Dementia is a complex condition affecting millions worldwide, yet misconceptions about it persist.
According to research, “approximately 60% of people with dementia currently reside in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) including the Philippines.”
In the latest episode of Health Matters, hosted by Baguio Chronicle’s Manang Lucy, guest expert Dr. Florilyn Joyce Cabanilla, an adult neurologist and Medical Officer IV at the Neuroscience Department of the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC), shared vital information on this topic.
Their discussion on Health Matters revolved around the types of dementia, symptoms, risk factors, and proper management of dementia, offering valuable insights for families and caregivers.
What is dementia?
“Dementia is an umbrella term for a decline in mental functions severe enough to interfere with daily life,” explained Dr. Cabanilla. Among its most common forms is Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases.
While Alzheimer’s primarily affects memory, other types of dementia manifest differently. For example:
- Vascular Dementia: Often linked to strokes or reduced blood flow to the brain, it presents with sudden symptoms like language difficulties or memory lapses depending on the affected brain region.
- Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): This type, common in people in their 50s and 60s, often causes behavioral changes, such as increased aggression or suspicion. A subtype of FTD affects language skills, making communication challenging.
- Lewy Body Dementia: Known for symptoms resembling Parkinson’s disease, it includes slowed movement and vivid visual hallucinations.
Recognizing the symptoms
Early signs of dementia often involve forgetfulness that gradually worsens, such as forgetting appointments, misplacing important items, or getting lost in familiar places.
Behavioral changes, language difficulties, and even hallucinations may follow, depending on the type of dementia.
“It’s important to note that some conditions, like depression or vitamin deficiencies, can mimic dementia symptoms,” Dr. Cabanilla added. Addressing these underlying issues can sometimes reverse the symptoms.
Risk factors and prevention
Dementia is most prevalent in individuals aged 65 and above, but younger people can also develop early-onset dementia. Key risk factors include:
- Uncontrolled health conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity increase the risk.
- Lifestyle habits: Physical inactivity, social isolation, and unhealthy diets can contribute to cognitive decline.
- Sensory impairment: Hearing and vision loss limit engagement with the world, exacerbating dementia risks.
To reduce the likelihood of developing dementia, Dr. Cabanilla recommends prioritizing these lifestyle changes:
- Exercise regularly. Aim for 150 minutes of physical activity per week, such as brisk walking, hiking, cycling, or any form of exercise.
- Stay socially connected. Engaging in community projects or spending time with loved ones helps keep the brain active.
- Follow a healthy diet. Focus on consuming unprocessed foods, less salt and red meat, and more vegetables.
- Get quality sleep. Seven hours of sleep per night is ideal for cognitive health; however, the most important thing to consider is that you feel refreshed upon waking up.
Living with dementia
Dr. Cabanilla emphasized the importance of maintaining quality of life for dementia patients.
“Encourage them to engage in meaningful activities, like hobbies they enjoyed before the diagnosis,” she advised. Allowing dementia patients some independence, even in small tasks like peeling vegetables, gardening, or sweeping the floor, fosters dignity and a sense of purpose.
However, safety should always be a priority. Caregivers must create a secure environment and use clear communication techniques, like maintaining eye contact, to help patients stay focused.
Treatment options
While there is no cure for dementia, treatments exist to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
In the Philippines, medications can enhance memory or help manage behavior. Promising new therapies, like anti-amyloid treatments, aim to slow disease progression but remain inaccessible in many areas due to high costs.
Dr. Cabanilla also said that the medical community is working hard to make currently unavailable treatment options accessible to everyone.
Caregiver well-being
Dementia caregiving is both rewarding and challenging.
Dr. Cabanilla highlighted the importance of communication and teamwork among family members to prevent burnout. “Caregivers also need to prioritize their own mental and physical well-being to provide effective care and support,” she said.
Early detection is key
Dementia progression varies from person to person, making early detection critical. If you notice signs in yourself or a loved one, seek medical advice right away.
BGHMC offers specialized care through its geriatrics and neurology departments. Dr. Cabanilla also has a memory clinic in Parkway, Legarda Road.
By understanding dementia and taking proactive steps, families can better navigate its challenges while supporting their loved ones’ well-being.
For more episodes of Health Matters and community health updates, tune in to the Baguio Chronicle’s weekly podcast series on Facebook every Saturday at 9 AM, or visit our website and YouTube channel.
