Lewy body dementia is a neurodegenerative condition caused when protein deposits referred to as Lewy bodies grow in the nerve cell structure within brain regions that are associated with movement, memory, and thinking. It is the second most prevalent strain of advanced dementia after Alzheimer’s disease.
Although there is no cure for Lewy body dementia, it is a manageable condition. Lewy body dementia patients need a safe, secure, and supportive environment to lead happy and healthy lives. Such a setting may not be available at home. That is why you need to consider moving your aging relative to Hillsborough County, FL memory care.
Memory care communities are equipped with professional caregivers as well as medical and psychological experts that can help to manage your loved one’s condition in the best way possible. Read on to find out how the treatment of Lewy body dementia happens in memory care communities within Hillsborough County.
Diagnosis
Before highlighting the treatment options, we should first look at how Lewy body dementia is diagnosed. So far, there is no single way or test to detect and diagnose this form of dementia. A large part of the diagnosis is based solely on signs.
The progression of Lewy body dementia affects your motor function and compromises your capacity to think properly. Some of the most common symptoms of the condition include fluctuation in thinking function or alertness. It also manifests in the form of constant visual hallucinations.
Aging individuals with Lewy body dementia also show parkinsonian symptoms. Autonomic dysfunction is another common sign of the condition. It involves a volatile heart rate and blood pressure instability as well as a poor capacity of the body to regulate its temperature and sweating. To top it off, this type of dementia triggers REM sleep behavior disorder. This sleeping disorder makes people act out their dreams while asleep.
As mentioned earlier, there is no known cure for Lewy body dementia. However, there are several treatment methods that can be used to alleviate the symptoms related to the condition. These methods of Lewy body dementia treatment are used in Hillsborough County FL Memory Care.
Medications for Parkinson’s Disease
Lewy body dementia tends to have similar symptoms to Parkinson’s disease. Thus, medications for the disease can be utilized in managing its symptoms. That includes medications like carbidopa-levodopa which is meant to treat slow movement and rigid muscles. Nonetheless, Parkinson’s disease medications should be taken according to a doctor’s prescription to avoid adverse side effects like delusions, hallucinations, and increased confusion.
Cholinesterase Inhibitors
Examples of cholinesterase inhibitors include galantamine, donepezil, and rivastigmine. These inhibitors function by boosting the levels of neurotransmitters or chemical transmitters in the brain vital for judgment, thought, and memory.
With the inhibitors, Lewy body dementia patients experience better cognitive function as well as improved alertness. They may also witness are reduction in hallucinations. However, like any other medicines, the inhibitors are not free of side effects. Cholinesterase inhibitors can culminate in frequent urination, muscle cramps, and gastrointestinal upset.
Environmental Modifications
Simplifying the environment by minimizing clutter and noise can help individuals with dementia to function more easily. At the same time, caregivers’ responses can sometimes exacerbate the individual’s behaviors. It’s essential to avoid correcting or quizzing a person with dementia and instead offer reassurance and validation of their concerns to promote a positive and calming environment.
At memory care communities, care professionals are trained to communicate effectively with individuals living with Lewy body dementia. These care professionals also make sure to create a structured routine for each resident so as to avoid any confusion.
Lewy body dementia cannot be cured. Nevertheless, its adverse symptoms can be treated with the medications we have highlighted in this article. Yet, treatment is not enough with regard to improving the quality of life of affected adults. They also need a supportive environment with seasoned caregivers who understand their condition and know how to help them out. The safe and accommodating setting in memory care communities is perfect for aging folks with Lewy body dementia.
