Understanding Dementia in the Elderly

What is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. It is not a specific disease, but an overall term that describes a wide range of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person's ability to perform everyday activities.
Common Types of Dementia
- Alzheimer's Disease
- Vascular Dementia
- Lewy Body Dementia
- Frontotemporal Dementia
Symptoms of Dementia
Dementia symptoms vary depending on the cause, but common signs and symptoms include cognitive changes such as memory loss, difficulty communicating or finding words, difficulty with complex tasks, difficulty with planning and organizing, difficulty with coordination and motor functions, problems with disorientation, such as getting lost, and personality changes.
Managing Dementia in the Elderly
While there is no cure for dementia, treatments are available to manage symptoms. Medications can help with symptoms such as sleep disturbances and changes in behavior. Non-drug therapies can also be effective in managing symptoms of dementia. These include physical activity, a healthy diet, cognitive stimulation and social interaction.