Degenerative Brain Diseases
Degenerative brain diseases are caused by the decline and death of nerve cells called neurons. These diseases are progressive, meaning that the condition worsens over time as greater numbers of neurons in the brain die. As the brain gradually deteriorates, the patient loses intellectual function in key areas like speech, memory and spatial skills.
The cause of these diseases is not completely understood, and currently, there is no cure.
Dementia is a collective term for several degenerative brain diseases, including:
It is estimated that one out of three older adults will be diagnosed with dementia.
Fleming Memory Center
Fleming Memory Center is an outpatient office at Lehigh Valley Hospital–17th Street that serves the needs of people with dementia and their caregivers.
Resources for caregivers include:
- Monthly caregiver support groups (call 610-969-3390 for schedule)
- Quarterly educational sessions
- Social worker drop-in hours
For more information or an appointment, please call 888-402-LVHN (5846).