Dementia (+ Alzheimer's)

Question 1

what is dementia?

what is alzeihmer’s?

Answer 1

dementia is an umbrella term for related symptoms due to progressive decline in brain function. Alzeihmer’s is the most common type.

Question 2

what causes alzeihmer’s?

Answer 2

tau plaques and neurofibrillary tangles deposit in and around acetylcholine nerves. this stops them working as well and so messages don’t get from brain as well-> sx.

Question 3

symptoms?

what might the family want to plan now?

Answer 3

personality change (aggression); hallucinations, loss of intellect, inability to do normal tasks, low mood, gets lost easily, can’t plan things

advance directives, lasting power of attorney, wills, getting palliative care in place

Question 4

is it genetic?

Answer 4

no, cause unknown. thought to be genetic and environmental.
increased risk:
- elderly
- FHx
-previous severe head injuries
- cardiovascular RF: HTN, high cholesterol, high BMI, no exercise, smoking and alcohol, bad diet

Question 5

treatment?

Answer 5

no cure just tx to help with sx.

• rivastigmine and memantine: antiglutamate
• donepezil: acetylcholine esterase inhibitor

SSRI’s may be helpful for depression (citalopram)

prevention:

• stop smoking and reduce acohol
• eat balanced diet and stay a healthy weight
• keep up exercise and keep mentally fit

Question 6

support?

Answer 6

dementia UK
MDT: palliative care, GP, geriatrician, specialist nurses, neurologist, psychologist, OT, SALT
respite residentials
NHS can help with finances, care and housing
MIND, age UK, memory cafes
admiral nurses- specialist dementia nurses

Question 7

complications?

Answer 7

problems swallowing-> aspiration-> frequent chest infections. problems eating and a reduced appetite.