Dementia and Other Geriatric Issues – Aariv Neuropsychiatry Care

Dementia and Other Geriatric Issues

Dementia and Other Geriatric Issues

As people age, they may experience changes in physical health, cognitive abilities, and social support systems, which can increase the risk of developing psychological issues. It is important for older adults and their caregivers to be aware of potential psychological issues and seek professional help if needed.

Some common psychological issues that can affect older adults include:

Depression: Depression is a common psychological issue among older adults, and it can impact their quality of life and overall health. Symptoms of depression may include feelings of sadness or hopelessness, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable.
Anxiety disorders: Anxiety disorders can also impact older adults, and symptoms may include excessive worry, fear, and avoidance of certain situations.
Substance abuse: Substance abuse is a growing concern among older adults, and it can impact physical health, mental health, and overall quality of life.
Chronic pain: Chronic pain is a common issue among older adults, and it can impact mental health and overall well-being. Older adults with chronic pain may experience depression, anxiety, and difficulty with daily activities.
Sleep disorders: Older adults may experience changes in sleep patterns as they age, and sleep disorders can impact overall health and well-being. Sleep disorders may include insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome.
Social isolation: Social isolation can impact mental health and overall well-being among older adults. Older adults who are socially isolated may experience feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety.

Medication may be used to treat certain psychological issues in older adults, such as depression or anxiety. It is important for older adults and their caregivers to work closely with mental health professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment plan

In addition to professional help, there are also things that older adults and their caregivers can do to support mental health and well-being. This may include:

Encouraging healthy habits: Encouraging healthy habits, such as exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep, can support overall physical and emotional well-being.
Providing opportunities for socialization: Socialization can help older adults maintain social connections and improve mental health.
Engaging in meaningful activities: Engaging in meaningful activities, such as hobbies or volunteer work, can provide a sense of purpose and improve mood.
Addressing physical health concerns: Addressing physical health concerns, such as chronic pain or sleep disorders, can improve overall well-being and reduce the risk of developing psychological issues.
Seeking support: Older adults and their caregivers can seek support from mental health professionals, support groups, and community resources to address psychological issues and improve overall well-being.

In conclusion, psychological issues are common among older adults and can impact their overall health and well-being. It is important for older adults and their caregivers to be aware of potential psychological issues and seek professional help if needed.

What is Dementia?

Most commonly known dementia to us is “Alzheimer’s dementia”. Dementia is caused by damage to or loss of nerve cells and their connections in the brain. Most common symptom presentation is of memory problems. Usually affects the elderly population. Depending on the area of the brain that’s damaged, dementia can affect people differently and cause different symptoms. Sometimes dementia like symptoms are seen after brain injury or brain stroke.

Dementias are often grouped by what they have in common, such as the protein or proteins deposited in the brain or the part of the brain that’s affected. Some diseases look like dementias, such as those caused by a reaction to medications or vitamin deficiencies, and they might improve with treatment.

Symptoms of Dementia

Memory loss, which is usually noticed by someone else.
Difficulty communicating or finding words, forgetting names of known individuals.
Difficulty with spatial abilities, such as getting lost while driving
Difficulty reasoning or problem-solving, taking more time in simple tasks.
Difficulty handling complex tasks
Difficulty with planning, organizing and executing.
Difficulty with coordination and motor functions
Confusion and disorientation

Treatment for Dementia

Treatment often focuses on managing the health conditions and risk factors that contribute to dementia. Controlling conditions that affect the underlying health of your heart and blood vessels can sometimes slow the rate at which vascular dementia gets worse, and may also sometimes prevent further decline.

Depending on your individual situation, your doctor may prescribe medications to Lower your blood pressure, Reduce your cholesterol level, Prevent your blood from clotting and keep your arteries clear, Help control your blood sugar if you have diabetes. Other medications are prescribed to slow the progression of your disease and, manage the behavioural symptoms that may be seen with it.

Our psychiatrists and psychologists also simultaneously train the caregivers with tips to help the patient. Dementia is a chronic disease, and taking care of the person living with dementia brings a lot of frustration and despair to the caregiver and their psychological health also needs to be looked after.