describe over 100 conditions that are
characterised by progressive and irreversible loss
of brain function
Interferes with normal behaviour and affects memory, language, speech attention and personality.
can lead to dependency & death
common forms are Alzheimer disease,
vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies
and frontotemporal demensia
It is an NHPA b/c it is the fourth largest
contributor overall and rates are increasing as
the population rises.
Costs
Direct
Individual
diagnosis and management
medication
Community
Medicare/PBS/PHI
Health programs
other members pay for treatment
Indirect
Individual
employ others
carers
residential care
Community
informal assistance - may have to be carer
lost productivity
gov funding for residential care
Intangible
Individual
range of emotions
when first diagnosed
can't participate in community events
Community
sadness if individual no longer
remembers who they are
death = grieve
Determinants
Biological
Age
increase in age is greatest risk factor.
Rates increase for over 65.
Sex
lewy bodies more common in males
Genetic Predisposition
family history is increase rate
Down Syndrome
appear at a greater risk
Blood Pressure
hypertension increases dementia risk
Body Weight
obesity is risk factor for Alzeihmers
Behavioural
Tobacco Use
impaired blood flow and increases vascular dementia rates
Inactivity
sedentary lifestyles contributes to the deterioration of blood vessels. Increase
vascular dimentia
Lack of Mental Stimulation
not using their mind actively may experience an increased rate of dementia
Alcohol Consumption
contributes to specific types
Alcohol dementia is one caused by excessive alcohol being consumed over a period of time
Food Intake
high Sat. fat diet is increase risk
high blood cholesterol is also a link
Physical Environment
Environmental Tobacco Smoke
exposure increase CVD by clogging blood vessels and increasing risk
Access to recreational facilities
lack exercise may be overweight
increase CVD and dementia
Transport Systems
non promoting active transport increase CVD and dementia
Access can decrease risk and promote social interactions
Quality of Air
exposing individuals to smoke, chemicals and other hazardous substances
Work Environment
an environment not facilitating physical activity may increase vascular dementia
Social
Level of Education
lower levels of education may be at a
higher risk because they aren’t using
their mind as much
Social Exclusion
less socially active people may experience an increased rate of dementia.
Health Promotion
Know the signs of dementia
provides educational
posters and brochures about
the symptoms of dementia
Living in the Memory
Loss Program
people in the early stages of
dementia and their families go to
a program with information,
advice and peer support to get
through the tough times present
and in the future