21/03/2025
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia.
Not a single disease:
Dementia is not a specific disease, but rather a syndrome or a group of symptoms caused by various underlying brain diseases.
Progressive decline:
These conditions cause a gradual decline in cognitive function, meaning the symptoms worsen over time.
Impact on daily life:
The decline in cognitive abilities can make it difficult for individuals to perform everyday tasks and activities.
Common symptoms:
Common symptoms include memory loss, difficulty with language, problems with problem-solving and decision-making, changes in behavior and personality, and difficulties with motor skills.
Types of Dementia:
Alzheimer's disease: The most common type of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases.
Vascular dementia: Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to stroke or plaque buildup in arteries.
Lewy body dementia: Characterized by protein deposits in nerve cells that disrupt communication between brain cells.
Frontotemporal dementia: Affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to changes in personality, behavior, and language.
Parkinson's disease dementia: Dementia that can develop in people with advanced Parkinson's disease.
Important Considerations:
Not a normal part of aging:
While dementia is more common in older adults, it is not a normal part of aging, and not everyone develops it as they age.
Early detection is crucial:
Early diagnosis and intervention can help individuals with dementia and their families manage the condition and improve quality of life.
Treatment options:
While there is no cure for most types of dementia, there are treatments that can help manage symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease.
Dementia
