What Are The Long-Term Impacts of Dementia?

Dementia is a condition that presents unique difficulties for both the individual and their loved ones. It can impact various aspects of a person's life, from cognitive function to social abilities.

At KYN, we understand the complex nature of living with dementia and are dedicated to providing the highest quality dementia care and support to help families navigate this journey with compassion and dignity. We explore the long-term impacts of living with dementia and how they can affect a person's life.

Types of Dementia

There are several different types of dementia, each with its own set of symptoms and progression. The most common types of dementia include:

Alzheimer's disease

This is the most common type of dementia and is caused by a buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain that damage and kill brain cells.

Vascular dementia

This type of dementia is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to a stroke or series of mini-strokes. It is the second most common type of dementia.

Dementia with Lewy bodies

This type of dementia is caused by abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain. It can cause difficulties with staying focused and affect sleep and mobility. Each type of dementia can have different long-term impacts, but there are some common effects that are seen across all types.

Progression of Dementia

Dementia is a progressive condition, which means that it gets worse over time. The progression of dementia can vary from person to person, but it typically follows a similar pattern. In the early stages of living with dementia, a person may experience mild symptoms such as memory loss and difficulty with complex tasks. As the condition progresses, the symptoms intensify and can include:

• Difficulty with basic activities of daily living, such as dressing and bathing
• Disorientation and confusion
• Changes in mood and behaviour, such as depression and anxiety.
• Difficulty with language and communication
• Hallucinations and delusions

In the later stages of living with dementia, a person may become completely dependent on others for care. They may lose the ability to communicate, recognise loved ones, and perform basic functions such as eating and swallowing.

Long-Term Impacts of Dementia

The long-term impacts of living with dementia can be significant and far-reaching. Some of the most common long-term effects include:

Physical Health

Living with dementia can have a significant impact on a person's physical health. As the condition progresses, a person may become less mobile and more prone to falls and injuries. They may also develop other health problems such as infections, pressure sores, and malnutrition. In the later stages of living with dementia, a person may become bed-bound and require round-the-clock care. The physical effects of living with dementia can be difficult for both the person living with dementia and their caregivers. It is important to work with healthcare professionals to develop a care plan that addresses the person's physical needs and helps to maintain their quality of life.

Cognitive Function

The most well-known impact of living with dementia is on cognitive function. As the condition progresses, a person's memory, thinking, and problem-solving abilities decline. They may have difficulty with simple tasks such as making a cup of tea or remembering the names of loved ones.

In the later stages of dementia, a person may lose the ability to communicate and may not recognise their surroundings or the people around them. The cognitive effects of dementia can be difficult for both the person living with dementia and their loved ones. It is important to provide support and understanding, and to focus on the person's abilities rather than their limitations. Engaging in activities that promote cognitive function, such as puzzles and memory games, can also be beneficial.

Emotional Well-Being

Dementia can have a significant impact on a person's emotional well-being. A person may experience a range of emotions including fear, anxiety, depression, and frustration. They may also become more prone to mood swings and emotional outbursts. The emotional effects of living with dementia can be difficult for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. It is important to provide emotional support and to create a positive and nurturing environment. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress, such as music therapy and gentle exercise, can also be beneficial.

Social Relationships

Living with dementia can also have a significant impact on a person's social relationships. As the condition progresses, a person may become more withdrawn and less interested in social activities. They may have difficulty recognising friends and family members, and may become more isolated.

The social effects of living with dementia can be difficult for both the person living  with dementia and their loved ones. It is important to maintain social connections and to engage in activities that promote social interaction. This can include spending time with friends and family, joining support groups, and participating in community activities.

Financial Impact

The long-term financial impact of living with dementia can be significant. As the condition progresses, a person may require more extensive care and support, which can be costly. They may also be unable to manage their own finances, which can lead to financial hardship for themselves and their family.

It is important to plan for the financial impact of living with dementia as early as possible. This can include setting up power of attorney, creating a will, and exploring options for long-term care insurance.

KYN's Specialist Dementia Care

Living with dementia can have significant long-term impacts on a person's life. From physical health to emotional well-being, the effects of living with dementia can be far-reaching and difficult for both the person living with dementia and their loved ones.

At KYN, we recognise the profound impact that living with dementia can have. Our dedicated team is committed to providing the highest quality care, tailored to meet the unique needs of each resident.

We offer a range of engaging activities and therapies designed to promote cognitive function, emotional well-being, and social interaction. Our luxurious facilities and compassionate staff create a nurturing environment where residents can feel safe, valued, and supported throughout their journey of living with dementia.

If you or a loved one are facing the difficulties of living with  dementia, we invite you to discover the difference that specialised dementia and nursing care at KYN can make. To learn more, call KYN on +44 (0) 20 3535 1923 or email enquiries@kyn.co.uk today to arrange a brochure or visit.