A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W

SENILE DEMENTIA

How does Senile Dementia occur ?

The cause of Alzheimer's disease is not known. Some recent evidence has suggested a link with the aluminium level in water supplies. Greater deposits of aluminium have been found in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease. This, however, has not been confirmed and more research is being conducted. Some other causes of dementia are repeated strokes, infections, alcohol abuse, brain tumours, or as a result of a severe head injury. An underactive thyroid condition or a deficiency of vitamin B12 can also cause it.

Why does Senile Dementia occur ?

No trigger factors are known. Very rarely Alzheimer's disease may run in families. Some people may develop dementia from repeated strokes. Sometimes these strokes are not very obvious and are quiet.

Treatment Involved for Senile Dementia

Investigations will be carried out to exclude other causes of dementia. This is important, because some of these can be partly or completely treated. X-rays may include a chest x-ray, skull x-ray or angiography (which is where a dye is injected into a blood vessel and then x-rays are taken). Often a CT scan (a computer-controlled x-ray of the brain) will be done to exclude a tumour or blockage in the fluid system that bathes the brain. If a blockage seems likely an operation may be advised whereby a tube is passed from the head to the heart. Sometimes it may be necessary to carry out an EEG (an electrical recording of the brain) or an ECG (an electrical recording of the heart). A variety of blood tests will be carried out. In the majority of cases of dementia there is no treatable cause. However, it is important to attempt to keep patients with dementia active and happy. This is more likely to be achieved in their home and in their familiar surroundings. Support will be necessary, not only for the sufferers but also for the carers. A social worker may be involved and may be able to provide social support (home-help and meals-on-wheels) as well as any financial support (mobility or attendance allowance). An occupational therapist may provide useful aids for the home and advise about how to avoid accidents in the home. District nurses and health visitors will provide advice on any health matters as well as dressings and incontinence aids. Attendance at a day centre may provide valuable relief for the carer as well as stimulation for the sufferer. Drugs are not generally useful for dementia. There is no way that new brain cells can be produced. In a patient who has problems sleeping or is restless and confused, then drugs may be used.

After treatment for Senile Dementia

It is important that the sufferer and the carers receive maximum support. Should any new problems develop it is best to seek early advice from a health professional.

If Senile Dementia is left untreated

There is no active treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Sadly the condition deteriorates slowly and usually has a fatal outcome, resulting from chest or other infection.

Effects on family of Senile Dementia

Alzheimer's disease is not infectious and cannot be transmitted to family and friends. It is not usually inherited. Alzheimer's disease places a considerable burden on the patient's carers. As well as all the services already mentioned, it may be possible to arrange a respite holiday. This means that the patient will be admitted for a while to a hospital or old people's home while the carer has a break. Alzheimer's disease is a very distressing condition. To see someone whom one has loved for many years gradually decline and change in personality is a very painful process. It is important that the carer receives support, psychological, physical and spiritual, and this may be provided by other members of the family or the health professionals.