Understanding Dementia
Dementia is not a single disease, but rather a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. This decline occurs because of damage to brain cells, impacting their ability to communicate with each other. Symptoms can include difficulties with memory, thinking, problem-solving, language, and behaviour.
While there is currently no cure for most types of dementia, some causes are reversible, and treatments can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.it’s critically important to note that individuals do not die of dementia, but rather from complications arising from the associated health decline.
Types of Dementia
Over 50 different diseases can cause dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, accounting for an estimated 60-80% of cases. Vascular dementia,which occurs due to reduced blood flow to the brain,is the second most common type. Other forms include Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and mixed dementia.
Risk Factors and Causes
The development of dementia is complex and often multifactorial.Lifestyle factors,such as diet,exercise,and social engagement,are increasingly recognized as playing a role. Genetics can also contribute,notably in rarer forms of dementia,but in most cases,dementia is not directly inherited. Age is the greatest known risk factor for most types of dementia.