Forgetfulness, confusion, senility – cognitive decline can be labelled in many different ways. But these euphemisms often disguise or distract from the real issue, dementia.
So, what is dementia?
This guide explains exactly what dementia is, as well as its early signs, symptoms and treatments. It also reveals what you can do now to lower your risk of developing the condition.
Key Takeaways
- Dementia isn’t a single disease. It describes a general decline in cognitive functions caused by other diseases.
- The four main types of dementia are Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies and frontotemporal dementia.
- Dementia can’t be cured, but treatments, therapies and person-centred care can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected.
- A healthy lifestyle, mental stimulation and social engagement help reduce the risk of developing dementia.
What is Dementia?
Dementia isn’t a disease itself. It’s an umbrella term that describes a decline in cognitive functions brought on by other diseases.
People experiencing dementia struggle with:
- Remembering
- Thinking
- Communicating
- Reasoning
- Regulating emotions or behaviour
Symptoms are typically mild at first, but dementia is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time.
The majority of people living with dementia are over 65, which has led many people to wrongly assume it’s a natural part of ageing. Campaigners are trying to raise awareness of this misconception and the harm it causes.
What Causes Dementia?
There are four main types of dementia caused by different diseases.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It’s a physical condition affecting the brain.
In very simple terms, Alzheimer’s is the abnormal build-up of amyloid and tau, two proteins that occur naturally in the brain. Over time, these proteins clump together, affecting brain function.
The earliest signs of Alzheimer’s are memory problems and difficulty thinking. As the disease progresses, people with the condition will also experience challenges communicating and may misinterpret things they see or hear. Changes in behaviour or mood are also common advanced symptoms.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is the second most common type. There are several subtypes of vascular dementia, but all are caused by problems with blood flow to the brain.
The earliest signs are problems concentrating or making decisions. As a result, people with the condition need longer to think things through and may struggle to make plans or follow instructions.
Dementia with Lewy Bodies
Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is caused by Lewy body disease.
DLB is caused by the accumulation of Lewy bodies (tiny clumps of proteins) in the brain. It’s similar to Alzheimer’s in this way, which can make it difficult for doctors to diagnose the two correctly. There’s also a significant overlap between DLB and Parkinson’s, another reason DLB is commonly misdiagnosed.
Officially, around 5% of people living with dementia have DLB, but some scientists theorise this percentage should be closer to 20%.
Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal dementia is the least common of the four main types. It’s caused by damage to either the “frontal” or “temporal” lobes in the brain, hence the name.
The frontal lobes are towards the front of the brain. They process information and emotions, so nerve damage in this area causes problems with behaviour and problem-solving.
The temporal lobes are positioned on either side of the head, close to the ears. The right temporal lobe helps us recognise familiar people and objects, while the left helps us label things with words and recall names. Damage to these lobes first manifests in problems with language.
How is Dementia Diagnosed?
Although there are consistent symptoms across all types of dementia, it affects everyone differently, so diagnosis can be difficult. Identifying diseases in the brain of a living person is also complicated.
So, diagnosis is usually based on a generally agreed-upon set of early dementia symptoms. These are:
- Memory loss
- Problems concentrating, planning or making decisions
- Struggling to find the right word for something
- Difficulty following a conversation
- Misjudging distances, such as gaps between stairs
- Forgetting the time or date
- Sudden changes in mood
- Finding it hard to manage emotions
It’s important to note that everyone experiences mild versions of these symptoms occasionally, and struggling to recall someone’s name or remember why you walked into a room isn’t necessarily a cause for concern.
Dementia is only diagnosed when symptoms become severe enough to interfere with everyday life.
Is it Preventable?
Evidence strongly suggests that dementia is preventable. Researchers have found 12 risk factors that potentially make a diagnosis more likely. These are:
- Air pollution
- Brain injury
- Diabetes
- Depression
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Hearing impairment
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Low levels of education
- Low levels of physical activity
- Low levels of social contact
- Obesity
- Smoking
You can lower your chances of developing dementia by managing these risk factors. So, the best protection right now is a healthy, active lifestyle with plenty of social interactions and mental stimulation.
How is it Treated?
Dementia is currently incurable, but treatment can help people experiencing its effects live a long and fulfilling life.
People with Alzheimer’s, DLB or a combination of both can sometimes manage symptoms with medicine.
Talking therapies are also helpful. Many people living with the condition struggle more with the anxiety and shock of a diagnosis than the actual symptoms. Talking with a professional therapist can help people in the early stages process their emotions and adjust to the change.
As diseases develop, people living with dementia will need some form of care. A person-centred approach is best.
Person-Centred Care
Person-centred care is specific to the individual. Essentially, caregivers consider a person’s interests, history, personality and feelings when making care decisions.
This approach helps preserve the dignity and autonomy of people living with dementia, which helps prevent the frustration and isolation that can come with the condition. People with dementia will also be able to continue activities they enjoy and try new experiences, something many people assume is impossible after a diagnosis.
Learning More About Dementia Care
Understanding dementia is essential whether you’re supporting a loved one or working in a professional setting. Knowledge of the different types, early warning signs and person-centred care can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected.
For those looking to expand their understanding and provide better support, our online Dementia Awareness Training offers valuable insights and practical strategies for effective care. Learning how to apply these techniques can make a real difference in someone’s day-to-day experience.
About the author(s)
Jonathan Goby
