According to the ABC News Medical Unit, diabetics may be at an increased risk of dementia. Diabetic dementia “is just one more reason for people to be aware of the potential ravages of diabetes”. This quote is stated by Dr. Richard Caselli, a neurologist of the Mayo Clinic, who is not surprised by the connection.
This is a tremendous find when you consider the financial implications. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) 25.8 million adults and children have diabetes in the United States alone. This creates a cost of $174 billion in health care. That is not including the 79 million who have pre-diabetes. Now, add the health care cost of the 5.4 million who have Alzheimer’s disease, which is $184 billion, and it’s easy to see the implications that this discovery makes.
Diabetes dementia has already been known to be caused by vascular problems. This is called vascular dementia and is usually caused by strokes. Yet, the evidence is increasing that diabetes may be linked to all forms of dementia. Recent studies are showing that Alzheimer’s disease, for example, is linked to the way the brain responds to insulin. Further studies suggest that the brain is really quite sensitive to fuels like sugar and hormones such as insulin.
Diabetic Dementia Symptoms
It is important to note the signs of diabetic dementia because your loved one may be too embarrassed to discuss it or even unaware that they have developed it, according to BD Diabetes’ website, BD.com. The following are signs that you, or a loved one, have developed diabetic dementia:
- Confusion
- Short-term memory loss
- Wandering around or becoming lost in familiar places
- Moving with rapid or shuffling steps
- Loss of bladder control
- Loss of bowel control
- Laughing or crying inappropriately
- Difficulty following instructions
- Problems with handling money
Many people consider forgetfulness, mood swings, and behavioral changes as a normal part of the aging process. This is not true. These are serious problems, and they may have significant effects on your loved ones’ health and well-being. If you have any suspicions that it is diabetes dementia or any other form of dementia that your loved one may have, find a way to get that person checked out as soon as possible. After all, you may be mistaken, but that is worth the risk if it means ensuring the optimal health and quality of life for someone that you love.
