Dementia is a general term used to describe a decrease in mental ability. There are a wide range of symptoms associated with the decline in memory or thinking skills, and most are serious enough to affect the person’s daily life. Functions affected include memory, communication, language, perception, judgment, and the ability to focus. There are many conditions that can cause symptoms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, thyroid problems and vitamin deficiencies. Dementia is a progressive condition that becomes more severe over time, and most forms of the disease can not be cured. Treatment of dementia may help slow or lessen the development of symptoms making it easier for the patient to maintain independence and a good quality of life. The AT Home Care in home medical team can help you manage symptoms with a variety of treatments, therapies and lifestyle changes. AT Home Care offers a variety of treatment and management approaches to those suffering from dementia. Medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, as well as other drugs to help control mood, behavior and sleep disorders are oftentimes prescribed to patients with dementia. Occupational therapy is another treatment option available from AT Home Care. Our therapists work with patients in their homes by teaching coping mechanisms, and establishing ways to better manage symptoms and the affects dementia has on daily life. Through medication, therapy and modifications to the home environment, patients suffering from dementia can lead fairly normal, independent lives. The AT Home Care team of nurses, therapists and staff can offer guidance in all of these areas and help patients better manage symptoms, and adapt their lifestyles to coordinate with the slow progression of the condition. Dementia Statistics:

• There are over 100 different types of dementia
• Over 35 million people worldwide suffer from dementia
• Dementia is a leading cause of disability and dependency among the elderly