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10 million new cases annually T he World Health Organization describes demen- tia as a syndrome that causes a deterioration of cognitive function beyond what is typical of biological aging. Around the world, more than 55 mil- lion people live with dementia, and there are around 10 million new cases each year. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, but there are others, including Dementia with Lewy Bodies, vascular dementia and frontotemporal dementia, according to WebMD. People diagnosed with dementia may need to rely on a vast care network to help them through every stage of their condition. Here is a brief rundown of the various professionals individuals may interact with as they navigate life with dementia. First responders People with dementia may become confused and disoriented, and it's common for them to get lost not far from home. Others may forget a reason for going to a store or may be unable to find their way back to a vehicle. First responders, such as emergency person- nel, often step in to provide immediate assistance to someone who is lost or had an accident related to his or her dementia. Primary care physician A primary care physician likely will be the first per- son, apart from family, to recognize signs and symp- toms of dementia. Primary care physicians may even help develop an initial care plan. Speech-language pathologists Dementia can affect a person's ability to commu- nicate. Speech-language pathologists will work with their patients with language fluency, remembering words, cognitive communication, and feeding and swallowing therapies. In-home aides An individual with dementia may need assistance with activities of daily living. Professionals can help dementia patients with such tasks, which may include bathing, dressing and taking medications. Professional care providers Professionals who have undergone specialized training and certification in dementias will have the most current, evidenced-based care practices infor- mation, according to the Alzheimer's Association. They can work with individuals to provide the best care and quality of life. n Types of dementia care professionals LaurenK.Chin,RDHAP, isqualifiedbylicense, preparation, skillandattitude tohelppatients inthegreatestneed. LAUREN K.CHIN, RDHAP CaliforniaPacificMedicalCenter 2100WebsterStreet,Suite303|SanFrancisco Serving San Francisco, Marin,Alameda Counties 415.923.3867 | www.laurenkchin.com License#634, License#28310 •Consultation•Oralcancerexam•Digitalx-rays•Dentalhygienecleanings •Oralhealtheducation•Managedecaywithtopical medicament Dental Hygiene House Calls Gentle|Affordable Convenient C lt ti O House callsare agreat optionfor those needingcare broughttotheminthe safety of theirownsurroundings. Servingthose in residences ofthe homebound, nursinghomes, andschools.Dentists are keptinformedabout theirpatients'healthwhenroutinevisitsaren't possible,andintroductions are made topatientsrequiringrestorative work along theirjourney. PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY (FD12CR91) Proudlyofferingkind,professional cremationandburialarrangements toallweareprivilegedtoserve. Asanindependentlyownedfuneral home,weareabletoprovideyouwith personalattentionandcare. 850 Keokuk Street, Petaluma, California 94952 Ph: (707) 763-4131 Fax: (707) 763-4765 www.ParentSorensen.com JAMES M. SMITH (FDR1708) 16 June 5, 2022 Senior Living A Marketing Supplement of the Marin Independent Journal | marinij.com