The Effects Of Dementia, Cognitive Decline, And Mood Swings On Quality Of Life

The brain significantly impacts cognitive and physical function as one ages. Some people may develop dementia, a label for various illnesses that cause cognitive decline in the brain. Understanding dementia can provide insight into the potential challenges it can present in daily life for those impacted and their loved ones, as well as ways to find support when living with the condition. 

Dementia can negatively affect daily life and relationships

Speak to a licensed therapist

What is dementia? 

Dementia is an umbrella term for various neurological conditions that affect memory, thinking, behavior, and daily tasks. While some memory loss can be a typical part of aging, dementia indicates a more severe decline in cognitive functions that can disrupt daily life. 

The effects of dementia and cognitive decline are not limited to the individual; family, friends, and caregivers may also face difficulties. For instance, a person with dementia may struggle with familiar tasks like managing finances or remembering important dates, which can cause stress and confusion for themselves and others. 

Despite the challenges dementia can cause, symptom management treatments and support options may reduce symptom severity or allow individuals to manage difficulties healthily. A treatment plan may help individuals maintain their quality of life and connect with their support networks. 

How does dementia develop?

Dementia arises from a combination of factors that result in cognitive deterioration, impacting memory, cognition, and social skills. Dementia is not a single disease but a general term for a decline in cognitive function that interferes significantly with daily life. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of progressive dementia.

Early signs of dementia 

These changes are more severe than typical age-related changes but do not yet disrupt daily life. However, not all individuals with MCI develop dementia. For some, the symptoms remain stable, and others may regain their cognitive abilities. MCI occurs in dementia but is not unique to it. 

Factors influencing dementia development

Various risk factors, including the following, can influence the process leading to dementia: 

• Genetic predisposition: Some individuals have genetic mutations that increase the likelihood of developing conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
• Age: The risk of dementia increases as one grows older, particularly after age 65. However, some people may develop Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia at a younger age. 
• Cardiovascular health: Heart-related risk factors such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol can hinder the brain's blood flow and damage its vessels, contributing to cognitive decline.
• Brain injury: Severe head trauma may increase the chances of developing dementia.

Awareness of these factors may help individuals create strategies to prevent cognitive decline and maintain brain health with aging.

Dementia symptoms: Cognitive, mood, and behavioral changes

Recognizing the symptoms of dementia often involves observing changes in cognitive abilities, mood, and behavior. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and often affect a person's ability to perform everyday tasks.

• Experiencing confusion or disorientation in familiar surroundings
• Struggling to remember recent events or conversations
• Having trouble expressing thoughts or following conversations
• Engaging in repetitive behaviors or becoming agitated easily
• Having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
• Difficulty making decisions or solving problems
• Changes in personality or social behavior, such as withdrawal from social activities
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Difficulty recognizing familiar faces or objects

Symptoms of dementia can vary in severity and may fluctuate from day to day. Some days may be more manageable than others, but the symptoms tend to worsen as the disease progresses. In addition, symptoms of dementia can be different for each person because there are various types of dementia, each with its own set of symptoms.

The effects of dementia symptoms on quality of life

Dementia can significantly affect daily living for individuals and their families. These changes may cause emotional, social, and physical challenges, which may reduce the quality of life for those affected.

Increased risk of getting lost or being in dangerous situations

Individuals with dementia may become disoriented, even in familiar surroundings. This confusion can lead to them getting lost, potentially finding themselves in unsafe situations. For example, a person might wander away from home from a familiar store and be unable to return without help. In some cases, someone with dementia may mistake a stranger's house for their own and may benefit from constant supervision to ensure their safety.

Strained relationships due to misunderstanding or miscommunication

Miscommunication may strain relationships as dementia progresses. Not being able to convey thoughts clearly may lead to misunderstandings with caregivers and loved ones, sometimes resulting in conflict or emotional distress. Caregivers can exercise patience and empathy to reduce the chances of arguments or distress. In addition, they may recognize that behavior changes in individuals with dementia result from the condition and not intentional actions.

Increased dependence on others for basic tasks

As dementia affects thinking skills and other cognitive abilities, individuals often require more support with routine tasks like dressing, eating a healthy diet, and personal hygiene. This increased dependence can affect the person's sense of independence and dignity. Encouraging independence where possible, such as allowing them to choose their daily outfit or participate in simple meal preparations with guidance, may help a person maintain a sense of autonomy despite the challenges posed by the condition.

Fatigue and irritability from sleep disturbances

Sleep problems associated with dementia, such as insomnia or waking up frequently during the night, can lead to fatigue and irritability. These sleep challenges not only affect the individual with dementia but can also disrupt the sleep of caregivers. In addition, persistent sleep disturbances may worsen cognitive decline and behavioral symptoms in individuals with dementia, further affecting their overall well-being and quality of life.

Increased risk of accidents or injury due to forgetfulness or confusion

Forgetfulness and confusion can cause accidents that might result in injuries or other health complications. For instance, forgetting to turn off a running faucet could lead to water damage in the home, and leaving candles unattended might result in a fire hazard. 

Financial strain due to the need for additional care and support

Dementia often requires additional care, which can be expensive. The cost of professional care services, home modifications, and medical expenses can burden families financially. In addition to direct costs, families may also face indirect financial challenges, such as loss of income due to caregiving responsibilities or having to reduce working hours to provide adequate support for their loved one with dementia. Families may seek financial assistance and explore available resources to alleviate the financial strain associated with dementia care.

Decreased ability for hobbies or activities once enjoyed

Hobbies and activities can become challenging due to cognitive decline. The loss of these pleasures may reduce overall happiness and fulfillment in life. Not being able to participate in activities that were once enjoyed may also contribute to a sense of isolation and decreased social interactions, further affecting emotional well-being. 

Finding alternative ways to adapt hobbies or introducing new activities that work with the individual's current abilities may help them maintain a sense of purpose and enjoyment despite the challenges of dementia. Dementia symptoms can negatively affect all aspects of life for individuals, loved ones, and caregivers. However, these symptoms may be manageable with support and treatment plans. 

Managing the effects of dementia on daily life

Healthcare providers may prescribe treatments targeting memory problems, mood disorders, or sleep disturbances associated with dementia. They can also assess individual cases, which may uncover treatable conditions contributing to cognitive decline. Coordinated care can improve a patient’s quality of life and potentially slow the progression of dementia.

In addition to medication, therapeutic interventions like cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) may benefit those with cognitive symptoms. CST involves activities and exercises that may improve memory and problem-solving skills. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may also be helpful for emotional challenges like depression and stress. 

Dementia can negatively affect daily life and relationships

Speak to a licensed therapist

Seeking support online

Coping with the progression of dementia can lead to a sense of grief and loss, not only for the individual but also for their family members who witness these changes firsthand. Caregivers may benefit from access to support, as their mental well-being can impact the care they provide. However, some people may avoid in-person therapy due to a busy schedule or financial challenges. In these cases, an online therapy platform might be more accessible. 

Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp may provide support to individuals with dementia and their caregivers who may be experiencing mental health challenges. Through an online platform, clients can choose a session time that fits their schedule, including outside of standard business hours. In addition, online therapy is often more cost-effective than face-to-face options without insurance.

Studies show that internet-based therapy programs can reduce mental burnout and improve the quality of life for clients. In the study, telehealth employees who completed online counseling were over 26% more likely than the control group to report lessened burnout.