5 Warning Signs of Dementia

Dementia, like many illnesses that profoundly impact cognitive functions, is a devastating condition. This article will explore the nature of dementia, its warning signs, and treatment options.

What is dementia?

According to the Alzheimer's Organization, dementia is "a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life." Memory loss and Alzheimer's, the most prevalent type of dementia, are common examples. Generally, dementia involves a slow deterioration of memory, thinking, and reasoning skills.

Dementia is not a specific disease but rather a set of symptoms that may suggest a serious cognitive disorder. Due to its complexity, only a licensed medical doctor, typically a neurologist, can diagnose dementia.

Types of Dementia

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, representing 60 to 80 percent of cases. It is a deadly disease that destroys brain cells and cognitive functions. Regrettably, individuals with Alzheimer's often recognize their own symptoms, which complicates their ability to communicate their experiences to others.

The second most common type of dementia is Vascular dementia, which results from a stroke. The Mayo Clinic describes a stroke as an event where the brain's blood supply is interrupted or reduced, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients and leading to the death of brain cells. Strokes can occur due to a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or a burst or leaking blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).

What dementia is NOT

Dementia is a complex condition that is not solely age-related, contrary to common misconceptions. According to the Alzheimer's organization, dementia is often mistakenly called "senility" or "senile dementia," reflecting the outdated belief that severe mental decline is a normal part of aging. Memory changes often occur with age, but not always.

The key distinction between normal age-related memory issues and dementia is how much they affect daily life. It's normal for everyone to forget things occasionally or to experience temporary 'brain fog.' However, having memory problems or difficulty thinking clearly does not necessarily indicate dementia.

Due to the complexity of this condition, it is recommended that anyone experiencing or knowing someone with cognitive difficulties seek medical advice.

Here are five potential signs of dementia:

1. Difficulty planning or solving problems: 

Individuals with dementia may suddenly struggle to create and follow plans. Tasks that were once simple, like managing finances or following a recipe, can become challenging. Problems with concentration can also arise during the early stages of dementia.

2. Trouble with familiar tasks: 

A noticeable sign of dementia is the reduced ability to perform routine tasks. A person may get lost on a well-known path or forget how to play a favorite game. Completing habitual tasks is usually automatic, so any significant changes in this ability warrant attention.

3. New problems with communication:

Individuals with dementia often struggle to follow conversations. They may stop interacting, forget what they've said (possibly repeating themselves), or be unsure of how to continue. They also frequently face vocabulary issues, like being unable to recall the right word.

4. WITHDRAWAL FROM SOCIAL OR WORK ACTIVITIES

As cognitive difficulties arise from dementia, individuals may withdraw from work or social engagements. This retreat can stem from personality shifts, fear, or denial. Whatever the cause, those with dementia may increasingly isolate themselves.

5. MEMORY LOSS DISRUPTIVE TO DAILY LIFE

The critical term here is "disruptive to daily life." While everyone experiences memory lapses, they seldom severely disrupt our daily activities. In dementia's early stages, one of the most common indicators is forgetting recently acquired information. Other signs of significant memory issues include:

• Forgetting significant dates or events
• Asking for the same information repeatedly
• Growing dependent on memory aids
• Relying more on others for remembering things

Conclusion

At present, there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease or other advanced dementias. However, medications can alleviate some symptoms, and support is available for those with dementia and their families.

The Alzheimer's Organization suggests six key measures to prevent dementia:

• Avoid smoking
• Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels within recommended ranges
• Follow a healthy, balanced diet
• Engage in regular exercise
• Keep a healthy weight
• Moderate alcohol intake.