Articles by Dr Jane Gilbert
Jane has over 20 years’ experience as a health writer and TV presenter. Jane writes on a wide variety of clinical and care topics – from explaining the latest studies and research to unpacking conditions and discussing treatment options. Jane holds a MBBS degree from Imperial College, London and spent seven years working in the NHS.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is a type of dementia and is caused by an interruption to the blood supply to the brain, usually caused by a number of small strokes, not by Alzheimer’s disease. What is vascular dementia? Many people use the terms dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease interchangeably, but Alzheimer’s is not the only cause of dementia. As many as one in five people affected have vascular dementia, and if you’ve never heard of it, it’s not surprising. It’s also known as multi-infarct dementia (MID) or vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) and it is actually the second most common cause of the condition. In vascular dementia, the brain is damaged by an interruption to the blood supply, usually by a number of small strokes. When the blood flow is interrupted, the brain cells do not receive the nutrients and oxygen essential for life. These so-called ‘mini’ strokes can be so minor that they’re…
The early signs of dementia
The early signs of dementia include forgetfulness, misplacing of objects, struggling to find the right words, personality changes, and confusion. We all walk into the kitchen and forget what we came for, or misplace our keys every now and then. So, what is normal forgetfulness and what could indicate that there may be a problem? Dementia is the term for a set of symptoms that include memory lapses, difficulties thinking and solving problems, impaired communication and behavioural changes. The early signs of dementia can often be subtle to begin with, but they may gradually escalate until they can affect every aspect of daily life. Dementia can affect different people in different ways, each individual is unique. However, there are some key signs to look out for: Memory loss Forgetfulness is often a significant early sign. Dementia tends to affect short-term memory more than reminiscences from the past. So, an individual…
Exercise and dementia prevention
Physical activity can improve the health of mind, body and spirit, and there’s evidence that exercise can protect against dementia. Research is confirming that staying active may help those affected by dementia to maintain their independence and boost their quality of life. Exercise helps with almost every long term condition; it can reduce the likelihood of developing dementia and the progress of Alzheimer’s disease. We all know that exercise is important for our health, it’s constantly advocated in books, blogs and on TV. But regular activity can offer more than just a fit physique. Activity can help protect the brain from dementia as we age, and slow down deterioration in people already affected. Regular exercise really is essential for a healthy body and a healthy mind. Research shows that exercise works, not only to improve the general health of people with dementia, but it also appears to improve their cognitive function,…
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Helping a Bereaved Parent Live Alone
Helping a Bereaved Parent Live Alone Losing a parent can be devastating. They raised you, and loved you, and you now face the daunting task of living without their support, while offering strength to others. Grief is an almost universal factor…
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Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary Tract Infections in the Elderly Anyone who has suffered with the burning agony of cystitis knows that urinary tract infections can be miserable, but in the elderly, they can be much more than a minor illness. Urine infections are…
Parkinson’s Disease
All about Parkinson’s Disease Finding out that a loved one is affected by Parkinson’s Disease can be overwhelming. But with medication and support, it is possible for them to continue living an active and enjoyable life. Parkinson’s disease is a…
Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment
There is no single Alzheimer’s treatment, but regular brain training, social stimulation, keeping to regular routines, and maintaining a healthy diet can all help to slow the decline. Alzheimer’s Treatment Sadly, there is still no known cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, but scientific advances have improved our understanding of the condition. New Alzheimer’s treatments are being developed, and promising research is underway. In the meantime, there are ways to slow down the decline. A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can seem hopeless and life-shattering, but it is possible to make a difference to both the quality of life and the progression of the disease. By modifying lifestyle, we can slow the rate of decline and improve memory, communication and function, so that your loved one can stay independent for longer. Brain training Challenging and stimulating the brain in the early stages of Alzheimer’s can slow down the disease progression. Playing puzzles, reading, doing a crossword…
Carer Depression
Carer depression is brought on by the constant stress, anxiety, and sometimes guilt, that come with providing care for a loved one. What is carer depression? Most carers will suffer from depression at some stage as a result of their caring duties. When you’re down, you may feel helpless and hopeless, but with support you can come through this difficult time. Caring for a loved one can be incredibly rewarding but it can also take its toll on your body and mind. As many as 3 in 5 caregivers have faced depression because of the unique challenges and stresses of the caring role. It’s understandable. It’s also very important that you take the time you need to care for yourself. Too often, carers focus all their attention on the needs of their loved one, meaning that their own work, social life and health is sidelined, leading to a real loss…
Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It is believed to account for at least half of all individuals affected, with some studies suggesting that seventy percent of all cases may be caused by Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease vs dementia The words Alzheimer’s and dementia are often used interchangeably and it can be confusing to understand the distinction. So, what is the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia? The Alzheimer’s Society defines dementia as a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. The word dementia refers to the signs and symptoms, rather than the specific causes of the condition. The symptoms include difficulties with memory, reasoning, communication and behaviour. The changes can often be very subtle in the beginning, the sort of problems that all of us may suffer occasionally, but with time they can progress to affect personality, function and…
Is Live-in Care Right For Me?
Signs that live-in care is right for you to include unsteadiness and falls, disturbances during the night and near-miss accidents. Dementia, disease and disability can all make it difficult to live safely at home. But how can you tell when…
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