5 Facts on Dementia You Should Know

Many challenges come with aging. For some, dementia may affect your life or the life of someone close to you. There are many myths surrounding this condition, but the following information can help you better understand the disease.

1.    Dementia is Not Inevitable

It’s common to find people who believe that dementia is just part of getting older. This is not true. While forgetfulness tends to increase with age, dementia is different. It affects mood and reasoning as well. Dementia itself is not a disease. It is a general word that describes many different types of diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies.

2.    Dementia Involves More Than Memory Loss

Dementia is most commonly associated with its affect on short-term memory loss. This is only where the condition begins to show itself. Those with any form of the condition can also struggle to communicate their feelings. It can alter someone’s behavior. It can cause drastic mood swings. Each individual will experience the disease differently.

3.    You Might Have Control Over Some Risk Factors

Research has yet to reveal the exact reason some develop dementia while others don’t, but it is well-known that increased age and a family history of the condition are two major risk factors. While you can’t control your age or your medical history, you can control your exercise routine and your diet, two factors that may also play a role. Exercise increases the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain and a diet designed to keep your heart healthy will also maximize brain health.

4.    You Can Live a Happy, Full Life with Dementia

While there is currently no cure for dementia, there are countless resources for aging adults diagnosed with the condition. From support groups to clinical trials, you can find others with the expertise to help you manage your condition. It is still possible for seniors with dementia to drive, travel and carry on with all the activities they enjoyed prior to their diagnosis.

5.    Care is Expensive

According to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, the average cost of care per individual dementia case was between $41,000 and $56,000 in 2010. Of those charges, over $6,000 were paid out-of-pocket.

If you or someone you love is struggling with dementia, your focus should be centered on adjusting to a new way of life, not worrying about the financial ramifications of your condition. Discuss your needs with My Senior Health Plan and let us offer you insurance solutions that may lower your out-of-pocket charges and reduce stress. Call today for a free consultation.

Pete Blasi