Dementia

Dementia is a term used to describe a group of progressive neurological disorders. Dementia often results in:

• Memory loss
• Cognitive loss
• Communication problems
• Motor loss (problems with movement and control) 

There are different types of Dementia including:

1. Alzheimer’s Disease – affecting memory, cognitive ability, language and spatial awareness.
2. Vascular Dementia – also known as Multi-Infarct Dementia (MID), results from small strokes. Language and communication are most affected.
3. Frontotemporal Dementia – a progressive form of Dementia affecting behaviour and personality, occuring in people aged 45-65.
4. Dementia with Lewy Bodies – resulting in poor cognitive ability and loss of motor control due to nerve cell damage.

There is currently no cure for Dementia, however, there are steps to ensure the provision of care and support to enable better management of the condition. Treatment can include talking therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, cognitive stimulation, cognitive rehabilitation – all of which provide much needed physical, mental and social interaction! 

At Jonathan Clark Physiotherapy we are working to become a Dementia friendly environment with Dementia Action Alliance. We aim to provide patients with an easy to navigate environment, providing clear signs and access to public toilets. We also endeavour to minimise clutter, provide adequate lighting and avoiding decor which may interfere with space and depth perception issues.