Detection, Diagnosis & Intervention of Dementia

Dementia significantly impacts patients' memory, cognitive abilities and self-care, while also affecting the quality of life of their caregivers. In 20 August 2024, Dr. Tam Yat Hung held an insightful talk on dementia at the Kwun Tong District Elderly Community Centre. The event drew dozens of senior attendees in person and nearly a hundred staff members from various organizations who tuned in online. The purpose of this talk was to deepen the community's understanding of dementia and to provide practical health advice for individuals and their caregivers.

Part 1: Causes, Detection & Diagnosis of Dementia

Dr. Tam began by explaining how to distinguish between normal age-related memory decline and the symptoms of dementia. He provided detailed insights into the different stages of dementia and clarified the distinctions between various types, such as Alzheimer's disease and vascular cognitive impairment.

Regarding detection, Dr. Tam highlighted the importance of screening tests like the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), which can help identify early signs of cognitive impairment. He emphasized that while memory may worsen with age, this does not necessarily indicate dementia, as other health issues can also affect cognitive function. Therefore, if there are concerns, it is crucial to consult a doctor for a comprehensive evaluation.

Part 2: Medication & Care Strategies

Dr. Tam then discussed how dementia can be managed through medication and care strategies. He introduced the latest treatment options and offered advice on addressing common psychological symptoms, wandering and sleep disturbances. The effectiveness of these strategies relies on appropriate treatments and care plan, which can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers.

Part 3: Preparing for Dementia – For Yourself & Your Family

Dr. Tam stressed the critical role that family and friends play in the early identification of cognitive decline. He shared five key tips to help prepare for the challenges of dementia:

1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle
2. Prevent cerebrovascular diseases
3. Enrich social interactions
4. Maintain a positive attitude
5. Undergo early screening and seek professional help

Part 4: Case Sharing & Q&A Session

In the final part of the talk, Dr. Tam shared real-life cases from his experience in treating dementia patients, as well as his involvement in the Jockey Club “Brain Health” Dementia Screening and Community Support Project. He also emphasized the importance of advance directives and financial planning in relation to dementia, highlighting the significance of making decisions early while patients are still capable, to protect their rights and well-being.

Both the in-person audience and online viewers were actively engaged in the Q&A session, creating a lively and informative discussion.

Looking Ahead

This event successfully raised awareness in the community about the importance of early detection, diagnosis and intervention for dementia. We look forward to collaborating with more organizations in the future to further promote dementia awareness and provide medical support, helping more individuals and families affected by dementia.