Common Questions About Dementia
Dementia encompasses a range of progressive neurological conditions affecting millions globally. Its complexity often makes cognitive and behavioral changes difficult to comprehend, posing challenges for those affected and their loved ones. Gathering information and asking questions helps families understand the known causes of dementia, recognize early signs, and manage the impact of its progressive nature. Access to clear answers and trusted resources empowers seniors and caregivers to navigate the condition with confidence and compassion.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities. It affects nearly every aspect of daily life, including things like driving, paying bills, working, shopping for groceries, and even communicating with loved ones. While seniors are the most common group diagnosed with dementia, it is not a normal part of aging. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for 60–80% of cases [1].
Other types of dementia include:
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy Body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Parkinson’s disease
- Cerebrovascular disease
What Causes Dementia?
In many cases, the exact cause of dementia remains unclear. Ongoing research is still investigating the exact cause of the condition, though it’s widely believed that a buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain interferes with normal brain function.
The specific symptoms and progression depend on the area of the brain affected and the type of dementia. While memory loss is a common symptom, it is not the only sign, nor is it always immediately recognizable in the early stages.
While the more common forms of dementia, like Alzheimer’s, are not curable, there are several treatable conditions that cause dementia-like symptoms. These include:
- Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease: A rare, fatal neurodegenerative disorder caused by abnormal prion proteins, leading to rapid cognitive decline, movement difficulties, and other neurological symptoms
- Huntington’s Disease: A genetic neurodegenerative disorder that leads to progressive cognitive decline, movement disorders, and psychiatric symptoms, typically appearing in mid-adulthood
- Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy: A progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by repeated brain trauma, leading to cognitive impairment, mood disturbances, and motor dysfunction, often seen in athletes or those with a history of head injuries.
- HIV-Associated Dementia: A neurodegenerative condition caused by HIV infection, leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and motor dysfunction, though its prevalence has decreased with effective antiretroviral therapy.
Who is at Risk for Developing Dementia?
Anyone can develop dementia, though certain people are at greater risk due to varying conditions. Age remains the most significant risk factor among the causes of dementia. The average age of dementia onset is 65, while diagnosis often occurs in the mid-to-late 70s [1].
Several other risk factors for dementia include:
- Genetics: The presence of specific genes can increase an individual’s risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. In rare cases, certain gene mutations can even cause Alzheimer’s to run in the family. This form of familial dementia typically occurs before age 65 and follows a clear inheritance pattern [2].
- Lifestyle Choices: A link exists between cognitive decline and lifestyle choices. People who smoke and live sedentary lifestyles are at increased risk, whereas people who exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet are at lower risk [3].
- Health Conditions: Several chronic health conditions, particularly those affecting the circulatory system, increase the risk of developing dementia. Cardiovascular disease can impair blood flow to the brain and contribute to vascular dementia. Type 2 diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves throughout the body, including in the brain, and increases the risk of developing dementia [3].
- Mitigating Risk: Implementing healthy behaviors and managing chronic diseases are both proactive approaches to reducing the chances of developing dementia. Medical support helps people better recognize and control risk factors [3].
Signs and Symptoms of Dementia
A person who is at higher risk for cognitive decline may start to look for potential signs or symptoms of dementia to understand how it impacts mental health and cognition. Initially, signs are easier to overlook or mistake for normal aging. They often appear gradually and vary depending on the type of dementia.
Some common early signs of dementia include:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Difficulty with planning or problem-solving
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
- Problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps
- Changes in mood, personality, or behavior
How Does Dementia Progress Over Time?
Dementia is a progressive disease, and the symptoms increase over time. This progression varies greatly depending on the specific type and other underlying factors.
Generally, dementia causes progressive declines in cognition and is categorized into three stages [1]:
- Mild (early stage): The person is more aware of dementia and cognitive decline. The person may function independently but appear hypersensitive to even minor lapses.
- Moderate (middle stage): Symptoms are more pronounced than in early-stage dementia, and daily assistance is usually necessary.
- Severe (late stage): Communication and mobility are significantly impaired. Around-the-clock or hospice care is frequently required.
How is Dementia Diagnosed?
There is no single test to diagnose Alzheimer’s or any other form of dementia. Instead, healthcare providers use a combination of assessments and tools to rule out other health conditions and detect cognitive decline or brain shrinkage. These tests may include:
- Medical history review and physical examination
- Neurological exams to help assess balance, reflexes, and sensory function.
- Cognitive and neuropsychological testing to evaluate memory or language challenges. These tests also evaluate attention and problem-solving skills.
- Brain imaging, such as MRI or PET scans, to detect strokes, tumors, or brain shrinkage.
- Laboratory tests to help rule out other health conditions, such as vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems [4].
As part of this process, diagnosing dementia often requires collaboration among primary care physicians, neurologists, psychologists, and sometimes geriatric specialists.
How is Dementia Treated?
After a diagnosis, one of the most common questions is, can dementia be cured? While there is currently no cure for most forms of dementia, research is ongoing. For now, various treatments help patients and families to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:
- Medications: Cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., donepezil) and NMDA receptor antagonists (e.g., memantine) are commonly prescribed to treat cognitive symptoms in Alzheimer’s disease [5].
