What is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. It affects memory, thinking, reasoning, and social abilities. It is not a single disease but a group of symptoms caused by various brain disorders.
Common Types of Dementia
- Alzheimer’s disease – The most common type, accounting for 60-80% of cases. It leads to memory loss, confusion, and difficulty performing familiar tasks.
- Vascular dementia – Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to strokes or other vascular issues.
- Lewy body dementia – Characterized by abnormal protein deposits in the brain, causing cognitive decline, visual hallucinations, and movement issues.
- Frontotemporal dementia – Affects personality, behavior, and language due to damage in the brain’s frontal and temporal lobes.
Symptoms of Dementia
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating
- Trouble communicating
- Confusion about time and place
- Changes in mood and personality
- Difficulty with daily tasks
Causes and Risk Factors
Dementia is caused by damage to brain cells, affecting their ability to communicate. Risk factors include aging, genetics, poor cardiovascular health, and brain injuries.
Is There a Cure?
There is no cure for most types of dementia, but treatments and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Would you like information on dementia care or support options?