Lewy body dementia, also known as dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), is one of the most common types of dementia. Like other forms of dementia including Alzheimer’s disease, it can cause problems with understanding, thinking, memory and judgment.
Lewy body dementia is caused by clumps of protein forming inside brain cells. These deposits – called Lewy bodies – are also found in people with Parkinson’s disease and build up in the areas of the brain that control functions including thinking, visual perception and muscle movement. This form of dementia usually affects people with no family history of the condition.
People with Lewy body dementia may experience the following symptoms:
• Seeing, hearing or smelling things that are not there
• Problems with understanding, thinking, memory and judgement
• Sleepiness and confusion
• slow movement, stiff limbs and shaking
• Disturbed sleep, sometimes with violent movements and shouting out
• Fainting spells, unsteadiness and falls
• Depression and anxiety
The assessment process may involve:
• Reviewing symptoms
• Completing tests to assess mental ability
• Blood tests to rule out other possible causes
• Brain imaging, in some instances
While there isn’t a cure for Lewy body dementia, there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms, including:
• Medicines to help reduce hallucinations, confusion, drowsiness, movement problems and disturbed sleep
• Physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy for problems with movement, everyday tasks and communication
Lifestyle changes to support brain health can help, such as:
• Exercising regularly
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Engaging the mind through puzzles, reading or learning new skills
• Staying socially connected
• Managing health conditions