Early-onset dementia is the generic term used for cognitive impairment that develops in adults under the age of 65. The initial symptoms often include difficulties with language and vision along with behavioural or personality changes. There are some key reasons the disorder develops.
1. Familial Alzheimer’s Disease
This form of dementia develops secondary to inheriting one of three abnormal genes:
- Amyloid precursor protein (APP)
- Presenilin 1 (PSEN1)
- Presenilin 2 (PSEN2)
Adults who inherit one of these anomalies are certain to develop familial Alzheimer’s. Their offspring have a 50 percent chance of inheriting the causative gene and also developing the disorder. However, early-onset dementia can also occur in someone due to environmental and lifestyle factors.
If your loved one has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, now is the best time to plan for long-term care at home. Families shouldn’t have to worry about finding reliable at-home care. Home Care Assistance is a leading provider of elderly home care. We offer a proprietary program called the Balanced Care Method, which uses holistic methods to promote senior health, our caregivers and Care Managers are available 24/7, and all of our in-home care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
2. Vascular Dementia
Cognitive decline occurs in this instance due to a blockage that interferes with normal blood flow throughout the brain. Vascular dementia remains the second leading cause of cognitive impairment, and it’s commonly associated with someone who experienced a stroke. However, vascular issues can also occur due to traumatic injury, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Reducing risk factors and managing current health conditions can prevent dementia development.
3. Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a general term referring to disease processes that cause deterioration in the frontal lobe of the brain. The affliction may also progress to the temporal lobes. Unlike other forms of dementia, FTD has strong genetic ties. Adults either have a family history of frontotemporal dementia or have mutations in the GRN or MAPT genes. Currently, there’s no cure for FTD. Physicians only offer symptom management.
Edmonton elderly home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
4. Alcohol-Related Dementia
Alcoholism causes dementia in several ways. Heavy drinking permanently damages neurons, as alcohol is toxic to the brain cells. Drinking also stimulates chemical changes in the brain and shrinkage of tissues. Alcoholics commonly turn away from eating properly in favour of drinking, which causes malnutrition. When the gastrointestinal system is constantly exposed to alcohol, irritation occurs that leads to vomiting and malabsorption of nutrients. Chronic drinkers are commonly deficient in thiamine, which is necessary for healthy neuron function. Over time, drinking damages blood vessels and causes high blood pressure. LDL cholesterol levels also rise, which further impedes blood flow to the brain. Becoming and staying sober can reverse the symptoms.
5. Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy bodies are alpha-synuclein proteins that develop and accumulate in the regions of the brain that regulate cognitive ability and motor skills. The nature of the disorder prevents the use of medications, as people experience many adverse reactions. Affected adults are generally advised to participate in physical therapy, cardiovascular training, and strength training along with performing balance and stretching exercises to maintain motor skills and physical movement. Speech therapy helps adults manage speech or swallowing difficulties. Art, music, and occupational therapies are recommended to boost mood.
Caring for a loved one with early-onset dementia or another type of cognitive decline can be challenging for family members. Edmonton respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed. If you need professional care for your loved one, Home Care Assistance is just a phone call away. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (780) 490-7337.