Brought to you by Ashtonleigh Residential Care Home:
Did you know that women are almost twice as likely to develop dementia as men? This surprising fact was revealed in a report published by the Alzheimer’s Society, stating that 65% of dementia patients in the UK are women.
Another report concluded that dementia is the biggest cause of death among women in the UK. Studies show that this is due to the lower levels of estrogen in women after they reach menopause, as compared to men. High estrogen levels have long been linked with lower risk of dementia.
In fact, a higher number of women move into care homes in their old age, as compared to men, seeking assistance with their health-related issues, says an expert at Ashtonleigh Residential Care Home in Crawley, a leading facility offering services in Horsham and nearby areas of West Sussex as well.
The first way women are impacted by this brain degenerative disorder is that they’re more vulnerable to it. The second impact that the disorder has on women is that research shows women take on the role of caregiver more often than do men. Even if women aren’t diagnosed with the ailment, it directly affects them.
Women as Caregivers for Dementia Patients
Women are much more likely to end up being the caregiver for a dementia patient in the family. They often have to compromise or even completely give up on their professional lives in order to do so. This can cause a lot of emotional distress for the caregiver.
In fact, studies show that the number of women providing 24-hour care to dementia patients is 2.5 times higher than the number of men doing the same. This fact was highlighted in a survey done by Alzheimer’s Search UK. It was also reported in the same survey that 62% of the women acting as caregivers for Dementia patients on an unpaid basis found the task emotionally distressing.
In fact, there are certain cases where the women who are the primary caregivers for family members with dementia later themselves develop the condition. So, how can we help lower the stress and still provide the best possible care for people with dementia?
The Role of Care Homes
Care homes can play a very important role in reducing the unique impact of dementia on women. Residential care homes provide the ideal environment for a happy and fulfilling life for the elderly, including those diagnosed with Dementia. These residential facilities have highly trained staff, who cater to all the needs of the patients. Patients are provided 24-hour support and attention to ensure their safety and well-being.
Therefore, women who are suffering from dementia can greatly benefit from a move into a care home. Similarly, women who find it physically and emotionally exhausting to look after dementia patients can be relieved of the stress if the family opts for a care home for the family member with dementia.
The fact that women around the world are much more affected by dementia has long been overlooked. It is high time that we create awareness of this important issue so solutions can be found quickly.
