People with one or more medical conditions, including dementia, are at a higher risk of experiencing more severe effects when contracting COVID-19.
As we age, many of us experience some degree of memory loss. Sometimes it’s normal, but other times it can be a sign of dementia and other health issues.
Dementia is not a specific disease. It’s a broad term referring to the ability to remember, think, or make decisions, and it’s severe enough to interfere with daily life and activities.
Dementia is characterized by:
– Memory loss that disrupts daily life.
– Difficulty in planning or following plans, or solving problems.
– Difficulty in performing familiar tasks.
– Confusion about time or place.
– Changes in mood and personality.
– Problems with words.
– Losing objects without being able to retrace steps to find them.
– Decreased or lack of judgment.
– Withdrawn behavior at work, hobbies, or social activities.
– Difficulty with visual and spatial skills, such as getting lost while driving.
For many of us, dementia is a frightening word. When we notice signs of memory loss in ourselves, we may fear losing our independence or worry about others’ perception of our capability.
However, early detection makes a significant difference in improving the quality of life and managing symptoms. It can also make it easier for families to get community support and access necessary resources.
More information and resources:
https://doh.wa.gov/you-and-your-family
/illness-and-disease-z/dementia
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers
-and-dementia/what-dementia-symptoms-
types-and-diagnosis#:~:text=Dementia%
20is%20the%20loss%20of,and%20their%
20personalities%20may%20change
https://www.cdc.gov/aging/dementia
/index.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-
conditions/dementia/symptoms-causes
/syc-20352013
https://www.alz.org/help-support/
resources/hispanics-and-alzheimers
https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-
care/info-2021/prevent-dementia-
patients-wandering.html
