Monday, 16 March 2020

Facts about Alcoholic Dementia

In most cases of dementia, its cause can be attributed to genetic factors. However, there is also a type of dementia that is induced by the accumulative effects of years of alcohol abuse. This type of dementia is known as alcoholic dementia, which is essentially a form of alcohol related brain damage. 

How can drinking alcohol trigger dementia? 

Everyone knows that consuming excessive amounts of alcohol isn’t healthy. When done over a long period of time, it can have a toxic effect on both the nerve and brain cells. Excessive drinking can result in significant damage to blood vessels and is the main culprit behind vitamin B1 deficiencies too. All of these effects can culminate in the brain starting to malfunction, often with noticeable effects on an individual's memory. When this happens, alcoholic dementia is often to blame. 

How common is alcoholic dementia? 

Unfortunately, it’s a lot more common than one might expect. According to Dementia UK, it accounts for around 10% of all early onset cases of dementia diagnosed in adults in their 40s and 50s. 

What are the symptoms of alcoholic dementia? 

The symptoms of alcoholic dementia are similar to the symptoms of regular dementia. For example, the individual and their loved ones will likely notice that they begin having trouble with their memory and overall concentration span. There is also certain to be a decline in their ability to make decisions and plans, as well as accurately assess risk. In severe cases, personality changes are likely to occur along with emotional outbursts and a deteriorating sense of impulse control. 

How can alcoholic dementia be prevented? 

The simplest way is to avoid abusing alcohol by sticking to the guidelines of no more than 14 units of alcohol per week. The less alcohol you drink, and the less frequently you drink it, the lower your chances of developing alcoholic dementia as you age. 

Caring for a loved one with alcoholic dementia

As the problem progresses, home care and a live-in caregiver may become necessary. A good quality live-in carer will assist a senior who is suffering with alcoholic dementia to eat a balanced diet, take their medication, remain mobile, etc. 

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