September is World Alzheimer's Month, which aims to raise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer's and dementia. Despite many misconceptions Alzheimer's and dementia are not the same thing.
Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of conditions affecting the brain, which get gradually worse over time. Common symptoms include problems with memory, thinking and communication, leading to a reduction in skills required for everyday living. Alzheimer's is one of these conditions.
Caroline Scates, deputy director of Admiral Nurse development at Dementia UK, said: "There are over 200 different sub-types. Alzheimer's disease is one of these and it is the most common form of dementia, caused by a build-up of proteins called amyloid and tau in the brain, which result in the death of brain cells."
There are many misunderstandings about the conditions. Here, experts explain how best to cope if someone is diagnosed with either of the issues.
Dementia can affect people at any age
While people over the age of 65 are more likely to receive a diagnosis, dementia doesn't just affect the elderly. Fran Vandelli, a dementia lead for Bupa Care Services, said: "Frontotemporal dementia is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 45 to 65, though people can get it earlier or later in life.
"There are broadly two types of frontotemporal dementia, which usually start with changes to behaviour and emotional control, and/or problems with language."
It's not always hereditary
Just because there is a history of the condition, it doesn't mean it will impact other family members. "Developing dementia isn't inevitable, and there are so many factors that play a part in health and mental wellbeing that it makes more sense to focus on living well and staving off decline of all kinds," says Vandelli.
"There are some rare types of dementia that can be inherited, but with these the disease tends to develop earlier in life, and in rare cases people can start showing the signs in their 30s."
Diet and dementia are linked
The expert added: "Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure are both linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer's and vascular dementia."
Vandelli advises: "Try to avoid processed or fatty foods - including sausages and burgers, ready meals, cakes and biscuits - as these can increase your cholesterol, which is detrimental to your blood vessels and cardiovascular health."
Staying active can help prevent dementia
Besides a healthy diet and exercise - it doesn't have to be a strenuous workout - can help reduce the risk of dementia. Vandelli said: "Staying active and involved in hobbies helps maintain physical strength and dexterity. It can also help manage our weight and blood pressure and it's great for your mental health too."
Continue to live positively following a diagnosis
A dementia diagnosis doesn't always mean someone's quality of life will suddenly deteriorate. "Many people are able to continue working, driving and living full and productive lives after a diagnosis of dementia. Although there is no cure for dementia, there is specialist care," added Caroline Scates.
With the right support and some practical changes, it's possible to live well with dementia. Some changes that might help include getting the right support system, such as family, friends and healthcare professionals.
Support patients by helping them to continue with their normal routines, including activities and hobbies they enjoy.
Don't always correct someone with dementia
People with dementia can become confused and disorientated, leading them to believe things that are not true - known as 'false beliefs' or 'delusions.' While it may be tempting for friends or family to try and correct them, that's not always the best approach.
Caroline Scates added: "In these instances, it's better to try and explain in a calm and reassuring way what's happening without challenging or correcting them, to ease distress."
Contrasting colours can help dementia patients navigate
Getting around the home can be tricky for those experiencing issues with depth and distance perception. But simple help, such as using contrasting colours can help people with dementia navigate their homes and other environments.
Changing the colour of bed linen or furniture can make it more easily distinguishable from the colours of walls and carpets. Highlighting the seat of a chair can give people something to aim for when sitting down, whilst strips on the edge of the table can help it stand out.
For more stories from where you live, visit InYourArea.
