DAW 2019: FAQs on dementia answered – part two

In our third blog this Dementia Action Week, we answer some more frequently asked questions about dementia. You can read part one of our Q+As here.

Is there a cure for dementia?

As dementia is caused by different diseases, it is unlikely that there will be a single cure. Research carried out is aimed at finding cures for dementia-causing diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, and huge strides have been made in understanding how these different diseases cause damage in the brain.

You can read about the areas that researchers are working on and their findings so far, on the NHS website.

Does dementia only affect older people?

Whilst it’s true that dementia mainly affects older people, it is a common misconception that dementia only affects the elderly. Dementia is not a consequence of growing old, but the risk of developing dementia does increase with age.

How can I reduce my risk of dementia?

Taking preventative measures is key. Research has shown that risk factors for heart disease and stroke – such as raised blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and smoking – are all risk factors for dementia. According to the NHS website, by modifying or changing these risk factors in mid-life, the risk of dementia could be reduced by up to 30%.

Where to turn to when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia

Our specially trained CareGivers provide family carers with some much-needed respite but there are also a number of services available to you that provide advice and support. A few of these include:

Alzheimer’s Society – the national charity has a wealth of material online which covers all of the diseases that cause dementia, not just Alzheimer’s. You can also call the charity’s National Dementia Helpline on 0300 222 1122.