The Dementia Tens

Ten Dementia Warning Signs

1.   Memory loss that interferes with daily life
2.   Challenges with planning and problem solving
3.   Difficulties with familiar tasks
4.   Confusion with time or place
5.   Visual and spatial issues
6.   Problems with words
7.   Misplacing things
8.   Decreased or poor judgment
9.   Withdrawal from work or social activities
10. Changes in mood and personality

Ten Dementia Risk Factors

1.   Age
2.   Health Factors (hypertension, heart health, diabetes, inflammation, hearing)
3.   Lifestyle Factors (sleep, diet, obesity, inactivity, smoking, stress)
4.   Family History
5.   Genetics
6.   Gender – Women
7.   African Americans/Latinos
8.   Social Isolation
9.   Lifecourse Factors (childhood, nutrition, education, poverty, rural vs. urban)
10. Traumatic Brain Injury

Ten Dementia Risk Reducers

1.   Exercise (check with your doctor first)
2.   Diet (fruits, vegetables, lean proteins)
3.   Sleep (check with your doctor before taking sleep aids)
4.   Heart/Brain Health (monitor cholesterol, blood pressure, weight)
5.   Mental Health (discuss depression with doctor, manage stress)
6.   Hearing (discuss hearing loss, treatment/aids with doctor)
7.   Social Interaction (volunteer, join groups)
8.   Continual Learning (take classes, learn a language or instrument)
9.   Brain Training (engage in new pursuits, brain games, and puzzles)
10. Helmets/Seat Belts (protect your most precious asset)

Top Ten Quality of Life Issues for Those with Dementia

1.   To continue to do things I enjoy
2.   To maintain relationships with those important to me
3.   To continue to communicate and interact with others
4.   To laugh often
5.   To feel safe
6.   To feel valued, respected, and included
7.   To continue to be physically active
8.   To have a sense of purpose
9.   To prevent loneliness and isolation
10. To continue to experience new things

Top Ten Quality of Life Issues for Dementia Caregivers

1.   Engage in regular exercise to stay healthy and fit
2.   Practice good nutrition to maintain well being and energy
3.   Get adequate sleep to rest and restore body and mind
4.   Maintain own health through doctor visits and treatment
5.   Mind mental health through counseling/stress management
6.   Socialize with others to stay engaged and refreshed
7.   Continue to participate in enjoyable activities and pastimes
8.   Pamper self to reward efforts – self-care is not selfish!
9.   Ask for and accept help from others – delegate as appropriate
10. Arrange respite care for well-deserved breaks