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Dementia or Depression? Beware An Easy Misdiagnosis

Diseases often get misdiagnosed due to similar symptoms. This is especially true for dementia and depression, because the symptoms mimic one another. Pseudodementia is a term used to describe symptoms that resemble dementia, but are due to other conditions, mainly depression. Misdiagnosis of these symptoms, such as memory loss, can lead to someone getting the wrong treatment, or no treatment at all. It is important to know the difference, because the symptoms of depression can be reversed.

The Similarities

Because a lot of people with dementia are also depressed, it can be hard to distinguish between the two. The common symptoms are:

- Forgetfulness

- Sleeping too much or not enough

- Loss of interest of a hobby

- Memory problems

- Social withdrawal

Difficulty concentrating

The Differences

Despite their similarities, dementia and depression exhibit important distinctions. Some ways to differentiate the two are:

Memory: One of the main differences in dementia is that memory will continue to get worse. People with depression may have trouble concentrating and be forgetful. Someone with dementia, however, will have problems storing new information, such as what they did a couple of hours ago. They may repeatedly ask the same questions, and forget where they placed things.

Language: People who are dealing with depression may talk slowly, but will speak properly. People with dementia will forget common names of things such as “chair,” or “picture.”

Negativity: Depressed people will appear more negative than people with dementia. Depressed people will talk about suicide more, and put a negative spin on things. People with depression also show less severe mood swings than those with dementia, who may show a wider range of emotions, such as laughing while others are sad, and mood swings that are all over the place.

Orientation: People who are depressed know who they are speaking with, and are aware of the day and time. On the other hand, people with dementia will be confused during conversation, and forget what day and time it is.

Screenings

There are two screenings that can be used to determine depression and/or dementia in seniors. The Geriatric Depression Scale (GSD) is used to evaluate depression. Another option is the Cornell Scale, which can be used to identify depression and dementia.

Treatment

There are multiple treatments available for depression. Typically these can include antidepressants, exercise, and counseling. Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia. Medications (cholinesterase inhibitors) can help slow down the progression, however.

Depression is common among older adults because of the loneliness or isolation they can feel. More than 8 million senior Americans are depressed. Even more alarmingly, depression can actually bring on dementia. As depression worsens, small strokes break down the brain, eventually developing into dementia. If you experience any type of memory loss, it is in your best interest to see a doctor as soon as possible. Memory and concentration can be restored if the issue is depression. Seeking help and treating depression will not only help you remember and feel better, but it will also decrease your chances of developing dementia.

Increase Your Lifespan By Spending Time With Those You Love

It has always been said that being around kids keeps you young, and this theory applies to seniors as well. Seniors who babysit, or are around their grandchildren often live up to 5 years longer than seniors who do not. Research analyzed over a 20 year period concluded that out of 500 seniors 70 years old and older, those who provided some form of care to their grandkids had a lower death ratio than those who did not. The study was published in Evolution and Human Behavior, and showed that the senior babysitters had a 37% lower mortality risk. There are multiple

*Being around your grandkids help keep you more active.*

health benefits to watching your grandkids apart from staying alive longer.

Improves Brain Function

Being around kids keeps your brain function high, because you are either helping them with their homework, or learning new things from them. Your brain is constantly working when you are with children, which helps your cognitive function better and for longer. Studies also show that your memory improves as well.

Keeps You Active

When you are not learning new things from your grandkids, chances are you are running around with them and playing catch or doing an outdoor activity with them. You are more likely to get up and be more active when your grandkids are around than when they are not.

Lowers Risk of Depression

Can you think of anything better than the love you receive and feel from family, especially your grandkids? Being around your grandchildren will increase your happiness and mental health. Seniors are less likely to be depressed when they are around their grandkids consistently.

Geriatric medicine specialist Dr. Ronan Factora thinks that the reasoning for a longer life is due to the reduction of stress when with your grandkids. Dr. Ronan Factora said, “there is a link between providing this care and reducing stress and we know the relationship between stress and higher risk of dying. If providing care to grandchildren and

*The benefits of being around your grandchildren include helping you feel younger, decrease stress, increase your lifespan, and make you happier overall.*

others in need is one way that can actually reduce stress, then these activities should be of benefit to folks who are grandparents and provide this care to their grandkids.”

As of course with everything, moderation is key. Do not overexert yourself with babysitting every single day. That will only create stress and tire you out, because let’s be honest, kids are a handful! Take some time 2-3 times a week to plan some hangout time with your grandkids, you will all benefit from it. Your relationship with your grandkids is important to both you and your grandkids. A strong bond with them reduces depression, and makes your time together more enjoyable and fun. Your adult grandkids also receive some mental health benefits from a strong relationship with you. Call your children and begin setting up some playdates with your grandkids, it will increase your life’s expectancy and value.

Loved One With Alzheimer’s: How To Cope

Hearing that someone you love is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can be devastating. It is not only tough for the person going through it, it is also tough for the entire family. Over 16 million people in the U.S. care for someone that has Alzheimer’s. Watching someone you love slowly forget who you are and the details of their life is challenging and overwhelming. It will bring on feelings of frustration, and depression. Learning about the disease, and strategies to cope with it can make the process a little easier. It can also help you prepare for the future of what is to come before the disease worsens.

Educating yourself about Alzheimer's can help you understand the disease, and prepare you for what's to come. — *Educating yourself about Alzheimer’s can help you understand the disease, and prepare you for what’s to come.*

Educate Yourself About The Disease

Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S. with 1 in 3 seniors dying with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Learning as much as you can about the disease and how it progresses can help you understand how to deal with it and cope. Understanding what the disease entails will help you empathize with your loved one and provide you with the knowledge to help slow it down, and treatment options.

Create Realistic Expectations

People with Alzheimer’s do not get better unfortunately, symptoms progress and worsen. Information you provide your loved one with Alzheimer’s will be forgotten, so it is important not to set unrealistic expectations for them. You should learn to expect the unexpected, and take it one day at a time.

Respond Gentler

When a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, it can be really frustrating to constantly remind them of something. It hurts that they are losing memories and recognition of who you are, but it is important to be more gentle with them. Using validation instead of frustration and anger. It will only frustrate them, which will make it even harder for them to remember anything.

Remind Your Loved One

There will be many times, especially after the disease progresses, that your loved one will forget your name and things. Simply remind them who you are, and show them pictures and videos of family and friends. This can help trigger their memory, and if not, then it will be nice for them to hear the stories of the people who love them.

Develop Routines/Schedule

Create a daily routine and schedule for your loved one do they can have some sort of structure in their life. It is important to have set schedules for them to help get rid of as much confusion and frustration as possible. Allow your loved one to do as many things as possible by themselves if they can. It helps them restore some confidence.

Accept Changes

There is not point in trying to change your loved one to the person they were before the disease. Learn to grieve the loss, and accept who they are now and that the only thing you can change is your attitude towards it. Your relationship with your loved one will constantly change over time.

Good Nutrition Can Help

Research has linked Alzheimer’s to nutrition. Limit refined sugars and increase vegetable intake to help manage the disease. Leafy green vegetables has been linked to improved cognitive performance.

Prepare Wills & Finances

Make sure the loved one’s living will and finances are all prepared and completed. This will help alleviate any stress or issues that may come along as the disease worsens, leading to medical bills such as hospice.

Take Care Of Yourself

Do not burn yourself out, and remember to take care of yourself. Being a caretaker for a loved one with Alzheimer’s gets to be very time consuming. You focus all your time and energy on them and forget to take time for yourself. Take some time for yourself throughout the day. You can join a support group and talk with others who are going through

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's can be a lot to take on. Lean on family for help so you can take a break. — *Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be a lot to take on. Lean on family for help so you can take a break.*

the same feelings as you of loss, sadness, and even resentment.

Involve The Family More

Taking care of your loved one alone is really stressful. You can rely on your family for help when needed, and ask your family for more support. If you feel like you need to take a break, lean on your family members, and ask them to help you when you need it. It is a lot of work emotionally and mentally helping someone that has Alzheimer’s. Create a care plan with your family so they can help pick up the slack in some areas such as cleaning.

Taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or even going through the whole process is draining and releases a flush of emotions. The first and foremost thing is to remember that there is nothing you can do or change, but your attitude towards the situation. Remain as calm as possible around your loved one and remind them of the good times. They may not remember memories over time, but one thing they can still remember is emotions and can sense yours. Be more patient and grieve the loss of who they were, but you can create new memories with them and have fun together. Take advantage of the time you have together, and ask for help and a break when needed.

Activities To Do While Cooped Up Inside

With the weather getting worse during the winter months, you end up getting stuck inside your home a lot. Being cooped up indoors for a long time can drive anyone crazy, and for some cause seasonal affective disorder. Seasonal affective disorder is when you get depressed during the change of seasons, typically begins fall and carried on through the winter season. Because it is safer indoors than being out in the frigid cold, it is important to try and find ways to manage the distress. It can be a fun time, as long as you make it that way. There are entertaining things you can do while homebound in order to avoid depression, isolation, and boredom.

Board games

Games and puzzles are a great way to kill time, while having fun. You can play by yourself, or play with loved ones.

Games like scrabble and Sudoku are fun and work your brain at the same time. You can also play card games such as solitaire, or online games if you can manage.

Volunteer

If you are bored, then you can consider doing some charity work. You can call the local hospital or church and see if you can help out with anything, such as knitting or crocheting blankets from the comfort of your home.

Connect With Friends & Family

Take the time of being stranded indoors to catch up with family or friends. You can take the time to write a letter, or make some calls to connect with loved ones.

Learn Something New

Take an online class or tutorial! There are many options to choose from, whether learning a new language, DIY crafts, drawing, painting, modeling clay, play an instrument, or cooking classes. Use the time to learn a new hobby from the comfort of your own home.

Plan A Vacation

What a better time to think about your next vacation than when you are snowed in? Start planning a vacation you would like to go on with loved ones or alone for the spring and/or summer. You can also take the time to plan your next get-together with friends.

Exercise

Get up and move! There are many safe exercises you can do from the comfort of your

*Take the time to catch up on a good book.*

own home that will boost your mood. You can even use a chair to do some exercises, including yoga.

Spend Time Reading

Reading has a lot of benefits for the brain. You enhance your cognitive skills when you read a book everyday. It improves memory, reduces stress, and you can expand your vocabulary by learning new words.

Watch A Movie/Show

Make a day of popcorn and your favorite movies on the couch. Remember that too much TV is not good for your health, so keep the movie/show days to a minimum.

Take Advantage of Medicare Covered Cervical Screenings

The American Cancer Society estimates 13,000 women to be diagnosed with cervical cancer this year. About 50% of these women are 50 or over, and 15% of them are aged 65 and older. Cervical cancer can easily be identified through a routine Pap smear. Luckily for women 65 and older. Medicare covers Pap tests and pelvic exams to ensure health, and review risks. Taking advantage of these services Medicare offer can help evaluate any issues, and treat them early on. More importantly, these services can help prevent cervical cancer.

*After the doctor collects specimen from cervix, it is sent to a lab to look for pre-cancerous cells.*

Pap Smears

Pap smear tests screen for signs of cervical cancer. The doctor uses a small device shaped like a spatula to scrape a few cells from your cervix. The specimen collected is then sent to a lab to check for any pre-cancer cells or abnormalities. If the doctor is able to identify any pre-cancerous cells early on, then you can be treated before the cancer fully develops.

What’s Covered By Medicare

Medicare Part B covers Pap smears and pelvic exams to screen for vaginal and cervical cancers once every 2 years. The screening also includes a clinical breast exam to screen for breast cancer. If you are at high risk for cervical or vaginal cancer, then Medicare will cover the screening tests every year.

A woman is considered high risk for cervical or vaginal cancer if she:

Was sexually active before the age of 16.
Has had 5 or more sexual partners.
Ever had a sexually transmitted disease.
Has received less than 3 negative pap smears within the last 7 years.

