Dementia

Dementia in Rockledge, FL

Dementia is a general medical term describing the loss of cognitive function to the point that it affects a person’s ability to manage their daily life. 

Your risk of developing dementia increases as you get older, but it’s not a normal part of the aging process. Cognitive changes with dementia may appear for many reasons, including neurodegenerative conditions. 

What are the symptoms of dementia?

Memory loss is usually one of the first symptoms of dementia. Though it’s not uncommon to have bouts of forgetfulness when you get older, memory loss with dementia is severe, affecting the ability to recall words, names of familiar people, or recent events.

Other symptoms of dementia include:

  • Problems with communication
  • Difficulty solving problems
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Inability to handle complex tasks
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Changes in personality
  • Paranoia or hallucinations

During the early stages of dementia, symptoms are mild and manageable. However, depending on the cause, dementia symptoms worsen over time, making it harder to maintain independence.

What are the types of dementia?

Many conditions can cause dementia. Knight Neurology specializes in treating neurodegenerative types of dementia, such as:

Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It’s a progressive condition that occurs because of changes in the structure and function of the brain.

People with Alzheimer's disease develop plaque and tangles in the brain, which are clumps of protein that disrupt neural communication. 

Vascular dementia

Vascular dementia develops when there’s a slow down or block in blood flow to the brain, causing brain damage. A stroke may cause vascular dementia.

Lewy body dementia

With Lewy body dementia, brain function declines because of a buildup of protein bundles in the brain known as Lewy bodies. 

How is dementia managed?

Knight Neurology cares for many patients with progressive dementia. The neurology experts establish long-term relationships with their patients and families to ensure the patient with dementia gets the ongoing care and support they need.

Treatment for dementia may depend on the type and severity of symptoms. Your plan may include:

  • Medication that boosts brain chemicals to improve memory and thinking 
  • Occupational therapy
  • Regular exercise
  • Balanced diet

Your neurologist at Knight Neurology adjusts your plan as needed, working closely with your caretaker to ensure safety and quality of life. For long-term compassionate dementia care, call our Rockledge, FL office at (321) 345-6331 or request an appointment online.

Our Location