Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is a type of Dementia, which is characterized by an abnormal buildup of proteins. Lewy Bodies are microscopic and abnormal deposits that damage brain cells. This type of dementia leads to the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions (motor control). The same protein found in LBD is also associated with Parkinson’s disease. People who have Lewy Bodies in their brains also have the same plaques and tangles which are associated with Alzehimer’s disease.

Symptoms associated with Lewy Body Dementia include:

• Changes in thinking and reasoning
• Slowness in gait and imbalance
• Disorganized speech
• Visual hallucinations
• Visual spatial problems
• Apathy
• Delusions
• Confusion
• Tremors
• Rigid muscles
• Hunched posture
• Shuffling walking/gait
• Trouble sleeping
• Autonomic Nerve System malfunction
• Loss of bladder control
• Bowl issues
• Memory loss

There are 3 factors that increase the risk of LBD:

1. Age; People older than 60 are more likely to be at risk for LBD.
2. Sex; Lewy Body Dementia affects men more than women.
3. Family History; If Lewy Body Dementia or Parkinson’s disease runs in the family, you are at a greater risk.

There is no single test that can diagnose Lewy Body Dementia. Diagnosing LBD is based on the signs and symptoms you have and ruling out other conditions which may cause similar symptoms. These tests may include: neurological and physical exams, blood tests, brain scans, sleep evaluation, and the assessment of mental abilities.

Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy are able to improve a person with LBD’s quality of life. People with LBD lose their mobility, causing balance and gait issues. Physical therapists help their patients become more mobile, stronger in their core and legs. Physical therapy and Occupational Therapy works on balance to avoid falls. Examples of balance exercises are practiced through walking, marching, dancing and flexibility exercises. Specific motor function training can help enhance physical movements, stabilize posture, and improve body mechanics. Additional treatments, such as manual therapy or pelvic floor rehab, can help improve common problems that affect patients who suffer from LBD, such as arthritic pain, osteoporosis, and incontinence. 

Occupational therapy can help a person with LBD learn how to bathe safely, dress themselves and feed themselves. OT can also help with cognitive skills, stretching, simplifying words and hand and eye coordination. Occupational therapists observe the person with LBD in their home and recommend changes to make it easier and safer for them to be more independent. The OT’s goal is to keep creating a safety plan based on the person's needs and their caregivers. They may suggest adding safety equipment, such as bathroom grab bars, commodes and adaptive equipment. 

Social benefits are important as well as the physical benefits of therapy. Our therapists at Reddy Care develop relationships and build a strong connection over time with their patients. This will help relieve stress for the patient and create a comfortable and rewarding experience. Physical therapists understand that their patients who have dementia require care and specific treatments that are built around their interests and abilities.

Reddy Care’s therapists work closely with primary care physicians to create an effective treatment plan. If you or a loved one suffers from LBD or any similar disease, talk to a staff member today at Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy to find out how they can help.

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Source:

https://www.reddycare.net/services/dementia

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/lewy-body-dementia

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.