in personality, especially in the short-term memory region of the brain.
With Dementia, there are several different types, but one common and often overlooked type is vascular dementia, which usually affects individuals that have suffered a stroke or mini-stroke(s). Vascular dementia injures the brain in the area that controls memory, problem solving and speech. This type of dementia progresses at a slower pace, but with nonetheless frustration and self-consciousness for its sufferers.
The Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of dementia are different for every patient, but common indicators are as follows:
• Forgetfulness, especially short-term memory
• Change in personality
• Agitation/Frustration
• Difficulty with daily tasks
• Social withdraw
• Aphasia (speech disorders)
• Sundowning/Sleeplessness/Restlessness, especially in the evening
The Treatment
Some medications can slow the progression of the disease, but these are unfortunately not a curative treatment method. What we know that helps the patients suffering are the following:
• Dietary guidance
• Physical activity
• Cognitive training and socialization
• Intensive monitoring and management of metabolic and vascular risk factors
Staving off Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Eating a nutritious diet, such as the Mediterranean or Dash diet provides essential nutrients for the brain’s health. There have also been many studies on high doses of vitamin C and antioxidant therapy that help to protect cognition.
Staying social is also an impactful method to keeping your brain active. Along with socialization, staying physically active is imperative to keeping your oxygen-rich blood pumping and for warding off Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Osprey Lodge
In addition to their luxurious senior lifestyle with exceptional amenities, Osprey Lodge is also one of the most highly sought after facilities, due to their exclusive memory care wing with experienced practitioners to help patients with dementia or other cognitive disorders attain their best quality of life.
Memory Care Features
• A unique, homelike setting with an outdoor courtyard
• 24-hour staffing & security
• Wireless pendant emergency response system available
• Three nutritious, chef-prepared meals served daily
• Snacks & beverages available throughout the day
• Monthly blood pressure & weight checks
• Interior & exterior maintenance
• Social, cultural, entertainment, educational & fitness programs
• Caregivers specifically trained in memory loss behaviors
• Monthly support groups for family members
• All utilities (except personal phone)
• Fun family gatherings
• Private & semi-private apartments
Designed with the rustic warmth of a Colorado lodge, Osprey Lodge serves residents in the region surrounding Tavares, Mount Dora, Eustis, Leesburg, Lady Lake and Lake Mary. When you or a loved one are choosing to join an exclusive club of individuals that would benefit from assisted living services, there is no better option for you to make, other than deciding on Osprey Lodge as your new home.
For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact them today.
352-253-5100
www.ospreylodgetavares.com
