Dementia - An overview

Dementia isn’t one single disease, but a collection of symptoms caused by different illnesses, with Alzheimer’s disease being the one most people are familiar with.

It is a condition that affects the brain, making it harder for a person to think, remember, and communicate. I once had it described to me as your brain being like a large library where every memory, thought, and piece of information is like a book. In a healthy brain, these books are easy to find and use. With dementia, however, many of these books become misplaced, jumbled, or even lost.

Memory and Retention

One of the most noticeable, and known about impacts of dementia is on memory. A person with dementia might struggle to remember recent events or conversations, similar to how a library might lose track of new books added to its collection. This loss of retention makes it hard to recall important dates, familiar names, or details about recent experiences. Not only does this affect recalling past events, but it also makes learning new information much more challenging.

As the Dementia gets worse, so other types of memory are affected with the longer term usually being the last to go.

Understanding and Weighing Information

Dementia doesn’t just affect memory—it also impacts the ability to understand and process information. Think of it like trying to put together a puzzle when some pieces are missing or damaged. For someone with dementia, making sense of a conversation or understanding instructions can be extremely difficult. They might have trouble remembering different pieces of information in order to weigh them up as part of their decision making. Even choosing between different options or planning out a simple task can feel overwhelming because the brain struggles to organize and evaluate all the necessary details.

Receptive and Expressive Communication

Communication is a key area that dementia affects, and it does so in two main ways:

• Receptive Communication: This involves understanding the messages received from others. A person with dementia may find it hard to follow a conversation, especially if it involves complex ideas or fast speech. Even when someone explains something clearly, the brain might not be able to retain, apply or process all the information, leading to misunderstandings and confusion.

• Expressive Communication: This is about how express ourselves – for example talking. Dementia can make it difficult to find the right words or put thoughts into clear sentences. Imagine trying to tell a story but the words just don’t come out right. This difficulty can lead to short or repetitive sentences and may leave the person feeling frustrated or isolated because they can’t express themselves the way they used to.

  
  

Improving Communication

Even though dementia makes communication and retaining and processing information more challenging, there are several strategies that can help make interactions smoother:

• Speak Clearly and Slowly: Use simple language and short sentences. This gives the person extra time to process your words.

• Maintain Eye Contact: Looking at the person while talking can help them focus on the conversation.

• Be Patient: Allow extra time for the person to understand and respond. Avoid interrupting or finishing sentences for them.

• Use Visual Aids: Gestures, written notes, or pictures can help reinforce your message.

• Minimize Distractions: A quiet environment with fewer background noises can make it easier for the person to concentrate on the conversation.

• Listen Actively: Show empathy by nodding or summarizing what you heard to ensure you both understand each other.

  
  

Types of Dementia and Their Symptoms

Some of the most common types include:

• Alzheimer's Disease: Probably the most common and well known it causes memory loss, confusion, and changes in behaviour. It starts slowly but worsens over time, often affecting language, spatial awareness, and the ability to recognize loved ones.

• Vascular Dementia: Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, usually from strokes or small vessel damage. It can result in difficulties with planning, reasoning, and problem-solving.

• Lewy Body Dementia: Caused by abnormal protein deposits in the brain, this type leads to memory problems, as well as hallucinations and movement issues similar to Parkinson's disease.

• Frontotemporal Dementia: Affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to dramatic personality changes, social withdrawal, and language problems. It often strikes people at a younger age, sometimes in their 40s or 50s.

Risk Factors and Prevention

We are still not 100% sure what causes Dementia. However, research does indicate that while aging is the biggest risk factor for dementia, it’s not the only one. Genetics, family history, and certain health conditions—such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease—can increase the risk.

Studies show that leading a healthy lifestyle can help delay the onset of dementia or reduce its impact. This includes:

• Regular physical exercise

• A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats

• Staying mentally active with puzzles, reading, or learning new skills

• Social engagement with friends, family, and community activities

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, adopting these healthy habits can improve brain health and reduce risk.

Recognizing Early Signs and Getting Help

Dementia progresses slowly, and early symptoms are often subtle, such as forgetfulness, difficulty finding the right words, or becoming disoriented in familiar places. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to consult your GP as soon as possible. Research shows that early intervention allows for better management of the condition, access to resources, and potentially medications that may slow the progression in some cases.