Dementia is a general term used to describe a range of symptoms resulting from damage to the brain caused by disease, injury, or illness. It involves a decline in mental abilities such as memory, concentration, judgment, communication, learning, and problem-solving. These symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily life and functioning.
Dementia is caused by various diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, but it is not a normal part of aging and not a disease itself.
What Causes Dementia?
Dementia occurs when brain cells are damaged or destroyed due to diseases, injuries, or illnesses. This damage results in the shrinking of the brain and the development of holes in specific areas.
Core Symptoms of Dementia
For dementia to be diagnosed, at least two core mental functions must be significantly impaired:
Memory
Communication and language
Ability to focus and pay attention
Reasoning and judgment
Visual perception
These symptoms are consistent across all types of dementia, though specific types may damage different parts of the brain.
Common Effects of Dementia
People with dementia often experience:
Memory loss (e.g., forgetting things or repeating questions and stories)
Trouble understanding or using words
Forgetting how to perform familiar tasks
Disorientation (e.g., not recognizing familiar places or people)
Unrealistic ideas or perceptions (e.g., hallucinations or delusions)
Frustration or mood swings
Personality changes
How to Respond to a Person with Dementia
Caring for someone with dementia requires patience and understanding. Keep in mind:
The behavior is not intentional: The person’s brain is no longer functioning correctly, so they are not purposely being difficult.
Don’t take it personally: If you feel frustrated or upset, pause and take a deep breath.
Avoid conflict: Never argue, shout, lecture, ridicule, or force them to do something against their will.
Focus on positivity: Look for opportunities to praise them for what they can still do.
The Power of Your Attitude
Your attitude plays a significant role in interactions with someone who has dementia. A positive, calm approach can influence the outcome of the situation and help create a more supportive and compassionate environment for the individual.
Dementia is caused by various diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, but it is not a normal part of aging and not a disease itself.
What Causes Dementia?
Dementia occurs when brain cells are damaged or destroyed due to diseases, injuries, or illnesses. This damage results in the shrinking of the brain and the development of holes in specific areas.
Core Symptoms of Dementia
For dementia to be diagnosed, at least two core mental functions must be significantly impaired:
Memory
Communication and language
Ability to focus and pay attention
Reasoning and judgment
Visual perception
These symptoms are consistent across all types of dementia, though specific types may damage different parts of the brain.
Common Effects of Dementia
People with dementia often experience:
Memory loss (e.g., forgetting things or repeating questions and stories)
Trouble understanding or using words
Forgetting how to perform familiar tasks
Disorientation (e.g., not recognizing familiar places or people)
Unrealistic ideas or perceptions (e.g., hallucinations or delusions)
Frustration or mood swings
Personality changes
How to Respond to a Person with Dementia
Caring for someone with dementia requires patience and understanding. Keep in mind:
The behavior is not intentional: The person’s brain is no longer functioning correctly, so they are not purposely being difficult.
Don’t take it personally: If you feel frustrated or upset, pause and take a deep breath.
Avoid conflict: Never argue, shout, lecture, ridicule, or force them to do something against their will.
Focus on positivity: Look for opportunities to praise them for what they can still do.
The Power of Your Attitude
Your attitude plays a significant role in interactions with someone who has dementia. A positive, calm approach can influence the outcome of the situation and help create a more supportive and compassionate environment for the individual.