- Therapies: Occupational, cognitive stimulation, and music or art therapy can provide emotional support and preserve skills.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Regular physical activity, social engagement, mental stimulation, and a heart-healthy diet have all been linked to better brain health.
- Non-Drug Strategies: Creating a calm environment or using redirection techniques are two strategies to manage behavioral symptoms, such as agitation or wandering. Drug-free interventions are often a preferred first step versus medications.
How Can Families Provide Support?
The day-to-day life of a family caregiver is challenging, and the cost of providing care is high [6]. Acknowledging this helps families feel prepared for the challenges throughout this journey and maintain a positive relationship with the person with dementia.
Putting financial plans in place early on in the diagnosis helps families to prepare for what’s to come. In many cases, dementia is considered a disability that makes people eligible for federal financial assistance.
Naming a power of attorney makes it easier to access funds and take care of necessary expenses in the later stage of the disease. Discuss who will manage these tasks and how the person can ensure that decisions align with their loved one’s goals.
It is important to recognize the importance of self-care for caregivers, which helps them to find balance and remain centered. Taking advantage of respite support and making time for personal mental health makes a person better prepared to tackle the challenges of a loved one’s dementia [7].
Resources Available for Alzheimer’s and Dementia
There are many resources available to support people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, as well as family caregivers. These organizations offer a range of services, including education, support groups, care planning assistance, helplines, and access to local programs. Whether a person is looking for support or help navigating long-term care options, the following resources can provide valuable information and assistance:
- Alzheimer’s Association – Offers 24/7 helpline, education, local support groups, and resources for care planning and legal guidance.
- National Institute on Aging – Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center (ADEAR) – Provides up-to-date research, caregiving tips, and information on clinical trials.
- Family Caregiver Alliance – Offers support, educational materials, and services specifically for caregivers.
- Dementia Friendly America – Promotes community-based initiatives to better support those living with dementia.
- Alzheimers.gov – A federal government resource for information on Alzheimer’s and related dementias.
- Eldercare Locator – A public service that connects older adults and caregivers with local support services and community programs.
Answers, Hope, and Support for Dementia
Understanding dementia is the first step toward hope and providing support for those living with the condition. Scientists continue to investigate its root causes and seek answers to critical insights, such as cognitive awareness in dementia patients. It is a complex disorder, but with advances in research and improved diagnostic tools, modern families and professionals are better equipped than ever to manage the challenges of dementia.
A life-changing dementia diagnosis does not fully define a person’s identity or potential. Hope exists when communities recognize early signs of dementia and adequately address care needs through each stage. By asking questions and seeking answers, opportunities arise to lead dignified, meaningful lives in the face of dementia.
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- Alzheimer’s Association. (2023). 2023 Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures. https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf Accessed 11 April 2025.
- Giri, M., Zhang, M., & Lü, Y. (2021). Genes associated with Alzheimer’s disease: An overview and current status. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 16, 665–681. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27274215/ Accessed 11 April 2025.
- Livingston, G., Huntley, J., Sommerlad, A., Ames, D., Ballard, C., Banerjee, S., … & Cooper, C. (2020). Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission. The Lancet, 396(10248), 413–446. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(20)30367-6 Accessed 11 April 2025.
- Jack, C. R., Bennett, D. A., Blennow, K., Carrillo, M. C., Dunn, B., Haeberlein, S. B., Holtzman, D. M., Jagust, W., Jessen, F., Karlawish, J., Liu, E., Molinuevo, J. L., Montine, T., Phelps, C., Rankin, K. P., Rowe, C. C., Scheltens, P., Siemers, E., Snyder, H. M., … Silverberg, N. (2018). NIA-AA research framework: Toward a biological definition of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s & Dementia, 14(4), 535–562. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jalz.2018.02.018 Accessed 11 April 2025.
- Cummings, J., Lee, G., Zhong, K., Fonseca, J., & Taghva, K. (2019). Alzheimer’s disease drug development pipeline: 2019. Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions, 5, 272–293. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trci.2019.05.008 Accessed 11 April 2025.
- Gitlin, L. N., & Hodgson, N. A. (2016). Caregivers as therapeutic agents in dementia care: The evidence base for interventions supporting their role. In M. Gaugler & R. Kane (Eds.), Family caregiving in the new normal (pp. 305–353). Academic Press. Accessed 11 April 2025.
- Brodaty, H., & Donkin, M. (2009). Family caregivers of people with dementia. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 11(2), 217–228. https://doi.org/10.31887/DCNS.2009.11.2/hbrodaty Accessed 11 April 2025.
The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.
MentalHealth.com is a health technology company guiding people towards self-understanding and connection. The platform provides reliable resources, accessible services, and nurturing communities. Its purpose is to educate, support, and empower people in their pursuit of well-being.
Christine Dayton is a professional health writer with over a decade of experience in geriatric care and wellness, mental health, end-of-life support, and bereavement care.
Dr. Shivani Kharod, Ph.D. is a medical reviewer with over 10 years of experience in delivering scientifically accurate health content.
Medical Reviewer:
The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.
MentalHealth.com is a health technology company guiding people towards self-understanding and connection. The platform provides reliable resources, accessible services, and nurturing communities. Its purpose is to educate, support, and empower people in their pursuit of well-being.