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1. What is dementia?

Dementia is the term used to describe the symptoms of a large group of illnesses which cause a progressive decline in a person’s functioning. It is a broad term used to describe a loss of memory, intellect, rationality, social skills and physical functioning. There are many types of dementia including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia and Lewy body disease. Dementia can happen to anybody, but it is more common after the age of 65.

Define dementia

The information in this section defines dementia, describes the symptoms and causes of dementia and explains the difference between normal memory problems and dementia.

• Dementia describes a collection of symptoms caused by disorders affecting the brain. It is not one specific disease.
• Dementia can affect thinking, memory and behavior. Brain function is affected enough to interfere with someone’s normal social or working life.
• No two people experience dementia in the same way.
• It is essential to get a medical diagnosis when symptoms first appear.
• People often lead active and fulfilling lives for many years after their diagnosis.

Signs and symptoms of dementia

Early signs of dementia can be subtle and may not be immediately obvious.

Common symptoms include:

• memory loss
• changes in planning and problem-solving abilities
• difficulty completing everyday tasks
• confusion about time or place