Enjoy your later life : physical and emotional well being for older women.

  • Great Britain. Department of Health
Date:
1998
Catalogue details

Licence: Open Government Licence

Credit: Enjoy your later life : physical and emotional well being for older women. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    dementia. When dementia is diagnosed, it is impossible to predict how someone will respond to their treatment. Someone with dementia can still have a good quality of life if they have good support. Symptoms of dementia The type and seriousness of symptoms between individuals and types of dementia vary greatly, but there are three stages to the disease: Early stages © can't remember recent events or things like whether they have eaten ® concentration and decision making Is difficult e long term memory is still OK e becomes disorientated about time and places, forgets names of family and friends, becomes agitated, suffers sleeplessness and lack of appetite e may become moody and irritable over little things Ref FS08 K80/001 13340 PPD 25k eac1P Jun 98 CLO (03) Moderate dementia: e confusion, forgetfulness and mood changes are more obvious. May become anxious and aggressive, wander off, - become suspicious of loved ones and restless at nights. Things like dressing become very difficult Final stages: e probably cannot recognise close family and friends e may not be able to speak clearly or understand what is being said e may become bedridden or wheelchair bound Dealing with dementia Although there is as yet no cure, drugs can help to relieve the depression, restlessness, aggression and irritability that are often part of the illness. If you are worried, you must see your doctor because things like thyroid and vitamin deficiencies, drugs, depression, and head injury can cause dementia-like symptoms Y control high blood pressure Y take an interest in day to day events Y use memory aids such as lists v accept help like meals on wheels or a home help to help you maintain some independence v keep to a daily routine if you can. Keep a calendar and clock handy to help you if you get confused ¥ make sure your home Is safe, remember to turn off the gas at the mains when you go out, don't leave matches lying around Vv as long term memory remains good, try to reduce any anxiety you are feeling by relaxing with an old photograph album to help remember happy times Further help and advice e Alzheimer's Helpline, phone 0845 300 0336 (8am-6pm) e Mind, a mental health charity, phone 0181 519 2122