When a loved one begins to show signs of dementia, it can feel overwhelming and sometimes heartbreaking. However, it’s important to understand that dementia isn’t one disease but refers to several conditions with symptoms that impact a person’s ability to manage daily living.
Mixed dementia is when an individual has more than one type of dementia—usually Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. Diagnosing what type of dementia a loved one has is a critical first step in providing the right care and support.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term that describes cognitive decline that interferes with a person’s ability to carry out activities of daily living. There are various types of dementia, including:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
Each type of dementia has its own cause and symptoms. However, in some cases, a person can have more than one type of dementia simultaneously.
What Is Mixed Dementia?
Mixed dementia occurs when an individual has a combination of two or more types of dementia. The most common combination is Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. However, other combinations, such as Alzheimer’s and Lewy body dementia, are possible.
Mixed dementia involving Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia results in a mix of memory challenges associated with Alzheimer’s paired with issues linked to poor blood flow in the brain.
Mixed dementia involving Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia results in memory issues alongside movement symptoms or visual hallucinations.
Causes & Risk Factors of Mixed Dementia?
Mixed dementia develops when different risk factors for individual types of dementia overlap. Some contributing factors include:
- Age: The likelihood of mixed dementia increases with age.
- Family history: Genetic predispositions to dementia and stroke.
- Lifestyle and health conditions: Such as high blood pressure and smoking.
- Brain changes: Traumatic brain injury.
Understanding these causes can help families and caregivers explore potential preventative measures or early interventions.
Symptoms of Mixed Dementia
Because mixed dementia combines features from various types, symptoms may vary or overlap and can include:
- Short-term memory loss
- Difficulty with daily tasks
- Struggles with speech or communication
- Changes in mood, personality, and behavior
If you notice these signs in a loved one, consult a healthcare professional. Diagnosing mixed dementia may require brain imaging scans, cognitive assessments, and a thorough review of medical and family history.
Living with Mixed Dementia
While a definitive diagnosis can be difficult, identifying the presence of multiple dementia types is crucial to managing care effectively. If a loved one is diagnosed with mixed dementia, there are steps you can take to help them:
- Focus on maintaining routines to create a sense of familiarity.
- Engage in activities that promote cognitive and physical activity, such as puzzles, short walks, or music therapy.
- Prioritize a heart-healthy diet, as it may also benefit brain health.
Mental & Emotional Health
Mixed dementia affects more than just cognitive abilities—it also impacts emotional well-being. Reach out for professional counseling, join dementia support groups, or explore creative therapies that can improve a loved one’s mood and reduce their anxiety.
Tips for Caregivers
Caring for someone with mixed dementia brings unique challenges. However, it’s possible to offer meaningful and compassionate care with the right tools and support. Here are some tips for caregivers:
- Practice patience: Dementia is a progressive disease, so adaptability and patience are key to coping with changes in symptoms.
- Stay educated: Learn about the specific challenges associated with the types of dementia your loved one has. Understanding makes it easier to handle difficult days.
- Communicate gently: Use simple, clear language, and focus on non-verbal cues where possible.
- Build a care team: You can’t do it alone. Seek support from healthcare providers and respite care services.
- Prioritize your well-being: Caregiving can be demanding, so don’t neglect your own health and needs. Joining support networks for caregivers can help you feel less alone.
Memory Care
If caring for someone with mixed dementia becomes overwhelming, know that it’s okay to seek extra help. Memory care communities are specifically designed for those with dementia, and they offer tailored support that can greatly alleviate the challenges of caring for loved ones at home.
Compassionate Memory Care
While you can’t lessen the challenges of mixed dementia, an accurate diagnosis can help provide the right treatment and care for maintaining the quality of life for those affected. Families and caregivers can play an essential role in navigating this journey with support from memory care.
Want to learn more about caring for a loved one with mixed dementia? Contact Brooklyn Pointe to explore how our memory care services can help support your family.
