What is dementia?
Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, and reasoning — to such an extent that it interferes with a person’s daily life and activities. There are several different forms of dementia, including Alzheimer disease. A person’s symptoms can vary depending on the type. Some people with dementia cannot control their emotions, and their personalities may change. Dementia ranges in severity from the mildest stage, when it is just beginning to affect a person’s functioning, to the most severe stage, when the person must depend completely on others for basic activities of living.
What causes dementia?
The causes of Alzheimer disease and related dementias can vary, depending on the types of brain changes that may be taking place. While research has found that some changes in the brain are linked to certain forms of dementia, in most cases, the underlying causes are unknown.
For patients and families experiencing the changes of a related dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, it can be challenging and sometimes frustrating to know how to find assistance or resources that can support you or someone that you know.
The Henry County Memory Fund can help caregivers by paying for items such as prescriptions, durable medical equipment, respite care, transportation, and providing housing assistance as needed. The committee members can also providing information about support groups or other resources that caregivers can utilize for additional support.
Applications for assistance are available if you or someone you know is battling with Alzheimer’s or dementia. For more information you may contact Ranae Walrath, 660-890-7294 or Christa Atchison, 660-525-1338.
Interested in donating to the fund? Donations can be made online at http://cfozarks.org/donate. At the bottom of the page, type Henry County Memory Fund into the box and select the name when it shows in the list. It will take you to a new page to donate. If you would like to donate by writing a check, please make it payable to Henry County Memory Fund and mailed to PO Box 741, Clinton, MO 64735.
