Dementia is a term describing a series of conditions that affect your language, thinking, and memory. At A1 Medical & Behavioral Health in St. Petersburg, Florida, Angela Harvey, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, AGPCNP-BC, can help minimize dementia symptoms and improve your cognitive function. While there is no cure for dementia, Mrs. Harvey provides comprehensive, holistic care that can enhance your quality of life. To learn more about the dementia management services available, call or schedule your in-office or telemedicine appointment online today.

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What is dementia?

Dementia is a medical term that describes the general loss of memory, thinking abilities, language, and problem-solving skills. Dementia is a progressive disease that can worsen and interfere with your day-to-day life and independence.

While dementia has no known cure, seeking intervention early can significantly improve your quality of life.

What are common dementia symptoms?

Dementia symptoms may seem subtle or undetectable at first, but over time they can impact your behavior, mood, and physical fitness. Some of the most common signs of dementia include:

  • Short-term memory loss
  • Mental decline
  • Personality changes
  • Irritability
  • Evening confusion
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Restlessness
  • Unsteady walking
  • Inability to understand language
  • Wandering or getting lost
  • Difficulty speaking

If you or someone you love has any of the symptoms listed above, an early evaluation at A1 Medical & Behavioral Health can help delay the progression of dementia.

What are the causes of dementia?

Many conditions can cause dementia, including:

Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative condition responsible for memory loss, mental decline, and more.

Vascular dementia

Vascular dementia is a condition affecting the blood vessels that supply your brain with oxygen-rich blood.

Huntington’s disease

Huntington’s disease causes the nerve cells in your brain and spinal cord to slowly degrade over time. This condition typically affects the neurological function of individuals in their 30s or 40s.

Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease is a disorder affecting your central nervous system. It can impact your movement, balance, and cognition.

How is dementia treated?

The best dementia treatment depends on the severity and progression of your condition. Mrs. Harvey may recommend cognitive tests, neurological evaluations, or bloodwork to help evaluate your dementia.

She uses a comprehensive and holistic approach to treat dementia. Along with medication management, she may recommend occupational therapy to help you build better coping strategies for your condition. She may also suggest modifying your environment to keep you safe in your home as your condition progresses.

Supplements may help improve your memory and cognitive function. Mrs. Harvey may also recommend establishing a nighttime routine, as dementia symptoms worsen at night. Regular exercise also counters restlessness and protects brain function.

To learn more about dementia management, call A1 Medical & Behavioral Health or schedule your consultation online today.