Does Dementia Run in Families? Everything You Need to Know
47.5 million people worldwide are currently living with dementia. Each year 7.7 million new cases are diagnosed.
According to a 2015 poll by AARP, the National Alliance for Caregiving, and the Public Policy Institute, 39.8 million Americans were providing unpaid care to an adult with dementia.
While there are many people living with dementia, does dementia run in families? It's already scary enough to watch a loved one suffer through dementia.
But it's downright terrifying to wonder, "is dementia hereditary in families?" To help you understand dementia better and take the right steps, keep reading.
We're sharing everything you need to know about dementia.
Does Dementia Run in Families
There are four types of dementia that are most common. But the most important thing is that dementia is rarely hereditary, no matter which type of dementia someone is diagnosed with.
Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia. It affects between 50% and 70% of all dementia patients.
The most common risk factor is age. Alzheimer's is not hereditary at all.
Dementia with Lewy Bodies (LBD)
LBD is actually two diseases. It's a combination of Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy Bodies.
It's very rare that LBD cases are hereditary. Only about 10% of cases are tied to hereditary.
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
The second most common form of dementia among elderly people. While considered rare, it's more common to get FTD through hereditary factors than those with Vascular dementia.
Vascular Dementia
It's extremely rare that vascular dementia is caused by a genetically-inherited disorder.
Early Onset Vs Later Onset Dementia
Early onset dementia occurs when the patient is diagnosed before age 65. While rare, it is more likely for Alzheimer's to run in these families.
Your risk for Alzheimer's is significantly lowered if a relative is diagnosed after age 65.
The Importance of Recognizing Dementia Symptoms
It's important to recognize the signs of dementia. Especially if you are exhibiting signs of early onset dementia.
Early Diagnosis Means Better Treatment Options
The sooner you're accurately diagnosed, the better quality of life you can lead. Your doctors can test for dementia.
Early Diagnosis can treat and reverse conditions which can help reduce symptoms and improve brain function.
The earlier you're diagnosed, the better chance you have of being accurately diagnosed and treated. You'll have time to make more informed decisions and have better options for treatment.
Dementia Symptoms
Two-thirds of dementia patients are victims, though doctors are unsure of why. Recognizing dementia symptoms helps ensure your loved ones get help straight away.
Words and Memory Changes
If you find a loved one is suddenly finding it more difficult to find the right words to express themselves, it may be a sign of dementia. So too are memory changes where they can recall something in the past but have difficulty remembering something that just happened.
Mood Changes
Mood changes such as suddenly changing from being shy to outgoing is another sign. So are apathy and depression.
Repetition and Refusal to Face Changes
Repeating the same tasks or answering the same question are also signs of dementia. It's also incredibly scary for people to recognize something is wrong. They may try to cover by refusing to accept or face changes in their life.
Difficulty Following Things
Difficulties with following directions and conversations are common signs as well.
Get Help
Does dementia run in families? Fortunately, it's rare that it does.
But if you're caring for someone with dementia by yourself, it can be extremely difficult and stressful on your own health and well being.
Getting help can make a dramatic difference for both you and the patient. Click here to learn what a difference a senior caregiver can make on both your lives.
