Dementia is a common disease among the elderly, with various causes and symptoms, but can be prevented or delayed to some extent through proper diet and lifestyle habits. This article will outline the symptoms and causes of dementia in the elderly, and briefly introduce some treatment methods and beneficial foods.
### Symptoms of Dementia
– Memory impairment: Patients may frequently forget recent events, even with reminders. – Difficulty in language expression: Difficulty finding words when speaking, unclear expression, or repeating the same question. – Vision changes: Early signs may include decreased vision and weakened sense of familiar surroundings. – Cognitive confusion: Inability to recognize familiar people or common items, behavior resembling that of a child. – Personality changes: Personality may become irritable, suspicious, or lacking in security, unlike before.
### Causes of Dementia
– Brain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, are common causes characterized by progressive cognitive decline. – Cerebrovascular issues, multiple minor or major strokes can trigger dementia. – Genetic factors, some cases show a familial tendency, but the specific genetic pattern is unclear. – Toxicity and substance abuse, such as alcohol poisoning, heavy metal exposure, can also lead to dementia.
### Overview of Treatment Methods
– Traditional Chinese medicine, by adjusting internal functions to inhibit disease progression. – Gene therapy, exploring repairing or replacing damaged genes through gene technology. – Improving brain metabolism drugs, such as ginkgo biloba extract, can promote brain health. – Nutrition and diet, emphasizing balanced intake of essential fatty acids, vitamin B12, folic acid, recommending whole grains, deep-sea fish, vegetables, and fruits.
### Prevention and Dietary Suggestions
Foods like millet, spinach, broccoli, walnuts, and oats are recommended for their rich nutrients beneficial to the brain, including vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, for preventing or slowing down dementia. Additionally, maintaining social activities and moderate exercise are important components of preventive strategies.
In conclusion, understanding the symptoms and causes of dementia in the elderly, taking appropriate preventive measures and treatment methods, and focusing on dietary health are crucial for maintaining cognitive function in the elderly.
