Dementia Care in Berks County

An estimated 42% of U.S. adults over 55 will develop dementia.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia describes the loss of cognitive thinking abilities needed for activities of daily living. Over time, those with dementia may lose the ability to remember, speak, and solve problems. There are three main stages of dementia:

• Early-Stage or Mild Dementia: This stage can impact daily life due to memory and thinking problems, but is not yet severe.
• Middle-Stage or Moderate Dementia: Activities of daily living become harder, sometimes requiring reminders.
• Late-Stage or Severe Dementia: This may require full-time care.

What Are the Types of Dementia?

The types of dementia are based on what is causing the symptoms:

• Alzheimer’s Disease: Alzheimer’s makes up the majority of dementia cases. It results from minor brain abnormalities and worsens over time. The risk of developing Alzheimer’s is higher for adults over the age of 60.
• Vascular Dementia: This is also known as multi-infarct dementia. It’s caused by a series of strokes that injure more than one area of the brain. This is the second most common dementia in older adults.
• Lewy Body Dementia: Clumps of protein called “Lewy bodies” accumulate and cause neuron death, impacting thinking, memory, movement, sleep, and behavior.

When more than one of these causes happens at the same time, that is known as mixed dementia.

What Are the Symptoms of Dementia?

Dementia symptoms are progressive and can vary depending on where the brain damage is located. Those impacted may experience cognitive and behavioral symptoms like:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty reading and sharing thoughts through speaking and writing
• Agitation
• Disorientation
• Anxiety, depression, and irritability
• Hallucinations
• Paranoia

These can affect behavior, feelings, and relationships. Someone with dementia may struggle to keep track of their belongings or remember dates and times.

Can Dementia Symptoms Be Managed?

Mayo Clinic explains that dementia can’t always be cured, but there are ways to manage symptoms. Medications can provide temporary relief, and occupational therapy can help too. Changes to the living environment can help, such as reducing clutter and noise. As symptoms progress, there are many things Caregivers can do to assist:

• Maintain eye contact while talking
• Use gestures and hand cues
• If possible, help your loved one exercise regularly
• Create healthy bedtime habits

Where Can I Find Dementia Support?

Are you looking for resources around dementia for yourself or a loved one? Here are a few to check out:

• Dementia Clarity is a new project by our Director, Gary Hawkins, who has over 50 years of experience in home care, hospice, end-of-life care, intellectual and developmental disability services, and senior services. His videos offer guidance to help families navigate the challenges that come with dementia.
• The Alzheimer’s Association, Delaware Valley Chapter, serves Berks County! Keep an eye on their calendar of education programs and other events, like the 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Berks County in October. You can also become an advocate or volunteer to help with education, special events, or fundraising.

Griswold Dementia Care Support

Located in Wyomissing, we proudly provide dementia support services that can help you and your loved one navigate every stage of the disease. We also offer other non-medical home care services such as respite care and 24-hour home care. Whether you’re looking for dementia support or something like personal care, homemaking, or companionship, we’re here to support you. Give us a call when you click the button below!