Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care in New Jersey
There are some things to be expected as you get older, but losing your memory is not one of them. Early signs of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are usually written off as a symptom of aging, but this is not true. If you are experiencing symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, it’s important to receive medical treatment as soon as possible.
Learn more about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease care in East Orange and Newark, NJ, at the Nirvana Healthcare Management Services primary care locations: Salerno Medical Associates, Metropolitan Medical Group, Roseville Medical Society, and North Ward Medical Arts. Treatments are also available through CHOP/SHOP which provides house visits to eligible patients.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is a series of general symptoms associated with memory dysfunction. These symptoms are usually severe enough to impact your daily life and your relationships. Dementia is caused by damage to your brain cells that allow you to communicate, think, and feel. Different types of dementia can be caused by factors such as Alzheimer’s disease, blockages in the brain, or additional health problems like thyroid issues or vitamin deficiencies.
There are a variety of signs that indicate you may be experiencing early dementia, including:
- Problems with short-term memory
- Having a hard time keeping track of everyday items
- Forgetting about appointments and paying bills on time
- Inability to plan or prepare meals
Symptoms will usually start slowly, but they will gradually get worse over time. That’s why it’s so important to seek out proper medical treatment as soon as you start experiencing symptoms. Depending on the cause, you may be able to get the treatment you need to restore your cognitive function.
About Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, making up about 60 to 80% of dementia cases. It occurs when your brain changes, creating the cell damage that induces dementia symptoms. The most common early sign of Alzheimer’s disease is the inability to remember new information. As the condition worsens, individuals will start to present behavioral changes and confusion. This will eventually impact your ability to speak, swallow, or walk.
Your chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease may be greater if the following conditions apply to you:
- Increasing age
- Individuals who are ages 65 and older
- Susceptibility to younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease
If you believe you may be developing Alzheimer’s, don’t wait to receive medical treatment. Early diagnosis will give you the time you need to prepare for what’s to come.
How We Can Help
At Nirvana Healthcare Management Services, we understand that dementia and Alzheimer’s disease symptoms can change and vary over time. Our neurologists are here to assist you in finding a course of care that works best for you. By diving into your medical history, changes in thinking, changes in daily function, and your behaviors, we can begin to determine which type of dementia may be present. You may also be subject to additional testing methods like physical examinations or lab tests so we can create the best course of treatment.
Early detection and diagnosis of dementia and Alzheimer’s symptoms will give you and your provider the time you need to look for treatment options. Although there is no treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, you can still lessen dementia symptoms through a variety of options, including occupational therapy and medication.
Learn More about Dementia Care in NJ
Nirvana Healthcare Management Services aims to encourage patients to be proactive about their health. We want to help you get the treatment you need through friendly, reliable, and trusted service. If you’re in Essex County, NJ area looking for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease care, contact us today to schedule an appointment.