Articles written by Dr Jane Gilbert

Alzheimer's Disease / Conditions / Dementia 5 May, 2019

How does a person die from dementia?

Can dementia kill? Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t just make you forgetful. It’s a serious, progressive condition which is, eventually, terminal. Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia have now overtaken heart disease to become the leading cause of death in England and Wales. The brain is responsible for more than thought, memory and understanding. It controls our …

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Dementia 26 Apr, 2019

Hormone replacement therapy and dementia

A recent study linked HRT with slight increased risk of developing dementia – but experts are telling women not to panic about the research. What is HRT? HRT or hormone replacement therapy is an important treatment for the unpleasant symptoms of the menopause in women. The levels of female hormones, like oestrogen, are lower in …

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Dementia 25 Apr, 2019

Rapidly progressive dementia

Dementia is a progressive condition, meaning that it gets worse over time. The speed of deterioration differs between individuals. Age, general health and the underlying disease causing brain damage will all affect the pattern of progression. However, for some people the decline can be sudden and rapid. The deterioration of dementia is usually slow and …

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Conditions / Dementia / Stroke 20 Apr, 2019

Stroke and Dementia

For an average of 1 in 3 people, stroke and dementia are linked. The symptoms of dementia are caused by the injury to the brain, which happens during a stroke. Many people instantly think of Alzheimer’s disease when they consider dementia, but Alzheimer’s is not the only cause of the condition. In around 20% of …

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Choosing a Carer 20 Apr, 2019

Employing a Carer Privately for Live in Personal Care

Employing a carer or personal assistant can help your loved one live independently at home. However if you decide to find live in personal care privately there is a lot to consider. What can a carer do? A carer or personal assistant can offer your loved one the support they need to lead as independent …

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Cost of Care / Live-In Care 12 Apr, 2019

Will the council pay for live-in care?

How to pay for live-in care? Live-in home care is either paid for with the support of the council or privately funded. Local authority funding for care in your own home is typically accessed through direct payments or a council funded package. People are expected to make a financial contribution to the care they need …

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Alzheimer's Disease / Dementia / Health 3 Apr, 2019

What’s the life expectancy for someone with dementia?

Each person will have an individual experience of dementia. The speed and pattern of progression of the disease can differ-but the condition is progressive and will get worse over time. Sadly, dementia will limit the life expectancy of the person affected; the condition has now overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of death in …

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Dementia / Health 2 Apr, 2019

Cognitive remediation and reminiscence therapy

Scientists are still fighting to find a cure for dementia. Frustratingly, a way to reverse the brain damage caused remains elusive; however, there are ways of improving function and wellbeing. Specialised therapeutic techniques have been developed, which may help unlock memories, improve function and boost wellbeing in people living with dementia. The names of the …

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Dementia / Elderly Parents 26 Mar, 2019

Fluid and diet management in dementia

Poor appetite, problems with food preparation, depression and difficulties with swallowing or chewing can make it a challenge for people with dementia to get the nutrition they need. Weight loss and dehydration can be a problem, especially in advanced disease, which can make your loved one frail and vulnerable to illness and infections. Food and …

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Live-In Care 25 Mar, 2019

What Home Modifications are Needed for a Live-In Carer?

A live-in carer can enable your loved one to continue living safely in the comfort and familiarity of their own home. However, there are a few practical measures and steps you should take before they move in. Dementia, illness or disability can make it impossible for someone to live independently, without the significant risk of …

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