Dementia
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term for diseases that damage brain cells, leading to cognitive decline beyond normal aging. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, accounting for 60–70% of cases. According to the World Health Organization’s Dementia Fact Sheet, in 2021 there were 57 million people living with dementia worldwide, and nearly 10 million new cases emerge each year.
Early Signs and Symptoms
Dementia symptoms vary by subtype and individual but often begin subtly. Early indicators include:
Forgetting recent events or appointments
Misplacing items frequently
Getting lost in familiar places
Difficulty solving simple problems or following conversations
Mood and behavior changes, such as increased anxiety or apathy
Over time, people may lose the ability to perform everyday tasks and require assistance for personal care. For a detailed list, see the NHS guide on Common Early Symptoms of Dementia.
Common Types of Dementia
Alzheimer’s Disease: Characterized by amyloid plaques and tau tangles disrupting neuron function.
Vascular Dementia: Caused by reduced blood flow due to strokes or vessel damage, leading to slowed thinking and planning difficulties.
Dementia with Lewy Bodies: Marked by visual hallucinations, fluctuating alertness, and movement issues.
Frontotemporal Dementia: Presents with early personality and language changes, often in people aged 45–65.
Mixed Dementia: Coexistence of more than one form, such as Alzheimer’s plus vascular dementia.
What Causes Dementia?
Dementia results from various brain injuries and diseases:
Age: Risk rises markedly after 65 years.
Cardiovascular Factors: Hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and smoking damage blood vessels.
Neuropathology: Protein deposits (amyloid, tau) and Lewy bodies impair neural communication.
Lifestyle & Social: Physical inactivity, social isolation, and untreated depression also contribute.
Diagnosis
Dr. Sandeep Budhwar will use:
Clinical Assessment: Review of medical, neurological, and psychiatric history.
Cognitive Testing: Standard tools like the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).
Neuroimaging & Labs: MRI/CT scans and blood tests to rule out reversible causes.
Functional Evaluation: Assessing ability to manage daily activities.
Treatment and Care
There is no cure, but interventions can slow progression and manage symptoms:
Pharmacological Therapies
Cholinesterase Inhibitors (Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Galantamine): Improve cognition in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
NMDA Receptor Antagonist (Memantine): For moderate to severe Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.
SSRIs: To address depression or anxiety when lifestyle changes aren’t enough.
Antipsychotics (Haloperidol, Risperidone): Conditionally recommended for severe agitation or psychosis; use with caution due to risk of side effects.
Non-Pharmacological Strategies
Cognitive Stimulation: Memory exercises, puzzles, and structured activities.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise supports brain health and mood.
Social Engagement: Group activities and community involvement to reduce isolation.
Environmental Modifications: Labeling rooms, simplifying home layout, and using reminders.
Supporting Self-Care and Planning
Maintain a healthy diet, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, and manage chronic conditions.
Use calendars, reminder apps, and notebooks to track appointments and tasks.
Establish an advance care plan, appoint trusted decision-makers, and carry identification and emergency contacts.
Engage family and friends for practical help and emotional support.
When and How to Seek Help
If you or a loved one notice persistent memory loss, confusion, or difficulty with daily activities, consult Dr. Budhwar:
Visit our home page for further resources and guidance.
Living with dementia can be challenging, but with early diagnosis, comprehensive care, and strong support systems, patients can maintain dignity, autonomy, and a meaningful quality of life.