2024-03-30 05:49:09
Guest speaker at the last meeting was Dr. C. Roks, neurologist at the ETZ in Tilburg. Dr. As a neurologist, Roks spends a large part of his time treating people with dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
March’s Alzheimer Café
Through a referral from the GP, people with memory complaints are registered at the memory clinic for an examination process. This consists of a conversation with the nurse, who carries out a number of (memory) tests. This is followed by a visit to the neurologist who will perform a number of additional tests, including a physical examination. A distinction is made in terms of age. A geriatrician can also be consulted for people over the age of 70. The geriatrician also looks at other conditions and has a broader view than the neurologist.
Depending on his findings, further investigation may be necessary, including a brain scan, blood tests and possibly an epidural injection. As much as possible, these examinations take place on one day, depending on what the person involved wishes and/or can handle. This is followed by the results interview. If dementia is diagnosed, the guidance process will be discussed with those involved, of course depending on the wishes of the person involved.
When does dementia occur?
Dementia is the name for a combination of symptoms (a syndrome) in which the brain can no longer process information properly. Dementia is a collective name for more than fifty brain diseases. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and Lewy body dementia are common. Vascular dementia is caused by damage to the vessels, possibly caused by high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders, diabetes or TIAs, strokes. The form of dementia determines the course of the disease.
After the diagnosis of dementia has been made, the GP is informed and a guidance program can be initiated. The practice assistant or community nurse and a case manager can be involved. In addition to caring for the person with dementia, they also pay attention to the loved ones of the person with dementia. The effect of medication is difficult to determine. For a small proportion of patients, medication/patches can stabilize the disease for a short period of time. Use of medication can also cause side effects and there is no insight into the long-term effects. Naturally, a lot of research is being done into this, but no effective medicines are expected in the short term. Regarding lifestyle rules, Dr. Roks indicates that in addition to exercise (the most important rule of life!), not smoking, a healthy and varied diet and moderate alcohol consumption have a positive effect.
By the way, this applies to everyone.
With regard to driving, Dr. Roks indicates that if there is dementia, this must be reported to the CBR. The CBR checks whether you can still drive safely. This is often done by taking a driving test in your own car. With dementia in the early stages, you may still be able to continue driving if there is a statement from the CBR. The driver’s license will then be extended for 1 year, after which a re-examination will take place. An examination by a neurologist may also take place. (this is not their own neurologist) Some people decide themselves or together with their loved ones to stop driving. In any case, this is a difficult decision because it means losing a lot of independence.
After the break, the question is asked what an epidural has to do with dementia. Dr. Roks explains that cerebrospinal fluid is taken from the back. The fluid that is drained can be examined for markers that can diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Blood tests can also show whether other diseases are playing a role.
The question is what the person with dementia himself or herself notices about the disease. This varies from person to person and also from the diagnosis. It is clear that you cannot do anything yourself to prevent dementia. It is difficult to say whether heredity plays a role. Some forms of dementia may occur more often in families, but little is known about this. It is generally known that alcohol damages the brain. Diet can also influence dementia. A lot of research is being done into this. The effect of puzzles/memory training has not been proven. Definitely keep doing it if you enjoy it!
After a word of thanks to Dr. Roks for his clear explanation and information, the evening ends by singing the closing song “It’s the little things that matter”. For more information about dementia, please refer to the Alzheimer Netherlands website www.alzheimer-nederland.nl
Next meeting
The next Alzheimer Café meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 16. The theme is: Informal caregiver speaks. The guest that evening is Sjef Potters. Sjef and his wife have been informal caregivers for his mother-in-law for many years. A confrontational introduction to Alzheimer’s disease followed. It was a confusing, emotional but also rewarding time that they went through together. Sjef takes you through this time and will tell you about what they experienced. Of course, after the break there will be plenty of room to ask questions and share experiences.
Come listen and join the discussion at the Alzheimer Café
The Alzheimer Café is a meeting place for people with dementia, young and old, for family members, friends, care providers and other interested parties. Fellow sufferers can mean a lot to each other, they recognize what the other person is experiencing and what this means for him or her. The support that those present give each other is of great value, and those present go home with a satisfied feeling.
Entry from 7.30 pm. Program duration from 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM. Location De Coppele, Prunusstraat 69, Oisterwijk. Registration is not necessary.
More about dementia-friendly Oisterwijk
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