What is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive functioning—thinking, remembering, and reasoningthat interferes with a person’s daily life and activities. It is not a single disease but a group of symptoms caused by various brain disorders, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease.
Key Features of Dementia:
Progressive (worsens over time)
Caused by damage to brain cells
Affects memory, language, problem-solving, and behavior
Common Symptoms of Dementia:
Cognitive Symptoms:
Memory loss (especially short-term)
Difficulty with problem-solving or planning
Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
Language problems (e.g., forgetting words)
Confusion with time or place
Poor judgment or decision-making
Communication Issues:
Repeating things
Difficulty finding the right words
Struggling to follow or join conversations
Behavioral & Psychological Changes:
Mood swings
Depression, anxiety, or apathy
Agitation or aggression
Hallucinations or delusions
Social withdrawal
Functional Decline:
Difficulty with basic tasks (dressing, bathing, eating)
Getting lost in familiar places
Needing help with managing medications or finances
Common Types of Dementia:
1. Alzheimer’s Disease (most common)
2. Vascular Dementia
3. Lewy Body Dementia
4. Frontotemporal Dementia
5. Mixed Dementia