Dementia

Dementia and End of Life Care

Dementia is the 6^th leading cause of death in the United States. African Americans are at 4 times greater at risk of developing dementia and Hispanics are at 2 times greater risk.

Dementia is not a specific disease. It's an all encompassing term that describes a wide range of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person's ability to perform everyday activities. Alzheimer's disease accounts for approximately 70 percent of cases of dementia. Vascular dementia, which occurs after a stroke, is the second most common dementia type. In addition, there are many other types of dementia and conditions that can cause symptoms of dementia.

While the challenges of dementia can be heartbreaking, a peaceful, meaningful existence is possible even if a loved one has advanced dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. LightBridge Hospice recognized the unique needs of this population and developed a special Dementia program. This program involves training for all of the staff and volunteers to become dementia specialists, who are then able to provide the best care possible for hospice patients with dementia.