Early Onset Dementia and Non Pharmalogical Treatment: A Case Report
Introduction: Early-onset dementia (EOD), defined as dementia occurring before the age of 65, leads to progressive cognitive and functional decline that disrupts patients’ productivity, family roles, and social well-being. With limited pharmacological efficacy, non-pharmacological approaches are increasingly recognized as essential to improve patients’ quality of life. Methods: This report describes a 59-year-old female presenting with severe cognitive impairment and daily functional decline. Clinical evaluation involved psychiatric interviews, physical examinations, and standardized cognitive assessments, including the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), and Barthel Index. Written consent was obtained from the family. Results: The patient displayed severe memory loss, disorientation, and inability to perform basic activities. Cognitive testing confirmed MMSE: 0, CDR: 18, and Barthel Index: 40, indicating severe dementia with high dependence. No prior psychiatric or neurological illness was reported. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as cognitive rehabilitation, stimulation, and training, were identified as effective in maintaining residual abilities, delaying progression, and improving well-being. Conclusion: EOD requires early recognition and comprehensive management due to its profound personal and social impact. Although curative options are unavailable, non-pharmacological therapies offer meaningful benefits by enhancing cognitive function, supporting independence, and improving quality of life for patients and families.
Introduction
Early-onset dementia, a debilitating neurological condition affecting younger individuals, has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its significant impact on patients, families, and society as a whole. While dementia is often associated with the elderly, early-onset dementia poses unique challenges for patients who are diagnosed in their 40s or 50s, as they are typically in the prime of their careers and may have young families to care for[1].
The symptoms of early-onset dementia, which can include memory loss, difficulty with language and communication, changes in mood or behavior, and a decline in cognitive abilities, can have a devastating effect on both the individual and their loved ones. In addition to the emotional toll, early-onset dementia can also have significant financial implications due to the loss of income and increased healthcare costs. It is essential that healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers collaborate to improve early detection methods, develop effective treatments, and provide support services tailored specifically to the unique needs of early-onset dementia patients and their families. This growing issue demands attention and resources in order to address the complex medical, social, and economic challenges that arise from early-onset dementia. As such, raising public awareness and fostering a deeper understanding of early-onset dementia is crucial to enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals and ensuring they receive the appropriate care and support they so desperately need[2],[3].
Early-onset dementia is a pressing concern that requires collaborative efforts from healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers to ensure those affected receive the necessary resources, support, and attention. Overall, it is important to recognize the significant impact of early-onset dementia on individuals and society as a whole. By recognizing the importance of early-onset dementia, we can work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society that prioritizes the well-being of all its members, regardless of age or cognitive ability. Raising awareness and fostering a deeper understanding of early-onset dementia is crucial to enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals and ensuring they receive the appropriate care, support, and interventions tailored to their specific needs [3]–[5]
Efforts to combat this debilitating disease must be a top priority for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers alike. We must work towards a society that recognizes the importance of early-onset dementia and prioritizes the resources necessary to address this issue. In summary, early-onset dementia is a complex issue that requires comprehensive solutions to address the medical, social, and economic challenges it poses. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected and build a brighter future for everyone impacted by this challenging condition. In order to achieve this goal, it is essential for us to collaborate across sectors and disciplines, pooling our collective knowledge and expertise in pursuit of innovative approaches to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of early-onset dementia. We must continue to prioritize research, advocacy, and funding in order to address this pressing issue. By working together, we can ensure that individuals with early-onset dementia receive the necessary care and support to maintain their quality of life[3]–[5].
Method
This report is a case report from a patient who has been given an explanation and received consent regarding a psychiatric interview, physical examination and support, interventions, case discussion presentations, and the confidentiality of all patient personal information.
Case
Mrs. S, 59 years old, was admitted to the Kenanga Room at Lawang Mental Hospital on 06/03/2023. When greeted and asked a question, the patient responded with a flat, expressionless face and said "yes" without looking towards the examiner. The patient was able to mention her name as Mrs. S but then appeared to want to say something and remained silent. The examiner had to repeat the same question several times before the patient said, "I forgot," when asked about her age, place, and date of birth. The patient also did not know the location of the person accompanying her. The patient also forgot how to perform daily activities such as eating, drinking, bathing, etc. Several times seen standing and walking back and forth aimlessly.
The patient only remembered the name of a rice scoop. According to the family, the patient has been experiencing memory problems for about 3 years, but they cannot remember exactly when this change occurred. Initially, the patient would forget where she put things, but over time, she began to forget how to perform activities and became difficult to communicate with.
Mrs. S did not have a history of mental illness before and never received antipsychotics or any psychopharmacotherapy before. Meanwhile, from his family, no history of diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, stroke, or previous head injury was found. There is no family history of dementia. The patient regularly consumes one cup of coffee per day. Mrs. S's last education was elementary school, and she has been a housewife since she married. From her personality, she is quiet, reserved, and tends to keep problems to herself.
With the results of the MMSE supporting examination: 0 (Severe Cognitive Impairment), CDR: 18 (Severe Dementia), Barthel Index: 40 (Severe Dependencies)
Dementia is a condition in which a person experiences a significant decline in cognitive abilities, such as memory, language, abstract thinking, and reasoning. Early onset dementia (EOD) is a condition in which a person experiences a decline in cognitive abilities before the age of 65.
The causes of EOD may vary depending on the
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