Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. It involves a deterioration of memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, but other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage but often include memory loss, difficulty communicating, confusion, changes in personality, and impaired judgment. The progression of dementia is typically slow, but it can lead to significant impairments in functioning as it advances. Risk factors include age, genetics, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and poor cardiovascular health. While there is no cure, treatment options focus on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life, including medications, therapies, and support for both patients and caregivers.

Types of Dementia: