Artwork

Treść dostarczona przez Melissa B PhD. Cała zawartość podcastów, w tym odcinki, grafika i opisy podcastów, jest przesyłana i udostępniana bezpośrednio przez Melissa B PhD lub jego partnera na platformie podcastów. Jeśli uważasz, że ktoś wykorzystuje Twoje dzieło chronione prawem autorskim bez Twojej zgody, możesz postępować zgodnie z procedurą opisaną tutaj https://pl.player.fm/legal.
Player FM - aplikacja do podcastów
Przejdź do trybu offline z Player FM !
icon Daily Deals

EP 171: What is Vascular Dementia?

10:45
 
Udostępnij
 

Manage episode 407246747 series 3560996
Treść dostarczona przez Melissa B PhD. Cała zawartość podcastów, w tym odcinki, grafika i opisy podcastów, jest przesyłana i udostępniana bezpośrednio przez Melissa B PhD lub jego partnera na platformie podcastów. Jeśli uważasz, że ktoś wykorzystuje Twoje dzieło chronione prawem autorskim bez Twojej zgody, możesz postępować zgodnie z procedurą opisaną tutaj https://pl.player.fm/legal.

WHAT IS VASCULAR DEMENTIA?

Vascular dementia is a type of dementia linked to issues with blood flow to the brain. It ranks as the second most common type of dementia, occurring in about 15 to 30% of all dementia cases. In this episode, we explore its symptoms, risk factors, and the unique challenges it carries.

SYMPTOMS AND RISK FACTORS

Symptoms of vascular dementia can manifest suddenly or gradually over time. Individuals may experience cognitive problems, including poor memory, language difficulties (aphasia), coordination issues (apraxia), and problems recognizing things or people (agnosia). Unlike other dementias, vascular dementia often presents neurological symptoms like exaggerated reflexes, walking imbalance, and muscle weakness.

Risk factors include age, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, gender, and race. Understanding these factors is crucial in managing and preventing this condition.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosing vascular dementia requires a comprehensive approach. Healthcare professionals conduct a thorough diagnostic, ruling out other potential causes for symptoms. This includes assessing medical history, medications, risk factors, cognitive screenings, and imaging tests like CT, MRI, and PET scans. Neuropsychological testing may also be employed for a detailed evaluation of cognitive function.

TREATMENT AND PROGNOSIS

While no specific drugs are FDA-approved for vascular dementia, medications used for Alzheimer's disease may provide some relief. The primary focus, however, lies in managing cardiovascular problems. Lifestyle changes, including controlling blood pressure, maintaining cholesterol levels, and a healthy weight, play a crucial role.

The prognosis for vascular dementia varies based on individual factors such as age, existing medical conditions, and the nature of cardiovascular issues. While there's no cure, the goal of treatment is to prevent further damage, manage symptoms, and provide support for both the affected individual and their caregivers.

Get your FREE downloads at https://melissabphd.com/ from the Blog page that goes with this episode or using the links below.

10 Warning Signs: https://melissabphd.com/10warningsigns/

Diagnosis Checklist: https://melissabphd.com/diagnosischecklist/

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

About Melissa B PhD

Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse Please visit my website at MelissaBPhD.com to learn more about me, how you can work with me directly, and/or support future episodes of the podcast. Within the first 18 months of launching this podcast, we reached a ranking of top 10% globally.

The best way you can help the podcast continue to grow is to LIKE the podcast with a thumbs up, SHARE the podcasts you like with others, SUBSCRIBE, and LEAVE A REVIEW. These things only take a minute of your time, but they really do help increase my rating and ranking; but more importantly, these actions help other people find the podcast.

For the most up-to-date news and information about the podcast and other products and services, please visit my website to sign up for my newsletter and follow me on social media.

If you are on Facebook, feel free to join my Group - look for This is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World ~ and I'll see you there!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/249685261464834/

  continue reading

200 odcinków

Artwork
iconUdostępnij
 
Manage episode 407246747 series 3560996
Treść dostarczona przez Melissa B PhD. Cała zawartość podcastów, w tym odcinki, grafika i opisy podcastów, jest przesyłana i udostępniana bezpośrednio przez Melissa B PhD lub jego partnera na platformie podcastów. Jeśli uważasz, że ktoś wykorzystuje Twoje dzieło chronione prawem autorskim bez Twojej zgody, możesz postępować zgodnie z procedurą opisaną tutaj https://pl.player.fm/legal.

WHAT IS VASCULAR DEMENTIA?

Vascular dementia is a type of dementia linked to issues with blood flow to the brain. It ranks as the second most common type of dementia, occurring in about 15 to 30% of all dementia cases. In this episode, we explore its symptoms, risk factors, and the unique challenges it carries.

SYMPTOMS AND RISK FACTORS

Symptoms of vascular dementia can manifest suddenly or gradually over time. Individuals may experience cognitive problems, including poor memory, language difficulties (aphasia), coordination issues (apraxia), and problems recognizing things or people (agnosia). Unlike other dementias, vascular dementia often presents neurological symptoms like exaggerated reflexes, walking imbalance, and muscle weakness.

Risk factors include age, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, gender, and race. Understanding these factors is crucial in managing and preventing this condition.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosing vascular dementia requires a comprehensive approach. Healthcare professionals conduct a thorough diagnostic, ruling out other potential causes for symptoms. This includes assessing medical history, medications, risk factors, cognitive screenings, and imaging tests like CT, MRI, and PET scans. Neuropsychological testing may also be employed for a detailed evaluation of cognitive function.

TREATMENT AND PROGNOSIS

While no specific drugs are FDA-approved for vascular dementia, medications used for Alzheimer's disease may provide some relief. The primary focus, however, lies in managing cardiovascular problems. Lifestyle changes, including controlling blood pressure, maintaining cholesterol levels, and a healthy weight, play a crucial role.

The prognosis for vascular dementia varies based on individual factors such as age, existing medical conditions, and the nature of cardiovascular issues. While there's no cure, the goal of treatment is to prevent further damage, manage symptoms, and provide support for both the affected individual and their caregivers.

Get your FREE downloads at https://melissabphd.com/ from the Blog page that goes with this episode or using the links below.

10 Warning Signs: https://melissabphd.com/10warningsigns/

Diagnosis Checklist: https://melissabphd.com/diagnosischecklist/

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

About Melissa B PhD

Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse Please visit my website at MelissaBPhD.com to learn more about me, how you can work with me directly, and/or support future episodes of the podcast. Within the first 18 months of launching this podcast, we reached a ranking of top 10% globally.

The best way you can help the podcast continue to grow is to LIKE the podcast with a thumbs up, SHARE the podcasts you like with others, SUBSCRIBE, and LEAVE A REVIEW. These things only take a minute of your time, but they really do help increase my rating and ranking; but more importantly, these actions help other people find the podcast.

For the most up-to-date news and information about the podcast and other products and services, please visit my website to sign up for my newsletter and follow me on social media.

If you are on Facebook, feel free to join my Group - look for This is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World ~ and I'll see you there!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/249685261464834/

  continue reading

200 odcinków

Wszystkie odcinki

×
 
In this episode, Dr. Melissa Batchelor dives into the future of assisted living with Shaun Toomey of Inspir Embassy Row, a premier luxury senior living and memory care community. Discover how cutting-edge technology and personalized care are setting a new standard for older adults. Learn about the innovative services offered by Inspir and the role of age-friendly initiatives in shaping a more inclusive world. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation! Stay Connected 🌐 Website: MelissaBPhD.com 🎙 Podcast: TIGO - Topics in Gerontology 📍 Join our private Facebook Group: Building Age-Friendly Ecosystems…
 
Are you caring for a loved one with dementia and wondering how to make the most of your time together? Walking can be a great way to spend quality time with your loved one while also promoting their physical and mental well-being. In this episode, we'll explore 3 tips for walking together. Tune in to learn how you can make walking with your loved one a positive and enjoyable experience for both of you and why benefits you both!…
 
When Dementia Patients Stop Eating: A Caregiver’s Guide to Support and Comfort Caring for a loved one with dementia is an emotional journey, and one of the most difficult challenges is when they stop eating or drinking. This heartbreaking transition often signals the later stages of the disease, leaving caregivers feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. In this blog post, we’ll explore: Why people with dementia stop eating and drinking: From loss of appetite to difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), there are several physical and neurological reasons behind this change. How to provide comfort and care: Practical tips like offering liquids with straws to trigger reflexes, using calorie-dense drinks, and maintaining oral hygiene to prevent discomfort. Ways to maintain connection: Mealtimes can still be meaningful moments to share love and presence, even when food is no longer a focus. Grief, loss, and bereavement: The emotional toll of caregiving, especially during end-stage dementia, can be overwhelming. Recognizing anticipatory grief and seeking support can make a difference. This journey isn’t one you have to face alone. Hospice care, palliative specialists, and local dementia organizations are invaluable resources that can guide and support you every step of the way. For more personalized help, explore my new ebook and online course, Managing Meals and Eating Challenges . Designed for family and professional caregivers, these resources include expert strategies, video demonstrations, and skills checklists to help you navigate eating challenges with confidence and compassion. Visit MelissaBPhD.com to learn more and take the first step toward making mealtimes less stressful and more meaningful.…
 
In this episode of This is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World , I sit down with Brittany Olson, an expert in Feng Shui and interior design. Brittany shares her insights on creating spaces that promote harmony and balance, highlighting how Feng Shui can be a powerful tool for enhancing well-being. We explore practical tips for arranging furniture, selecting colors, and using natural elements to transform any environment into a more inviting and peaceful place. Whether you're new to Feng Shui or looking for ways to refresh your space, Brittany offers valuable advice that can make a real difference in your home. Brittany also discusses her approach to working with clients and how she tailors her recommendations to suit individual needs and preferences. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the personal energy in a space and how it can influence one's life. From small adjustments to larger transformations, Brittany's expertise helps people create spaces that nurture both mind and body. Tune in to hear more about how Feng Shui can guide you in making intentional choices for your home, and learn how to bring more balance and positivity into your living environment.…
 
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, changes in touch—like the return of the palmar reflex and loss of fine motor skills—can make eating difficult for individuals with dementia. In this video, I share two key sensory changes that impact mealtimes and four practical strategies to help your loved one eat more easily and comfortably. From the overhand and underhand techniques to introducing finger foods and adaptive utensils, these tips are designed to improve both the caregiver’s experience and the individual’s independence. Looking for more support? Check out my new course, Managing Meals and Eating Challenges, or grab the ebook for quick solutions at melissabphd.com/courses.…
 
Caring for a loved one with dementia who struggles with eating can be challenging, as sensory changes in taste and smell often lead to a loss of interest in food. These changes occur because dementia damages brain areas responsible for processing smell and taste, such as the olfactory bulb and hippocampus, and is further impacted by protein buildups like amyloid plaques. To address these challenges, caregivers can enhance flavors with spices or sweeteners, experiment with textures and temperatures, and use visually appealing presentations to make meals more enjoyable. Safety considerations, such as preventing spoiled food consumption and ensuring visibility of meals, are equally essential to improving the dining experience. Remaining flexible and patient is key, as what works one day may not work the next. For more guidance, caregivers can explore the course Managing Meals and Eating Challenges at melissabphd.com/courses , which offers expert strategies and practical tools. Additional resources are available on the YouTube channel This is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World and in the private Facebook community. These platforms provide valuable insights and support to help caregivers create less stressful and more enjoyable mealtimes for their loved ones.…
 
How Hearing and Language Changes in Dementia Impact Eating | Tips for Caregivers Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias impact every aspect of life, including how a person hears and understands language. In this episode, Dr. Melissa Batchelor explores how these changes can make eating independently a challenge—and shares practical strategies to help. ✨ Topics Covered: How hearing loss and auditory processing difficulties affect mealtimes. Tips to improve communication with nonverbal cues and visual aids. Breaking down multi-step tasks into simple, manageable steps. 🍴 Caregiving isn’t easy, but small adjustments can make a big difference. Watch now and learn how to create a more supportive mealtime environment! 💡 Want more in-depth guidance? Check out the online course, Alzheimer's Disease: Managing Meals and Eating Challenges, at melissabphd.com/courses.…
 
In this episode of This is Getting Old , Dr. Melissa sits down with David Burke, the founder of NxtGen Care, to discuss how social engagement and movement are vital for healthy aging. David highlights how staying connected with others and maintaining regular physical activity are key factors in promoting cognitive health, emotional well-being, and overall longevity. He shares a touching story of a retired World War II pilot who, despite no longer being able to fly, built a flight simulator to stay socially engaged with others and keep his passion alive. David also discusses his work at NxtGen Care, where the company’s innovative software platform helps monitor and enhance the social engagement and well-being of residents in assisted living communities. This technology enables caregivers and families to track the quality of social interactions, ensuring that elderly individuals receive the emotional support they need. Through this platform, NxtGen Care is improving the standard of elder care, helping families stay connected with their loved ones, and reducing the risk of loneliness and isolation in senior care settings.…
 
One of the most concerning and puzzling symptoms of Alzheimer's is when a person stops being able to eat independently. Without adequate support, this could lead to malnutrition, weight loss, and a decline in overall health.In this video, you will learn how changes in vision impact a person living with dementia’s ability to feed themselves. As Alzheimer's disease progresses, changes in vision can significantly impact a person's daily life, including their eating habits. In this video, I will share how Alzheimer's impacts a persons’ vision including difficulties with peripheral vision, color and contrast detection, depth perception, and others - and how these changes may lead to reduced food intake. If you're a caregiver or healthcare professional supporting someone with Alzheimer's, this video is for you. Learn how to identify the signs of vision-related eating challenges and discover practical strategies to encourage eating for a person living with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia by optimizing cues.Discover how to make mealtime easier and more enjoyable for people with dementia. This video explores innovative strategies and practical tips to simplify the eating process, promoting independence and dignity for individuals with dementia. Learn how to create a supportive environment, adapt meal presentation, and encourage self-feeding to improve their overall dining experience.From understanding the physical and emotional changes that occur in Alzheimer's patients to practical tips for mealtime assistance, we'll delve into the complexities of this often-overlooked aspect of the disease.…
 
In this episode of This is Getting Old: Moving Towards an Age-Friendly World , I’m joined by Nancy (Dangle) and Kat (Dot), two incredible women with valuable insights into dementia care. Together, we explore the emotional challenges of caregiving, particularly how important non-verbal communication can be when building meaningful connections with loved ones living with dementia. Nancy shares her personal experience with Alzheimer’s disease, discussing the power of physical touch, eye contact, and simply being present. We also talk about the importance of inclusion and how small gestures—like inviting someone to a gathering without the pressure to attend—can help combat the isolation often felt by people with dementia. Kat offers advice on how caregivers can create a positive environment by being grounded and aware of their energy. We wrap up with practical tips for caregivers, including how simple, meaningful gifts like shared experiences can make a lasting impact during the holidays. Tune in for heartwarming stories and tips on how to approach dementia care with empathy and connection.…
 
In "Dementia Caregiving: How to Prepare for Health Crisis (2024)," we provide essential strategies for caregivers managing the complexities of dementia care. Preparing for unexpected health crises can ease the burden on both the caregiver and the person with dementia. This episode covers vital aspects like maintaining caregiver health, emotional preparedness, and practical planning for financial, legal, and care arrangements. Together with Dr. Melissa Batchelor and guest Jacob Kendall, we dive into how caregiving impacts personal health and share insights on managing stress, building a Caregiving Plan B, and finding resources to make tough moments more manageable. Caregiving is a journey, and being prepared can make all the difference. Tune in to gain the knowledge and support you need to navigate caregiving with resilience and confidence.…
 
In this episode, we explore the critical risks of opioid use among seniors, including addiction, overdose, and the dangerous side effects that can worsen existing health conditions. We speak with David Reeser, CEO of OpiAID, to understand the impact of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) on aging parents and their families, highlighting why awareness is essential for everyone. OpiAID is revolutionizing OUD treatment with remote patient monitoring, biometric insights, and personalized care plans that go beyond the clinical setting. As the opioid crisis impacts families nationwide, this episode provides crucial insights for seniors and their loved ones to safely navigate opioid-related challenges.…
 
Are you navigating the dating scene after 50? Whether you’re newly single or returning to the dating world after years, it can feel daunting, but also exciting! In this episode, I’m joined by Evan Marc Katz, a renowned dating coach with over 13,000 success stories, to explore how to find love and meaningful connections later in life. We discuss the challenges and joys of modern dating over 50, how to overcome fears, present yourself authentically, and stay safe both online and offline.…
 
In today’s fast-paced world, numerous diet trends promise to enhance health and longevity, but true wellness stems from understanding the science behind our food choices. This episode examines three popular diets—intermittent fasting, the Mediterranean diet, and the ketogenic diet—and their impact on aging. Intermittent fasting, which alternates between eating and fasting periods, is praised for weight management and metabolic health benefits, though its long-term sustainability, especially for older adults, is debated. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, is widely regarded for reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer's. Its focus on whole, minimally processed foods makes it a balanced choice for promoting longevity. Meanwhile, the ketogenic diet, which encourages high fat and low carbohydrate intake, has shown benefits in weight loss and controlling epilepsy but raises concerns about long-term health risks, particularly its effect on heart disease. Despite their differences, these diets underscore the importance of nutrition in aging well. Whole, nutrient-dense foods, like those in the Mediterranean diet, help prevent chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and promote cognitive health, reducing the risk of dementia. For long-term well-being, the key isn’t extreme dietary restrictions but adopting a balanced approach that includes plant-based foods, healthy fats, and mindful eating. By doing so, we can support the body’s natural aging process and ensure a vibrant, fulfilling life in later years.…
 
Caring for an aging loved one can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure where to start. Many older adults express a desire to "age in place," but it’s critical to assess whether staying at home is still a safe and realistic option for them. My "Care Options Checklist" offers a clear framework for evaluating important factors such as mobility, cognitive health, and their ability to manage daily living tasks like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. Depending on their needs, solutions might range from simple home modifications to hiring a professional caregiver or even a home health aide for more hands-on assistance. Beyond in-home care, there are additional resources designed to support caregivers and aging adults alike. Community services, such as Meals on Wheels or adult daycare programs, can provide social engagement and lighten the load on caregivers. Another crucial resource is respite care, which offers temporary relief, allowing caregivers to recharge. By considering all available options, you can make informed, compassionate decisions that prioritize your loved one's well-being, ensuring they receive the right level of care in the most supportive environment possible.…
 
Loading …

Zapraszamy w Player FM

Odtwarzacz FM skanuje sieć w poszukiwaniu wysokiej jakości podcastów, abyś mógł się nią cieszyć już teraz. To najlepsza aplikacja do podcastów, działająca na Androidzie, iPhonie i Internecie. Zarejestruj się, aby zsynchronizować subskrypcje na różnych urządzeniach.

 

icon Daily Deals
icon Daily Deals
icon Daily Deals

Skrócona instrukcja obsługi

Posłuchaj tego programu podczas zwiedzania
Odtwarzanie