FAQs

No, dementia is a broad term used to describe symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia but is a specific disease characterised by plaques and tangles in the brain.

While both are neurodegenerative diseases, they are distinct conditions. Parkinson’s mainly affects movement, while Alzheimer’s impacts memory and cognition. However, they share some common features, including protein build-up in the brain.

Genetics can play a role in both, but having a family member with Alzheimer’s or dementia doesn’t guarantee you will develop it. Certain genetic factors increase risk, but lifestyle factors also influence onset.

Early in the disease, some patients may recognise their memory issues, but as the disease progresses, awareness diminishes.

Yes, globally and in South Africa, cases are increasing due to ageing populations and better awareness and diagnoses of the disease.

No, currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s. However, research is ongoing to find treatments that can slow or halt its progression.

Yes, treatments in South Africa focus on managing symptoms, including medication to slow memory loss, and therapies to improve quality of life.

Yes, in advanced stages, Alzheimer’s can cause seizures in some patients, though this is less common.

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s, adopting a healthy lifestyle—such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, mental stimulation, and managing risk factors like diabetes and hypertension—can reduce the risk.

A sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, smoking, and lack of mental stimulation are linked to higher risks. Conversely, a healthy lifestyle can reduce the chances of developing the disease.

After diagnosis, the average life expectancy is 4 to 8 years, though some people can live up to 20 years depending on their overall health.

Yes, dementia can lead to death, often due to complications such as infections, falls, or malnutrition in advanced stages.

Yes, people with diabetes are at higher risk of developing dementia. Poorly controlled diabetes can damage blood vessels, including those in the brain, which can lead to cognitive decline.

Yes, especially in the later stages, dementia can cause hallucinations and delusions, particularly in people with Lewy body dementia.

In most cases, dementia cannot be reversed. However, some forms of dementia, such as those caused by vitamin deficiencies or infections, can be treated if caught early.

Yes, while rare, early-onset dementia can affect people under the age of 65, often in their 40s or 50s.

Yes, paranoia and delusions are common symptoms, especially as the disease progresses.

Behavioural changes include memory loss, confusion, difficulty communicating, mood swings, and eventually, loss of independence.

Life expectancy varies, with many living between 3 to 10 years after diagnosis, but some may live longer depending on the type of dementia and overall health.

It affects memory, thinking, and social abilities. Over time, individuals lose the ability to care for themselves, communicate, and recognize loved ones.

Memory care refers to specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, focusing on creating a safe and supportive environment.

A diagnosis of dementia, along with the need for supervised care and assistance with daily living tasks, typically qualifies someone for memory care.

When a loved one’s dementia begins to affect daily life, safety, and their ability to care for themselves, memory care should be considered.

Memory care facilities specialise in dementia care, offering a structured environment and staff trained to handle cognitive issues, while nursing homes may focus more on general medical and daily care for elderly residents.

Some facilities in South Africa allow pets, but this depends on the specific policies of the institution.  At Resthill Memory Care we believe that pets are essential for our Residents’ mental health.

Some South African medical aids cover aspects of memory care under chronic disease management, but coverage varies, and families should check with their medical aid providers.

Memory care includes 24/7 supervision, assistance with daily tasks, therapies to manage symptoms, and specialised activities to stimulate cognitive function.

A facility may ask a resident to leave if they require medical care that the facility cannot provide or if the family is unable to meet payment obligations.

In South Africa, medical expenses, including those related to memory care, may be claimed as deductions depending on the taxpayer’s medical aid contributions and income level.

Signs include wandering, confusion, inability to perform daily tasks, safety concerns, and significant cognitive decline.

Palliative care focuses on comfort and quality of life during any stage of a serious illness, while hospice care is specific to end-of-life care when treatment is no longer effective.

Palliative care can begin at any stage of a serious illness, not just at the end of life.

Focus on their comfort, manage pain, offer emotional support, and ensure their physical and psychological needs are met.

Care involves managing symptoms, providing emotional and spiritual support, ensuring dignity, and improving the quality of life for both the patient and their family.