What is Dementia?
Dementia describes a collection of symptoms that are caused by disorders affecting the brain. It is not one specific disease.
Dementia affects thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Brain function is affected enough to interfere with the person’s normal social or working life.
The hallmark of dementia is the inability to carry out everyday activities as a consequence of diminished cognitive ability.
Who gets dementia?
Dementia can happen to anybody, but the risk increases with age.
Most people with dementia are older, but it is important to remember that most older people do not get dementia.
It is not a normal part of ageing, but is caused by brain disease.
Less commonly, people under the age of 65 years develop dementia and this is called ‘younger onset dementia’.
Certain health and lifestyle factors also appear to play a role in a person’s risk of dementia.
People with untreated vascular risk factors including high blood pressure have an increased risk, as do those who are less physically and mentally active.
Detailed information about dementia risk factors is available at your brainmatters.org.au.
What are the early signs of dementia?
The early signs of dementia can be very subtle, vague and may not be immediately obvious. Some common symptoms may include:
Progressive and frequent memory loss
Confusion Personality change
Apathy and withdrawal
Loss of ability to perform everyday tasks
What can be done to help?
At present there is no cure for most forms of dementia. However, some medications have been found to reduce some symptoms. Support is vital for people with dementia and the help of families, friends and carers can make a positive difference to managing the condition.