Dementia is a neurological disorder characterized by a progressive decline in cognitive functioning that impairs the ability to perform everyday activities and can lead to severe disability (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2017). It affects people of all ages, but is more common in people over 65 years of age (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2018). The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, accounting for 50-70% of all cases (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2018). Other forms of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and mixed dementia (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2018).
The exact cause of dementia is not known, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2018; World Health Organization, 2020). Age is the single biggest risk factor for developing dementia, with the risk increasing with age (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2018; World Health Organization, 2020). Other risk factors include lifestyle factors such as smoking, physical inactivity, and poor diet (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2018; World Health Organization, 2020).
Dementia is diagnosed based on a medical history, physical examination, neurological tests, psychological tests, and laboratory tests (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2018; World Health Organization, 2020). There is no cure for dementia, but treatments can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2018; World Health Organization, 2020). Treatments include medications, lifestyle changes, and supportive care (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2018; World Health Organization, 2020).
Dementia is a serious health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Research is ongoing to better understand the causes and treatments of dementia, and to develop new treatments to improve the quality of life of those affected by the disease.
References
Alzheimer’s Disease International. (2017). World Alzheimer Report 2017. Retrieved from https://www.alz.co.uk/research/world-report-2017
Alzheimer’s Disease International. (2018). What is Dementia? Retrieved from https://www.alz.co.uk/about-dementia/what-is-dementia
World Health Organization. (2020). Dementia. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia