What is Alcoholic Dementia?

Alcoholic dementia (also called alcohol-induced cognitive impairment) is a type of secondary dementia. Unlike primary dementia, alcohol-related dementia is cognitive decline and memory loss caused by another condition, in this case, heavy, long-term alcohol use. Discussing alcoholic dementia is very important in supporting those who have or are at risk of alcohol use disorder. 

Pride Detox is an LGBTQ-affirming drug and alcohol treatment center in Long Beach, California. We understand that alcohol use can lead to many chronic illnesses, organ damage, and brain changes like alcohol-related dementia. If you or a loved one appears to be struggling with alcohol abuse, please reach out to us for safe, supportive, and affirming addiction care. 

Overview of Alcoholic Dementia

We can get a clearer picture of alcoholic dementia by starting with how alcohol affects the brain and body. Drinking alcohol is correlated with reduced volume of the brain's white matter and disruption of brain chemicals. The white matter is made up of the axons (nerves), which transmit information between different areas of the brain. This reduction can shrink areas related to decision-making, problem-solving,  and memory. 

Heavy alcohol use not only causes alcoholic dementia but also a kind of encephalopathy called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. They are both under the umbrella term Alcohol-Related Brain Damage (ARBD). While they may look alike, alcoholic encephalopathy is a chronic memory disorder that is the result of severe thiamine (vitamin B-1) deficiency–– a side effect of alcohol misuse.

How Does Alcoholic Dementia Happen?

Frequently drinking a lot of alcohol causes alcoholic dementia. The level of drinking that causes alcoholic dementia is much different from the occasional bottle of beer, glass of wine, or cocktail. The American Medical Association recommends no more than two drinks a day and no more than 14 drinks a week for males, while females should have no more than one drink a day or seven a week. 

What counts as one standard drink?

• 12 ounces of beer (about 5% alcohol)
• 5 ounces of wine (about 12% alcohol)
• 1.5 ounces of liquor (about 40% alcohol)

What are the Stages of Alcoholic Dementia?

Dementia affects how well your brain works, often leading to difficulties with memory, thinking, and decision-making. When it's caused by alcohol use, doctors may describe it in four stages:

• Mild Cognitive Impairment: This is the earliest stage. You might notice small memory gaps or trouble with reasoning, but you are still able to drive, get around familiar places, and take care of yourself.
• Early Stage: Memory loss becomes more noticeable. You may forget recent conversations, names, or important dates. These changes can start to affect your daily life, and you might need more help from friends or family.
• Middle Stage: At this stage, cognitive symptoms become more severe. You may have difficulty speaking clearly, moving around, or recognizing familiar people and places.
• Late Stage: This is the most serious stage. You might lose the ability to talk, walk, or care for yourself. Around-the-clock support is usually needed.

Unlike Alzheimer’s, alcohol-related dementia does not always get worse on its own. If you stop drinking, the damage may stop progressing and, in some cases, might even improve. But if alcohol use continues, the brain damage can worsen, moving you into the later stages.

How is Alcoholic Dementia Treated?

The most crucial treatment for alcohol-related dementia is to stop drinking alcohol. Pride Detox will work with you to quit safely since suddenly stopping (often called going “cold turkey”) can be dangerous. In some cases, alcohol withdrawal can trigger a life-threatening condition called delirium tremens (DT), which is a medical emergency.

To stay safe, you need to spend time in a detox and residential rehab facility while your body adjusts to life without alcohol. During this time, you will likely receive the following care:

• Therapy (like CBT): Talking with a mental health professional can help you manage stress, anxiety, and any emotions tied to alcohol use. Therapy also helps you build healthier habits and coping tools.
• Medications: While there are no medications specifically for alcohol-related dementia, your provider might recommend ones used for other forms of dementia.
• Nutrition Support: If alcohol use has led to vitamin deficiencies or malnutrition, supplements or nutritional therapy can help your body recover.
• Peer Support Groups: Connecting with other LGBTQ folks who have been through similar experiences can be immensely encouraging. After inpatient care, Pride Detox will help you with aftercare planning so that your recovery from alcohol use disorder can be sustained.

Pride Detox Can Help. Reach Out

Whether it is you or your loved one showing signs of cognitive or behavioral changes from alcohol use, acting quickly is essential. Pride Detox will not only address the alcohol use disorder but also help prevent further brain damage. 

Alcoholic dementia can be overwhelming for both the affected person and their support system, and we provide a space for healing and recovery. Please reach out today at 1-866-465-6889 to get started on alcohol detox and residential rehabilitation.