Dementia is common among the elderly population, and its incidence increases with age. This condition can lead to a series of physical manifestations, and understanding these symptoms is crucial for early identification. Patients may experience significant memory loss, especially forgetting details in daily life and struggling to recall them later. Communication becomes challenging, with difficulty in finding words and expressing intentions clearly. Moreover, they may feel disoriented in terms of time and place, even forgetting the way home. Cognitive decline and impaired judgment are also common symptoms, making it difficult to solve simple math problems. Emotional fluctuations occur, with rapid shifts between different emotions and sometimes even hallucinations.
When dealing with dementia, the role of family members is particularly important. Firstly, patience is needed to observe and assist in correcting the patient’s forgetful behavior, helping them maintain memory through repeated practice of daily life skills. Care must be meticulous, following the elderly person’s habits, creating a safe and comfortable environment, and avoiding adding to their cognitive load. Continuous emotional communication has a positive effect on maintaining memory and emotional stability, and reminiscing about past happy times can evoke positive emotions. Encouraging moderate exercise is beneficial not only for blood circulation and slowing disease progression but also for enhancing parent-child relationships. For patients with severe symptoms, wearing a tracking device can effectively prevent wandering. Proper dietary planning with a focus on balanced nutrition and reduced intake of stimulating foods is equally crucial in alleviating symptoms. Home environment layout should prioritize safety, being attentive to potential risks, similar to caring for children.
In terms of diet, millet is rich in vitamin B group and amino acids, contributing to brain health; spinach’s antioxidant components promote brain cell metabolism; houttuynia cordata benefits memory improvement; walnuts are known for their alpha-linolenic acid that enhances brain health; oats are hailed as the “brain’s grain” with soluble fiber beneficial for cardiovascular health; traditional Chinese herb Ophiopogon japonicus nourishes and supports brain health. These foods can assist in improving dementia symptoms to some extent.
Overall, a comprehensive lifestyle adjustment and dietary management can help alleviate the progression of dementia to a certain degree and enhance the patient’s quality of life.
