Complications of Dementia
Dementia is an all-encompassing name for a number of diseases that cause two major cognitive issues: memory loss and impaired judgment. The loss of these important brain functions can make life difficult and dangerous for an elderly individual. Daily activities such as paying bills or driving a vehicle may become impossible without assistance. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the leading causes of dementia, followed by vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia.
While some slight memory loss is natural as a person ages, dementia leads to extreme cases of brain function decline. Significant memory loss can occur as early as 50 years of age; however it is more common for Alzheimer’s and other medical conditions to emerge around 65 years.
Cognitive and Psychological Changes from Dementia
The complications of dementia can vary depending on the severity and type of disease that affects an individual. The following side effects are most common in patients suffering from dementia:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty communicating
- Disorientation
- Personality changes
- Paranoia
- Inappropriate behavior
Since dementia generally affects older individuals, it is wise to develop a preemptive plan for when your loved one becomes unable to take care of him- or herself. This may include creating a financial plan or establishing a new housing situation with the help of a legal advisor.
Contact an Alzheimer’s Disease Planning Attorney Today
Alzheimer’s disease and other conditions involving memory loss can cause your loved one to lose the ability to make sound, logical choices. The attorneys at Peck Ritchey, LLC, are well-versed in protecting families dealing with elder law litigation after dementia affects the quality of life for an elderly loved one. For more information on how our firm can help you establish a plan for your family, please call (312) 201-0900 today.