Dementia affects more than 944,000 people in the UK, but not all types are the same. Dr. Kellyn Lee, CEO of The Dementia Care Hub, recently shed light on Lewy Body dementia, a less-discussed but significant form of the condition.
According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, Lewy Body dementia accounts for approximately 10 to 15 out of every 100 dementia cases, making it the third most common type after Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.
Lewy Body dementia arises when abnormal proteins accumulate in parts of the brain, disrupting normal function. “These proteins inhibit memory, everyday task performance, mood, behavior, and alertness,” Dr. Lee explains. People with this condition may experience moments of vagueness and fluctuating levels of consciousness.
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Key symptoms include severe communication difficulties, visual hallucinations, and ‘spontaneous Parkinsonism’ — a term describing Parkinson’s-like symptoms such as slowed movement, muscle rigidity, tremors, and balance problems. These issues can significantly impair mobility and increase the risk of falls.
“Individuals may develop a shuffling gait, stiffness, and tremors that make daily activities challenging, even for those previously adept at tasks like DIY or painting,” Dr. Lee adds.
Unlike other forms of dementia where memory loss is often prominent early on, Lewy Body dementia may present with gradual memory decline but pronounced difficulties with visual perception and alertness from the outset.
While there is currently no cure for Lewy Body dementia or any other dementia type, treatments can help alleviate symptoms. These include medications, cognitive stimulation therapies, and rehabilitation strategies aimed at improving quality of life.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms suggestive of Lewy Body dementia, consulting a GP is essential for assessment and guidance. Although symptoms vary widely, the NHS identifies fluctuations in alertness, visual hallucinations, and motor symptoms like tremors and stiffness as potential indicators.