Dementia

Dementia is a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and social abilities. It happens when brain cells become damaged and can no longer communicate properly with each other. This leads to changes in how a person thinks, remembers, and interacts with others.

Dementia is not a single disease but rather an umbrella term for several conditions. Alzheimer's disease causes about 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases. Other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Each type affects the brain in different ways.

While dementia mainly affects older adults, it is not a normal part of aging. Many people live into their 90s and beyond without developing dementia. Understanding your risk factors and monitoring your health can help you take steps to protect your brain as you age.

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life, especially forgetting recently learned information
• Difficulty planning or solving problems, like following a recipe or managing bills
• Trouble completing familiar tasks at home, work, or leisure
• Confusion with time or place, such as losing track of dates or seasons
• Difficulty understanding visual images and spatial relationships
• Problems with words in speaking or writing, like stopping mid-conversation
• Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
• Decreased or poor judgment, such as giving away large sums of money
• Withdrawal from work or social activities
• Changes in mood and personality, including increased anxiety or suspicion

Early symptoms can be subtle and may develop gradually over years. Some people may not notice changes right away, or they may attribute them to normal aging.

Dementia develops when brain cells are damaged or die. Different types of dementia involve damage to different parts of the brain. Alzheimer's disease occurs when abnormal protein deposits form plaques and tangles in the brain. Vascular dementia happens when blood flow to the brain is reduced, often after a stroke or series of small strokes. Some causes, like vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems, can be reversed if caught early.

Risk factors include advancing age, family history, and genetics. Lifestyle factors also play a major role. High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, excessive alcohol use, and physical inactivity all increase risk. Low levels of certain nutrients, especially Vitamin B12, can contribute to cognitive decline over time. Head injuries and social isolation may also raise your chances of developing dementia.

Doctors diagnose dementia through a combination of medical history, physical exams, and cognitive tests. They will ask about symptoms, medications, and family history. Cognitive assessments test memory, problem solving, attention, and language skills. Blood tests help rule out reversible causes like Vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid problems, or infections.

Rite Aid offers Vitamin B12 testing as an add-on to help you monitor one important factor in cognitive health. Low B12 levels can lead to cognitive problems and may be corrected with treatment. Brain imaging like MRI or CT scans may also be used to look for strokes, tumors, or other changes in the brain.

• Medications like cholinesterase inhibitors or memantine to manage symptoms and slow progression
• Correcting vitamin deficiencies, especially Vitamin B12, through supplements or dietary changes
• Managing underlying conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol
• Regular physical exercise to improve blood flow to the brain and overall health
• Mental stimulation through puzzles, reading, learning new skills, and social activities
• Following a brain-healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids
• Getting quality sleep and managing sleep disorders
• Reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking
• Creating a safe, structured environment to reduce confusion and prevent falls
• Working with healthcare providers, therapists, and support groups for ongoing care