Dementia describes a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with your daily life.  Dementia is caused by natural aging in most people, resulting in damage to or loss of nerve cells and their connections in the brain. Depending on the area of the brain that's affected by the damage, dementia can affect people differently and cause different symptoms. It isn't a specific disease, but several different diseases may cause dementia. One of those diseases is Parkinson’s Disease. Some Parkinson’s genes are connected to the Jewish people.

While Alzheimer’s disease(link to blog) is the most common cause of dementia, it is possible to have dementia without having Alzheimer’s. Dementia alone manifests differently than Alzheimer’s dementia.

Symptoms

•  Memory loss, which is usually noticed by a spouse or someone else
• Difficulty communicating or finding words
• Difficulty with visual and spatial abilities, such as getting lost while driving
• Difficulty reasoning or problem-solving
• Difficulty handling complex tasks
• Difficulty with planning and organizing
• Difficulty with coordination and motor functions
• Confusion and disorientation
• Personality changes
• Depression
• Anxiety

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms it is important to see a doctor. In Israel, see your general practitioner first.  There you will receive a referral to either a neurologist or a geriatric psychiatrist. It is very important that there be open communication between your GP and the specialist.  The specialist will ask the patient a series of questions such as “When is your birthday?”  “Is your birthday coming soon?”  The patient may also be asked to write different words and/or recite lists back to the specialist.

Treatment for slowing down the effects of dementia includes

• A healthier diet and exercise
• Stimulating mind activities
• Less alcohol intake
• Quality Sleep
• Medical cannabis for mid-late stage dementia (link to cannabis blog)

Once a dementia diagnosis is assessed, it is easier to qualify for foreign or domestic caregivers and outpatient programs at different health centers around the country.

EMA Care is here for you to assist in all dementia-related medical care.  We have qualified dieticians, trainers, and experience in attaining medical cannabis for our clients.