Dementia is a progressive decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with a person’s ability to perform daily activities. It encompasses memory loss, impaired judgment, reduced language skills, and often personality changes.
Key Points:
- Types & Causes: Alzheimer’s disease (most common), vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, and more.
- Symptoms: Memory impairment (short-term memory often affected first), difficulty with problem-solving, disorientation, mood swings, and, in later stages, significant functional decline.
- Risk Factors: Advanced age, genetics, cardiovascular health, head injuries, and lifestyle factors.
- Management: No cure for most types, but treatments include medication (e.g., cholinesterase inhibitors), cognitive and occupational therapies, and supportive care.
