Dementia Written by Ramil A. Ibarra, RN, BSN, MSN September 21, 2014 Dementia is not a specific disease but a symptomatology of numerous diseases. It is a destitute of mind not only seen on elderly, but observed relatively in early age. Dementia is a permanent and progressive impairment of cognitive functioning manifested by long and short term memory lost accompanied by impairments in judgment, social behavior, and abstract thinking. There are two common types of Dementia, the multi-infarct dementia. As a result, from repeated strokes, which cause complete deterioration of cerebral tissue and Alzheimer’s disease characterized by brain atrophy as manifested by a progressive mental and physical deterioration lasting five to four years before death occurs. Significant awareness of signs of dementia is essential as it is presented in an insidious, slow onset, which is unrelated to a specific etiology, condition, or situation. Personality changes can often occur to a person accompanied by withdrawal. Confusion often unnoticed by the person and is usually aware of memory loss and progresses to total memory loss. It is vital to know that a person suffering from dementia is unable to do self-care, suffering from disturbed thought process, and they risk for injury. It is important to encourage the person to function and actively participate in family and social activities as long as possible. An Orderly and a ritualistic schedule are necessary to develop a sense of security. Keep the person oriented to date, time, place and person accurately and as frequently as possible. It is necessary to keep a calendar and clock that can read by older person. Family members should show pictures of family members and familiar objects to promote a sense of security and continuity. Speak to the person in a slow, avoid excitement and calm voice. Administer prescribed medications to reduce emotional lability, irritability, and agitation. If a person is suffering from hearing impairment, it is important to directly face when talking to the person so he or she can read lips and interpret facial expression. A person suffering from dementia is experiencing a decreased sensitivity for taste. A stronger spices if tolerated to enhance the taste of foods. A frequent touch to a person is encouraged to relatives to decrease the sense of isolation and to compensate for auditory and visual sensory loss. Reference (n.d.). Retrieved from DEMENTIA starring Ms. Nora Aunor: https://facebook/pages/DEMENTIA-starring-Ms-Nora-Aunor/633448023362345 Boyd, D., Hinds, M., Hylands, J., & Saccoman, E. (2009). Evolve reaach comprehensive review for the NCLEX-PN examination (2nd ed.). St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby Elvesier. Nora Aunor for National Artist. (n.d.). Retrieved September 21, 2014, from Nora Aunor for National Artist:https://facebook/NoraAunorForNationalArtist?fref=photo Rabins, P., & Blass, D. (2014). In the Clinic. Dementia. Annals Of Internal Medicine, 161(63), ITC 2-ITC 16.
Posted on: Mon, 22 Sep 2014 02:05:38 +0000
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