Dementia is a decline in mental ability which affects memory, thinking, problem-solving, concentration and perception. Some forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease, are degenerative i.e. they get worse over time. Other forms of dementia, such as vascular dementia, may be non-degenerative i.e. they may not get worse over time.
People with dementia can become confused, leading to restless or repetitive behaviour, which can be very distressing for everyone concerned. They may also seem irritable, tearful or agitated. They may also develop other problems such as depression, disturbed sleep, aggression, inappropriate sexual behaviour and incontinence.
Dementia is almost invariably a disease of ageing. About 1 in 20 people over the age of 65 are affected, and 1 in 5 people over the age of 80. Dementia in people under 65 is known as early onset or pre-senile dementia and is rare, affecting under 1 in 1000.
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Dementia occurs as a result of the death of brain cells or damage in parts of the brain that deal with our thought processes. This may follow other problems like:
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lack of blood/oxygen supply to these brain areas
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head injury e.g. from boxing or whip lash after a car crash
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pressure on the brain e.g. from a tumour
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hydrocephalus (fluid build-up between the brain and the brain lining)
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neurological disease e.g. Parkinson's disease, Creutzfeld Jakob disease (CJD)
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infection e.g. AIDS
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vitamin deficiency
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a long period of excessive alcohol intake
The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer's disease. We do not know what causes Alzheimer's disease but we do know that ageing seems to be a factor. The second most common type of dementia is vascular or multi-infarct dementia. This occurs as a result of lack of blood and oxygen to the brain in a series of tiny 'strokes'.
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Unfortunately, most types of dementia cannot be cured. The exceptions are those dementias related to vitamin deficiency (which can be treated with supplements) and head injury (which can be treated through surgery).
Anti-dementia drugs, such as Aricept and Reminyl, may be given to alleviate the symptoms of dementia but they cannot cure it. Medical researchers are currently looking at other medical treatments including anti-oxidants, brain stem cell therapy and a vaccination to stop the build up of plaques in the brain (a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease).
Non-medical interventions such as cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) are of benefit to people with mild to moderate dementia, and alternative therapies such as music therapy, aromatherapy and reminiscence therapy can be of benefit too.
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There are no guaranteed ways of preventing dementia, but you may find it helpful to follow a sensible diet and pursue a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical exercise and supplements like Gingko Biloba can help to ensure that there is always a good supply of blood to the brain. Please consult your GP before taking such medication. You can also help yourself by keeping your mind active, for example by doing crosswords or puzzles.
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