Dementia

Dementia is a progressive neurological condition characterized by a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life and independence. It affects memory, thinking, reasoning, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Dementia is not a single disease but a broad term encompassing various disorders, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common cause. It primarily affects older adults, though it is not a normal part of aging.

Symptoms

Symptoms of dementia develop gradually and worsen over time:

• Memory loss, especially recent events

• Difficulty with planning, problem-solving, or decision-making

• Confusion about time, place, or familiar people

• Language problems, such as difficulty finding words

• Impaired judgment and reasoning

• Changes in mood, personality, or behavior

• Difficulty performing familiar tasks

• Withdrawal from social activities

Causes

Dementia results from damage to brain cells that interferes with their ability to communicate:

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Vascular dementia due to reduced blood flow to the brain

• Lewy body dementia

• Frontotemporal dementia

• Traumatic brain injury

• Infections or inflammatory brain conditions

• Metabolic or nutritional deficiencies

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing dementia:

• Advanced age

• Family history of dementia

• Cardiovascular disease, including hypertension and diabetes

• Smoking and excessive alcohol use

• Low levels of physical or mental activity

• History of stroke or head injury

• Poor diet and obesity

Complications

Dementia can lead to significant physical, emotional, and social challenges:

• Loss of independence

• Increased risk of falls and injuries

• Difficulty communicating needs

• Behavioral disturbances such as agitation or aggression

• Malnutrition and dehydration

• Increased caregiver stress

• Higher risk of infections

Prevention

While dementia cannot always be prevented, certain strategies may reduce risk or delay onset:

• Engaging in regular physical activity

• Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet

• Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar

• Staying mentally and socially active

• Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake

• Protecting against head injuries

• Seeking early medical evaluation for cognitive changes