Dementia
Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. Dementia is a common condition. It is not a natural part of ageing.
Symptoms of dementia
Dementia is not only about, memory loss. It can also affect the way you speak, think, feel and behave.
Dementia symptoms may include problems with:
- memory loss
- thinking speed
- mental sharpness and quickness
- language, such as using words incorrectly, or trouble speaking
- understanding
- judgement
- mood
- movement
- doing daily activities
How dementia affects a person
People with dementia can lose interest in their usual activities, and may have problems managing their behaviour or emotions.
They may also find social situations difficult and lose interest in relationships and socialising.
Aspects of their personality may change, and they may lose empathy (understanding and compassion).
A person with dementia may see or hear things that other people do not (hallucinations and hearing voices).
Because people with dementia may lose the ability to remember events, or not fully understand their environment or situations, it can seem as if they're not telling the truth or are wilfully ignoring problems.
As dementia affects a person's mental abilities, they may find planning and organising hard. Staying independent may also become a problem.
A person with dementia will usually need help from friends or relatives, including help with making decisions.
The symptoms of dementia usually become worse over time.
In the late stage of dementia, people will not be able to take care of themselves and may not be able to communicate.
Types of dementia
There are many different causes of dementia, and many different types.
Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that makes up most cases.
Other common types of dementia are:
- vascular dementia
- dementia with Lewy bodies
- frontotemporal dementia
More information about these conditions is available at:
Why it’s important to get a diagnosis
It’s normal for your memory to be affected by stress, tiredness, certain illnesses and medicines.
But if you’re becoming more forgetful, particularly if you are over the age of 65, talk to a GP about the early signs of dementia.
A diagnosis helps people with dementia get the right treatment and support.
An early diagnosis means its progress can be slowed down in some cases, so the person may be able to keep their mental function for longer.
It can also help them, and the people close to them, to prepare for the future.
With treatment and support, many people are able to lead active, fulfilled lives with dementia.
Help and support
You can find further information on dementia and support services available at the link below:
Treating dementia
There's no cure for dementia.
A healthy lifestyle may help delay the onset of dementia.
It can also help to prevent cardiovascular diseases, such as strokes and heart attacks.
This includes:
- eating a healthy diet
- being a healthy weight
- exercising regularly
- don't drink too much alcohol
- stopping smoking (if you smoke)
- keeping your blood pressure at a healthy level
Treatment and support can help slow the progression of the condition and improve people's quality of life.
If you are diagnosed with a dementia, your doctor will discuss the most appropriate help and medical support for you.
Treatment and support can make a big difference to your day-to-day living, for example helping you to stay independent for longer and enjoy your regular activities with family and friends.
More useful links
The information on this page has been adapted from original content from the NHS website.
For further information see terms and conditions.