Understanding Dementia

Dementia is not a single disease—it’s a group of conditions that cause problems with memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. It mostly affects older adults but is not a normal part of aging.

Key Signs and Symptoms of Dementia:

1. Memory Loss:
   • Forgetting names, events, or appointments
   •  Asking the same questions repeatedly
2. Confusion:
   • Getting lost in familiar places
   • Trouble recognizing people or places
3. Difficulty with Tasks:
   • Struggling with simple tasks like cooking, dressing, or managing money
4. Language Problems:
   • Trouble finding the right words
   • Difficulty following conversations
5. Mood & Behavior Changes:
   • Anxiety, depression, irritability
   • Acting out of character
6. Poor Judgment:
   • Making unsafe decisions
   • Falling for scams or forgetting to pay bills
7. Changes in Personality:
   • Becoming suspicious, fearful, or withdrawn

Common Types of Dementia:

1. Alzheimer’s Disease (Most Common) – Gradual memory loss and confusion
2. Vascular Dementia – Caused by poor blood flow to the brain (often after a stroke)
3. Lewy Body Dementia – Memory problems with movement issues and hallucinations
4. Frontotemporal Dementia – Affects behavior, language, and personality
5. Mixed Dementia – Combination of two or more types (e.g., Alzheimer’s + Vascular)

What Causes Dementia?

• Brain cell damage due to diseases like Alzheimer’s
• Strokes or poor blood flow to the brain
• Infections (like HIV, syphilis)
• Brain injuries
• Vitamin deficiencies (B12)
• Chronic alcohol use

When to See a Doctor:

• Memory loss affecting daily life
• Confusion or getting lost in familiar places
• Sudden behavior changes
• Severe mood swings
• Trouble speaking, walking, or seeing clearly

Some causes of memory loss are treatable, like vitamin deficiencies, infections, or depression. Early diagnosis can help.

How is Dementia Diagnosed?

• Medical history & physical exam
• Cognitive tests (memory, language, thinking skills)
• Brain scans (CT or MRI)
• Blood tests to rule out other problems

Is There a Cure?

• No cure for most types, but treatments can slow progression and improve quality of life.
• Medications for memory and behavior symptoms (like donepezil, memantine)
• Therapies: Cognitive stimulation, memory exercises

Caring for Someone with Dementia:

• Create a safe, structured environment
• Use reminders and routines
• Label items around the house
• Provide emotional support
• Encourage physical activity and a healthy diet

How to Reduce the Risk of Dementia:

• Exercise regularly
• Eat healthy (fruits, vegetables, less processed food)
• Control blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol
• Stay mentally active (reading, puzzles, learning new skills)
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

Quick Facts:

• Dementia is not a normal part of aging.
• Early signs include memory loss, confusion, and mood changes.
• Early diagnosis helps with better management.
• Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk.