Dementia

Dementia is a broad term that describes a decline in cognitive function significant enough to interfere with daily life. It is characterized by the progressive deterioration of memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Although dementia primarily affects older adults, it is not a normal part of aging. It results from a variety of diseases and injuries that primarily or secondarily affect the brain, such as Alzheimer's disease or stroke.

Different types of dementia are associated with distinct symptom patterns and brain abnormalities. Diagnosis is based on history, clinical examination, and oftentimes, biomarkers or neuroimaging to identify specific pathological changes. Management includes pharmacological treatments for specific types of dementia (like Alzheimer's), symptom management, and a broad range of supportive, social, and behavioral interventions to improve quality of life for patients and their caregivers. While some dementia types are irreversible and progressive, some are reversible if the cause is addressed. Therefore, early diagnosis and intervention can be critical.