As age increases, various organs in the body, including the brain, naturally deteriorate. Especially in individuals with chronic diseases such as hypertension, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, or those who regularly consume alcohol and smoke, the likelihood of developing dementia increases.
Dementia can be observed through these behaviors
- Decreased language comprehension, incorrect use of language, such as calling objects by the wrong name, sometimes constantly referring to things as “that” or “this.”
- Unable to perform activities previously done, such as simple calculations, operating the air conditioner, turning on the television, or cooking familiar meals.
- Impaired perception or learning of new things, not knowing the purpose of objects, or unable to distinguish tastes or smells.
- Impaired daily routine activities, inappropriate bathing or dressing, reluctance to bathe or brush teeth, requiring constant reminders, and unable to go anywhere alone.
- Worsening memory, forgetfulness, especially about recent events, while older memories may still be intact, leading to repeated questions or stories.
- Sometimes repeating actions, such as watering plants multiple times a day.
- Forgetting recent events, such as not remembering names, forgetting where items were placed, not recognizing familiar places, or forgetting family members’ names.
- Impaired management and decision-making skills, such as hesitation to decide or frequent poor decisions.
- Personality changes, becoming lethargic, unenthusiastic, or easily irritable without clear reasons, possibly experiencing hallucinations, delusions, paranoia about theft, or fears of losing possessions.
Who is at risk of dementia?
- Older adults
- Those with a family history of brain diseases
- Those with high-risk genetics
- Those with risky behaviors such as regular smoking and alcohol consumption
- Those with chronic diseases that may lead to cerebrovascular disease, such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol
How to diagnose clearly
- Self-assessment of dementia status
- Blood tests to find causes affecting memory, such as kidney function, liver function, blood count, thyroid hormone, calcium, and vitamin B12 levels
- Consult a doctor for brain function tests
- Brain X-ray
Care and treatment for dementia patients
- Encourage patients to engage in various activities such as praying, counting coins, exercising, playing memory card games, or practicing meditation
- Closely monitor patient behavior, strictly prohibit alcohol consumption and smoking, especially in cases with chronic diseases; strictly control diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels
- Administer acetyl cholinesterase inhibitor medications as prescribed by the doctor to slow brain deterioration
Follow these steps to avoid dementia!
- Control risk factors for cerebrovascular disease, such as quitting smoking, strictly controlling diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels
- Have regular annual health check-ups or as recommended by a doctor
- Reduce intake of sugar and salt, focus on low-fat foods, and eat a balanced diet with all five food groups
- Exercise regularly, at least 150 minutes per week
- Engage in recreational activities to relieve stress
Dr. Ratchanee Boonyakanjanakorn
Neurology and Brain Center Physician
Phyathai 3 Hospital
