It's okay to feel fear, frustration, or uncertainty about memory loss. June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, a time to reduce stigma, promote early diagnosis, and share support options for those living with cognitive changes. At Door County Medical Center (DCMC), our Memory Care team walks with individuals and care partners through every step of their journey.

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer's

Dementia is not a specific disease but rather an umbrella term for a range of neurological conditions that affect memory, thinking, and behavior in ways that interfere with daily life. Though more common with age, dementia is not a routine part of aging. It results from damage to brain cells and their connections, which disrupts the brain's ability to function properly. In some cases, rare genetic factors are involved, but the cause remains unclear for most.

There are several types of dementia, including:

• Alzheimer's disease is marked by the buildup of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain. It is the most common form of dementia.

• Vascular dementia is linked to stroke or blood vessel damage.

• Lewy body dementia is associated with movement and mood symptoms.

• Frontotemporal dementia, often diagnosed in younger adults, affects behavior or language.

• Mixed dementia occurs when more than one type of dementia occurs together.

"Sometimes dementia is caused by Alzheimer's, but other times it could be due to mood changes, medication side effects, vitamin deficiencies, or even sleep issues," says Christy Wisniewski, CMC, Outreach Specialist for Rehab and Memory Care at DCMC. "That's why it's so important to get an early evaluation. We want to rule out reversible causes and connect people to the right care."

When should I be concerned?

While some forgetfulness is a natural part of aging, specific symptoms may signal something more serious:

1. Frequently forgetting conversations or appointments
2. Trouble with familiar tasks
3. Difficulty coming up with words or names
4. Behavioral or mood changes

"It's tricky because we normalize it—' Oh, I forget things too,'" says Wisniewski. "But if changes don't feel normal to you, trust your gut."

DCMC offers free memory consultations throughout Door and Kewaunee Counties, available at our clinics or in the comfort of your own home. These consultations explore potential causes of memory issues through screenings and comprehensive interviews. "The goal is to tease out what's normal aging and what's not," says Wisniewski. "And that knowledge gives people power and choice."

This information can be shared with the person's primary care provider or as part of a comprehensive diagnostic consultation. After evaluation with DCMC's Memory Clinic team, the participant receives additional testing and follow-up to identify the cause and treatment recommendations.

"If there is a care partner, we involve that person in the evaluation process as well, so we can make sure everyone is receiving knowledge, resources, and support," says Wisniewski.

Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline

One often underestimated factor in dementia risk is hearing loss. "People with untreated hearing loss in midlife are three to five times more likely to develop dementia than those with normal hearing," says Wisniewski. "The brain is working overtime to decode what it's hearing, which reduces the ability to focus on memory or comprehension."

In addition to cognitive overload, hearing loss can lead to shrinkage in brain regions tied to memory. It may cause people to withdraw from social interaction, another known risk factor for cognitive decline. "It all adds up. The more isolated or overworked the brain becomes, the more vulnerable it is," she adds.

Treatment, Therapies, and Collaboration

Following a diagnosis, DCMC takes a team-based, person-centered approach to dementia care. The Memory Clinic team stays closely involved with patients and their care partners, offering support and treatment designed to preserve independence and quality of life.

Memory Clinic patients receive follow-up care from a multidisciplinary team, including occupational therapists, speech therapists, and care managers (nurses and social workers trained specifically in dementia care).

"Everything we do is about preserving quality of life," says Wisniewski. "Our care managers become bridges between patients, families, and the entire care team. They know what questions to ask, what resources to connect people with, and how to keep the lines of communication open."

Occupational and Speech Therapists work one-on-one with patients to enhance cognitive function, support daily living skills, and promote safety at home. These services may include:

• Cognitive and functional assessments
• Driving evaluations and recommendations
• Home visits for safety and routine planning
• Personalized strategies for daily tasks

Further, the Memory Clinic collaborates with local partners, including the Aging and Disability Resource Center, Sunflower Cottage, Door County YMCA, and the Alzheimer's Association. Through these partnerships, families can access support groups, hands-on workshops, educational events, and brain health programs throughout the year.

"Families who move here from big cities are amazed by the level of support and collaboration in Door County. It really does take a village."

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, groundbreaking research is offering new hope. One area of promise is monoclonal antibody treatment, which targets and helps remove amyloid plaques—one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's—and can slow disease progression.

Other emerging therapies in development include anti-inflammatory medications, preventive injections, and repurposed drugs that may reduce Alzheimer's risk.

"It's an exciting time in research," says Wisniewski. "But these treatments are most effective when started early. That's why early detection is so important."

Reducing Stigma and Promoting Understanding

Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia are often misunderstood. "People hear 'dementia' and think only of memory loss," says Wisniewski. "But it can also mean difficulty with communication, problem-solving, organization, or even personality changes."

Another common misconception is that 'nothing can be done'. Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment of underlying causes, enables lifestyle changes, and facilitates planning for the future. "And that's a gift, not just to the person but to everyone who loves them," says Wisniewski.

She continues: "Dementia is a condition, not a character flaw. You are not unintelligent. You are not 'going crazy'. You have nothing to be embarrassed about. Dementia should be treated with the same understanding and support we offer to cancer or heart disease."

Reduce your risk of developing dementia by staying physically active, eating a brain-healthy diet, managing changes in hearing and other sensory functions, keeping up with regular medical visits, and remaining mentally and socially engaged. Research has shown protective benefits and slower progression when these lifestyle recommendations are followed, particularly by those who are diagnosed with Alzheimer's or other causes of dementia.

If you or someone you love is experiencing memory changes, Door County Medical Center is here to help. Call (920) 746-3504 to schedule a free memory consultation.

A Note on Caregiving

Caring for someone with dementia is emotionally and physically taxing.

"You will sometimes be overwhelmed, frustrated, sad, even resentful, as those best-laid future plans change. Best to acknowledge that early and not succumb to the guilt it causes," says Wisniewski.

For those who support a loved one with dementia, burnout is real and can be dangerous. "Caregivers have higher rates of illness and even earlier mortality," Wisniewski says. "That's why building your support team early and caring for your health is so important. Whether it's a friend lending an ear, a neighbor stepping in, or a support group meeting—those small things make a big difference."

She encourages caregivers to connect with local programs, take advantage of educational opportunities, and maintain both physical and mental well-being. "Above all," she adds, "maintain your sense of humor. It's one of the most powerful tools caregivers have."

Sources:

Alzheimer's.gov. (2024). Retrieved from https://www.alzheimers.gov/alzheimers-dementias/what-is-dementia.