As long as you meet the eligibility requirements and get the annual screens done, then these services are free. The Pap smear test, lab work, pelvic exam, and breast exam are all free. The only way you will have to pay for these services is if you go to a doctor that does not accept Medicare assignment.

Women 65 and older should think about their health and get pap smears. — *Women 65 and older should think about their cervical health and get pap smears for prevention of cancer. Medicare covers it so use it.*

Healthcare has become costly over the years, so what could be better than free healthcare? These services are covered 100% by Medicare, which is one of the reasons to go get checked. The other more important reason to get checked is that the only way to prevent cervical or vaginal cancer, is to get screened. This way you can catch it early on before it develops into later stages. Something as simple as a pelvic exam and pap smear test can save a woman’s life. For women who are 65 and older, it is especially important to utilize these services so they can live a longer healthier life.

Plan F & Other Popular Medicare Supplement Plans Disappearing in 2020

Medicare has major coverage gaps, most notably that Part B pays only 80 percent of covered expenses, and the other 20 percent must be paid by the consumer. When you purchase a Medicare Supplement plan from a private insurer, you close that gap. These supplement plans have been growing in popularity over the years, mainly plans C and F. Congress has ruled to eliminate these two plans in the year 2020.

*As of January 1, 2020, some popular Medicare Supplement Plans will no longer be available.*

The legislation called the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015 (MACRA), ruled that as of January 1, 2020, all newly eligible Medicare recipients cannot sign up for a supplemental plan that covers the Medicare Part B deductible. This means that Medicare Supplement Plans (also called Medigap Plans) C and F will be eliminated. However, those who are enrolled in Plan C or F as of December 31, 2019 will be “grandfathered” and continue with the plan as long as they want.

Why the changes?

Medicare is experiencing a growing financial strain from the ongoing enrollment of the Baby Boomer generation. This created a non stop increase of costs of health insurance. In an attempt to control costs by reducing claims, Congress decided it made sense to have Medicare recipients be responsible for more of their out-of-pocket medical expenses.

Medicare covers 80% of your outpatient benefits and Plan F covers both your Part A and B deductibles as well as the other 20%. Medicare Supplement Plan F is considered the Cadillac of all the supplement plans because it provides first dollar coverage, covering all the gaps in Medicare, leaving you with $0 out of pocket. People with Plan F have no copays for services that are Medicare-covered including copays at the doctor. Medicare Supplement Plan C is similar but does not include Medicare excess charge coverage

Lawmakers want to reduce medical misuse because they believe having this type of coverage leads to overuse of healthcare services. They fear that the people who have these plans will utilize it for every little thing like a cough, and run to the doctor because once the deductible is paid off, there are no co-pays, deductibles, or network of doctors to follow you. However, if you paid for your own deductible then you would reconsider doctor visits for minor things.

How will this affect policyholders?

*Now would be the best time to start planning and consider your options. Discuss the differences of plans with an agent and choose which best suits your needs.*

People who are grandfathered can continue to hold onto Plan F indefinitely. When the new change occurs in 2020, we will expect Medicare Supplement Plan F premiums to rise annually due to less people being enrolled.You can switch insurers, so if someone offers a better price, then you can apply to change to that insurance company’s policy.

If you are not grandfathered in and you cannot purchase plans F or C after January 1, 2020, you will want to consider plan G. Medicare Supplement Plan G is commonly known as the plan with the best value plan. Plan G has the same exact benefits as Plan F, but Plan G requires you to pay the annual Medicare Part B Deductible.

There are some concerns with the elimination of these plans. This could lead to consumers to not seeking treatment, which could lead to missing an early diagnosis and advanced health conditions. Essentially this will be more difficult and costly to treat, which defeats the money saving purpose Medicare began covering more preventative benefits.

With these changes ahead, you should plan for the financial impact it will have on you. If you need to compare, or would like to switch Medicare Supplement plans, contact EZ.Insure. A trained agent is always ready to help guide you. We can be contacted through email at Replies@ez.insure or by phone, 888-753-7207. Our agents will walk you through your options and help you find a plan with the right coverage within your budget. No hassle & no obligation, do it the easy way.