Newswise — ATLANTA (JUNE 6, 2014)—Today, the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA), remembers dads with dementia and their caregivers with “Indelible Memories and Unforgettable Moments,” an open tribute to families across America struggling with Lewy body dementia (LBD), Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and nearly 100 other types of dementias. Following Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementia (LBD) is the most misdiagnosed form of dementia but the second most common cause of progressive dementia. While the symptoms of LBD may be similar to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, the treatment strategy is more challenging because fewer medications can be used safely. LBD, one of the most debilitating forms of dementia, affects 1.3 million Americans. In honor of Father’s Day, LBDA pays tribute to dads with dementia and their caregivers.
Indelible Memories and Unforgettable MomentsLive in the moment, a new kind of memory to make,A memory sealed that time cannot take.
Live in the moment, smile and cry,Indelible images that two hearts inscribe.
Live in the moment, comfort and guide,See endless joy in a moment’s time.
Live in the moment, unhinged from the past,Making each new today the memory that’s best.
Live in the moment, never to sorrow.Yesterday matters not, just today, not tomorrow.
Happy Father’s Day to Dads with Dementia and their Caregivers!
Written by M. Toni Buckley forLewy Body Dementia Association
LBD: One of the Most Debilitating Dementias
According to Howard I. Hurtig, M.D., Chair, Department of Neurology, Pennsylvania Hospital, and Elliott Professor of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, “Individuals with dementia have an ever increasing need for healthcare resources as the disease progresses. Caring for LBD is especially resource intense because of the challenge to the provider and caregiver of treating problems created by the combination of cognitive impairment and parkinsonism in most patients with LBD.”
A debilitating disease, Lewy body dementia impairs thinking, movement, sleep and behavior—causing people to see hallucinations or act out dreams. Also, it affects autonomic body functions, such as blood pressure control, temperature regulation, and digestion. Recognizing symptoms early can help a person with LBD get comprehensive and appropriate treatment and the caregiver get much needed support.
Support for Healthcare Providers and Families
Education about LBD is urgently needed. The Lewy Body Dementia Association offers healthcare providers, individuals with LBD and caregivers a range of information, resources and support. To receive a packet of information or to access other resources about LBD, visit http://www.lbda.org/lewywho/.
About Lewy Body Dementia Association
The Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness of Lewy body dementias (LBD), promoting scientific advances, and supporting people with LBD, their families and caregivers. LBD, a complex disease that can present with a range of physical, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms, is a “family disease.” It dramatically affects not only the person diagnosed but also the primary caregiver. A national health organization, LBDA supports all those affected by Lewy body dementias through outreach, education and research. To learn more about LBD and LBDA, please visit www.lbda.org.
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