What is Dementia?
We’re all familiar with the term Dementia but what exactly is it and how can we navigate this ambiguous condition to the best of our ability when we do realise it’s beginning to affect someone we love?
In order for you, your friends and family members to experience happier ageing, the first step is to grasp a firm understanding of what Dementia is and isn’t. According to Dementia Australia, dementia does not refer to any one specific disease. It’s more of an umbrella term that is used to describe a broad range of symptoms associated with decline in memory or additional cognitive skills that are severe enough to reduce a person’s ability to perform everyday activities.
Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60 to 80 percent of Dementia cases while Vascular Dementia, which occurs after a stroke, is the second most common type of Dementia.
Even though Dementia usually does involve memory loss, memory loss alone does not mean you or your loved one has Dementia. According to medical experts, the symptoms of Dementia can vary greatly; however typically two of the following core mental functions must be significantly impaired in order for a person’s condition to be considered as Dementia:
- Memory
- Communication and language
- Ability to focus and pay attention
- Reasoning and judgment
- Visual perception
Findings developed by the Mayo Clinic say that if someone you care about is displaying the following cognitive and psychological signs, then Dementia is most likely happening:
Cognitive changes
- Memory loss, often detected by a spouse, close friend or family member
- Difficulty communicating or finding the right words
- Difficulty reasoning or problem-solving
- Difficulty handling complex tasks
- Difficulty with planning and organising
- Difficulty with coordination and motor functions
- Confusion and disorientation
Psychological changes
- Personality changes
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Inappropriate behavior
- Paranoia
- Agitation
- Hallucinations
Regardless of how old we are, we are all forgetful from time to time. But as we age, our risk of being affected by dementia increases. According to research, by the time we turn 85 years old, nearly 35-percent of people in our age group will be afflicted with Dementia and experience the gradual decline of memory loss and mental skills.
