Senile dementia is a neurodegenerative disease that affects millions of people around the world. When caring for an elderly person, we tend to relate their symptoms to the consequences of aging.

However, it is important to highlight that senile dementia should not be interpreted as another consequence of old age.

In this blog we will explain what symptoms it presents, and how it can evolve over the years.

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What is senile dementia?

Dementia is a syndrome that affects our cognitive abilities. This may include memory, as well as attention, thinking, language, or judgment.

There are different diseases that can lead to senile dementia. Some of them are Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, strokes, or other disorders that cause damage or loss of nerve cells.

Early detection, as well as proper treatment and care, can make a big difference. In this way, we can not only improve the quality of life of the affected person, but also that of their family.

What is the difference between senile dementia and Alzheimer's?

Senile dementia and Alzheimer's are terms that are often confused, but there are important differences between them. Senile dementia refers to cognitive impairment that occurs in older people, while Alzheimer's is a disease that can cause dementia in people of any age, although it is more common in older people.

As Alzheimer's progresses, other symptoms may also appear, such as mood changes, difficulty communicating, confusion, and problems performing daily activities.


What symptoms does senile dementia present?

The symptoms of senile dementia vary depending on the stage of the disease we are in. Some are subtle, so we must pay special attention to the behavior of our elders.

These are the easiest symptoms of dementia to detect:

    1. Short-term memory loss.

    2. Difficulty communicating and continue a conversation.

    3. Not being able to perform everyday tasks, such as dressing, cooking or shopping.

    4. Presence of mood changessuch as depression, increased anxiety or irritability.

    5. Confusion or disorientation, especially in new, and even familiar, places.

    6. Difficulty making decisionso solve problems.

    7. Changes in personality, as well as reduction of their social circle.

    8. Judgment and reasoning problems,such as lack of judgment in risk situations. 

In many cases, these signs are related to the natural aging process, popularly called “age ailments.” Its appearance does not automatically demonstrate the presence of senile dementia, but it should raise our suspicions and pay greater attention to our parents or grandparents.

What stages is dementia divided into?

Senile dementia develops gradually, going through different phases over the years. Although the progression of the disease can vary from person to person, in general, the following three stages are described:

    1. Early phase: In this phase, the person with senile dementia may experience some mild symptoms, easily confused with conventional aging. The most common are difficulty remembering things, loss of interest in hobbies and activities that you used to do before, and even not being able to perform everyday tasks.

    2. Intermediate phase:As the disease progresses, the symptoms become more evident. These can impact the independence of the affected person, reducing their abilities to carry out daily tasks. At this point, the dementia patient usually experiences more severe memory problems, difficulties communicating, or problems making decisions. In this phase, the presence of senile dementia is more evident.

    3. Advanced phase:In this phase, the person may lose the ability to communicate and may need help with basic tasks such as eating, dressing, and bathing. The affected person may also experience changes in personality and behavior, such as aggression or apathy. In this phase, intense attention is required and the patient requires full-time care.

It is important to note that these phases are only a guide, and that the progression of the disease may vary from person to person. Some people may experience rapid decline, while others may maintain some independence for a longer period.

How to care for a person with senile dementia?

If a person experiences several symptoms for a long time, it is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

To help a person with dementia, it is important that you keep the following points in mind:

    • Be patient: Dementia can cause forgetfulness and sudden mood changes. Helps maintain a daily routine: Establishing a schedule for eating, sleeping and doing other important activities will help exercise your memory.

    • Create a calm environment: People with dementia can feel overwhelmed by noise and chaos. 

    • Provides activities adapted to their abilities: You may no longer be able to do some of the activities you used to enjoy. Help him find new hobbies that strengthen his memory, such as reading or walks.

    • Be a good listener:This is a very simple way to keep track of the disease. It will help you detect memory problems, understand how their language evolves, and notice mood changes.

    • Seek external support: It is advisable to have external help to give you support when hiring your family member. An example of this would be home care, or medication organization services from IMA Health.

As a primary caregiver, it is important that you follow the instructions of healthcare personnel, and try to adapt your environment to their new needs. Early detection and proper care will improve your quality of life, and help the rest of the family care for you.

Being aware of what we need, as well as the items we have and their condition will be of great help for polypharmacy patients.

Now it's your turn: have you checked your first aid kit yet?

Request help for people with senile dementia and other conditions

As a technology and social impact company, at IMA Health we allocate part of our profits to helping people with senile dementia and other conditions that affect their autonomy.

To facilitate taking medication, our service offers the possibility of receiving the treatment already organized in the pharmacy, at your doorstep, and at no cost.

Idoia, daughter of a patient with Alzheimer's, tells us about her experience:

"Grateful is an understatement. They send me the monthly medication for my mother with Parkinson's in a fully organized pill box, and free of charge. Both the personalized attention from IMA Health and the pharmacist is very close. Thank you. 100% recommended."

At IMA Health we have collaborating pharmacies throughout Spain, so we reach rural areas, towns and cities. In this way, we avoid travel and offer support to those with reduced mobility, or without a pharmacy in their municipality.

Alejandra follows a long-term treatment, and was looking for a way to simplify the task of preparing her medication every day:

"Excellent service, whether you are going to use it for a family member or for yourself. They send you the medication for the entire month in advance. You no longer have to worry about going to the pharmacy, and, above all, forgetting some pills. If you are a polymedicated person, you will know how annoying it is to carry 7 different blister packs of medication, and not forget any medication. With this service, you only have to worry about taking the sachets for the day, and you will not be left without taking any. dose. It is undoubtedly very useful to me, and I recommend it.”

At IMA Health we will be happy to help you. Register on our websiteor contact us to learn more about our service.

Disclaimer: At IMA we offer advice and information about our products. Consult with an expert before making any decision that may affect your health.