Page 61 - South Mississippi Living - November, 2016

Dementia is an umbrella term that encompasses many other types of cognitive dif culties, though Alzheimer’s
is the most common.
Dr. Lee Voulters, Neurologist, Memorial Hospital at Gulfport
story by Kelsey Sunderman photos courtesy of Lee Voulters, M.D. and Alvin Hebron, LMSW
M any people are familiar with Alzheimer’s disease as it hits close
to home, especially when it affects loved ones. Noticing the markers
of the disease and dealing with the eventual diagnosis can be difficult, but
there are wonderful programs in place on the Gulf Coast that are there for patients and families alike.
As a family member, some signs of the onset of Alzheimer’s may become apparent in a loved one. “Anger and anxiety can be some initial
markers for a psychiatric diagnosis,”
said Chonne Tyndall, director of
behavioral health services at Garden
Park hospital. “In many cases, this
may lead to frustration in patients,
stemming from not knowing
what’s going on, or realizing that
something isn’t quite right and not
understanding the cause.”
follow. “Many patients experience a cognitive decline in their reasoning and judgment,” said Alvin Hebron, LMSW (licensed master social worker) with Garden Park hospital. “This often times becomes problematic in the home setting as family members are faced with watching the decline of a loved one.”
Fortunately, there are many options available to families facing a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. “One way that we will address the disease is with behavior modification,” said Tyndall. “In many cases, it can be as simple as retraining
Once loved ones notice a change,
such as cognitive abilities in
language, abstract reasoning or short
term memory, it is recommended
that they seek support from their primary care physician. “Early detection and early treatment is key when dealing with Alzheimer’s or other forms of Dementia,” said Dr. Lee Voulters, a neurologist at Memorial Hospital at Gulfport. Voulters also serves as medical director of the hospital’s stroke program and medicine and rehabilitation unit.
“Dementia is an umbrella term that encompasses many other types of cognitive difficulties, though Alzheimer’s is the most common,” Voulters continued, “ One of the key factors in a diagnosis is gaining an understanding of the patient’s medical history from their family. That information paired with neurological exams such as MRI scans can lead us to a diagnosis of dementia.”
Following such a diagnosis, it is important that families take the necessary steps to address the challenges to
Alvin Hebron, LMSW
the activities of daily living or reminding patients of typical social setting behavior.”
Another important aspect of patient care is specialized treatment and medication. “Though there isn’t a cure for any form of dementia, there are a variety of medications that can be used to slow down the process,” said Hebron.
During the treatment process, many families seek support through a variety of local organizations. “Garden Park hospital offers
Lee Voulters, M.D.
an hour-long support session for caregivers on the first Tuesday of each month beginning at 12:30 p.m.,” said Hebron.“ Alzheimers.org also provides a referral list of support groups and educational material.”
“One of the biggest challenges facing the elderly is that their support networks continually get smaller,” Hebron continued. “It is so important to get out and meet new people and to socialize.”
Keeping an active social life and an active mind are some of the best ways to combat the effects of dementia. “Use your mind,” said Voulters. “People who do crossword puzzles and seek higher education often have a lower chance of developing the effects of dementia. Along with practicing good mental health, physical health is equally important in prevention.”
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