Is Dementia Hereditary?
Dementia is a broad term that describes a decline in cognitive function, often resulting from damage or an underlying medical condition. This deterioration can disrupt daily life by leading to memory loss, difficulty speaking or expressing oneself, and impaired problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Dementia is most commonly seen among older adults, when certain conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease, are statistically more prevalent. It can bring about sudden changes in moods and behaviors. These changes can be sudden and unpredictable, making dementia incredibly difficult to manage on a daily basis, which is why many families seek out a nursing agency or other caregiving services.
In most cases, dementia is not hereditary, but the diseases that cause dementia have shown to be caused by both genetic and lifestyle factors. In this post we will examine the link between genetics and dementia and what steps can be taken to reduce dementia risks.
The Relationship Between Genetics and Dementia
Possessing certain gene variants can increase your risk of developing dementia, though it is only one of multiple risk factors associated with the condition. Gene variants are functional genes that exist in different forms and determine physical traits, such as eye colour and hair colour. Some of these variants can increase your risk of developing dementia, meaning genetics do play a role, but they are not the whole story. Alzheimer's disease, for example, accounts for 60-80% of all cases of dementia and results from a combination of age, environmental factors, and genetics.
Familial dementia, however, is an inherited form of the condition caused by a genetic mutation in certain genes. Depending on the genetic inheritance pattern, either dominant or recessive, a mutation in one both parents may be enough to cause the disease. This particular subset of dementia affects individuals much earlier in life, which is why it is referred to as early-onset dementia. In most cases, it develops between the ages of 30 and 65.
Genetic testing is a valuable tool for assessing your risk of developing dementia. It is especially important to undergo genetic testing when your family member is diagnosed. Knowing where you stand can help you take preventative measures if you are at risk of developing the condition.
The Different Forms of Dementia and the Impact of Genetics
Dementia comes in different forms, each with their own primary causes. In this section we will be examining the influence genetics have on these forms of dementia.
Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, with age being its highest risk factor. In fact, individuals over 65 have a higher risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer's disease, with the risk doubling every five years. Although close family members having dementia may put a person at a higher risk, by and large, Alzheimer's is not hereditary.
While the majority of Alzheimer's disease cases are non-hereditary, there is a small minority (less than 5%) where the condition is inherited. In such cases of early-onset Alzheimer's disease, it usually develops between 30 and 60 years old. Three mutated risk genes have been identified as responsible for this form of hereditary dementia, but a person need only possess a single copy to be at risk. This underscores the importance of regular checkups throughout adulthood in order to identify any pre-symptomatic signs of familial Alzheimer's disease.
Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is not a condition that is directly genetically inherited, yet research has shown that roughly 40% of individuals who are affected by FTD tend to have a close relative who was previously diagnosed with some form of dementia.
It is important to recognize this heightened risk amongst families, as it allows for early diagnosis and management of the condition which can improve the chances of reducing disruptive effects on the patient’s life.
Vascular dementia
Vascular dementia is primarily caused by damage to the blood vessels in the brain, often as a result of a stroke. While only a few rare types are hereditary, this form of dementia is genetically linked. There are numerous risk factors associated with vascular dementia that are also strongly linked to family history, such as high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and diabetes.
Evidence suggests that genes that create an increased risk of developing these conditions might also increase the risk of developing vascular dementia. Although this form of dementia is not inherited directly, genetic factors may have an indirect influence on its onset.
How to Decrease Dementia Risk
While our genes play a role in determining the risk of dementia, there is much more to it than that. Other important factors include age and lifestyle choices. Medical research has determined that changing certain aspects of our lifestyles can drastically reduce our chances of developing this disease. Useful preventative measures include:
Consuming less than 12 units of alcohol per week
Controlling high blood pressure
Not smoking
Exercising regularly
Maintaining a healthy diet and weight
Keeping cholesterol at a healthy level
Seeing your doctor on a regular basis
Staff Relief is Here to Help
Dementia can be incredibly distressing for both those it affects directly, and their loved ones. Care taking is typically a time-consuming and emotionally draining experience as memories slowly fade and behaviours become unpredictable.
For the family caretaker, it is important to find balance and support. It's understandable that taking on this role can come with significant mental health impacts; such as increased stress levels, feelings of guilt or being overwhelmed.
To help cope with caring for someone in need of dementia support, it’s essential to reach out to community organizations and plan ahead for extra assistance if needed – enabling sustainable access to necessary dementia care when needed to regain a sense of normality and better manage stress.
Staff Relief offers a wide range of healthcare services to help those with family members who are suffering from dementia to navigate this difficult time. Contact Staff Relief today for support.