Dementia is a decline in memory and cognitive ability that becomes severe such that it affects daily functionality. Dementia is a descriptor of mental function, rather than a particular disease.

Dementia occurs when parts of the brain linked to learning, decision making, language or memory are affected by disease or infection. Dementia damages the nerve cells of the brain, which interferes with the brain’s ability to communicate effectively.

There are a variety of causes of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. However, Alzheimer’s is the most common cause.

Dementia can occur when the brain is deprived of oxygen and blood flow. Without oxygen, brain tissue will die.

Dementia tends to typically develop mostly in people who are older.

Memory loss alone is insufficient to confirm a diagnosis of dementia. For example, dementia isn’t simply forgetting where your car keys are, but rather is more akin to forgetting what car keys are for.

There are four types of progressive dementia:

• Alzheimer’s dementia
• Frontotemporal disorders
• Lewy Body dementia
• Vascular dementia

Some types of dementia are brought on by certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, vitamin deficiencies, and hyperthyroidism. Typically treating these underlying issues improves dementia. While not all types of dementia can be successfully reversed, dementia brought on by these types of issues can be reversed.

However, most forms of dementia cannot be cured or reversed. Some treatments can aid in managing symptoms.

The first sign of dementia related illnesses is memory loss, followed by the cognitive symptoms that include:

• Confusion
• Difficulty communicating
• Difficulty planning
• Difficulty organizing
• Difficulty problem solving
• Coordination issues
• Mood changes (depression, anger, etc.)
• Changes in personality

Advanced cases of dementia can include symptoms such as hallucinations and inappropriate behavior. It is common for motor symptoms to develop as well, such as a shuffling walk, slowed movement, tremors, and rigid muscles.