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  • What is dementia?

What is dementia?

Dementia is the term used to describe a group of symptoms that occur when the brain is affected by specific diseases and conditions. There are many different types of dementia, both inherited and non-inherited forms, with Alzheimer’s the most commonly diagnosed type, followed by Vascular Dementia.

Symptoms may include problems with orientation, sequencing or memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. It is important to understand that dementia affects people in different ways, and the experience of living with dementia can be affected by a number of factors.

Medicines have been developed that, for some people, may help improve symptoms or temporarily slow down the progression of their dementia, but the condition is progressive, which means the symptoms will eventually get worse.

As our population continues to grow older, more and more of us are likely to know someone living with dementia and it is important to know that people living with dementia are not alone. Having a better understanding of the challenges a person living with dementia may face, and how to support them, can help us all form practical strategies to ensure people continue to live a happy and fulfilling life.
 

Most common forms of dementia

Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, it typically begins with lapses in memory, mood swings and difficulty in word finding. Later the person may become confused and may find it difficult to understand what is being said.

What-is-dementiaVascular dementia

Vascular dementia describes all forms of dementia caused by damage to the blood vessels to the brain. Symptoms can occur suddenly after a stroke or over time through a series of small strokes known as multi infarct dementia.

Frontal lobe dementia

Including Pick’s disease, Frontal lobe dementia is a form of dementia where damage to brain cells is more localised than in Alzheimer’s disease, usually beginning in the front part of the brain. Initially personality and behaviour are more affected than memory, but in the later stages symptoms are similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease.

Lewy bodies

This form of dementia gets its name from the tiny spherical structures made of proteins that develop inside nerve cells. Their presence in the brain leads to the degeneration and death of brain tissue, affecting memory, concentration and language skills. People with Lewy bodies may have visual hallucinations. They may also develop physical problems such as slowness of movement, stiffness and tremor.

Related information about dementia

Reframing Dementia - a guide to living with dementia

Reframing Dementia - a guide to living with dementia

As a nation we are remarkably reluctant to think and talk about dementia, but a conversation is a vital starting point to prepare ourselves for what might come in later life. Read our guide.

What is dementia?

What is dementia?

Dementia is the term used to describe a group of symptoms that occur when the brain is affected by specific diseases and conditions. Find out more about dementia.

Spotting the early signs of dementia

Spotting the early signs of dementia

It is important to understand that dementia affects people in different ways. Find out more about the possible symptoms and signs of dementia to be aware of.

How to start positive conversations about dementia

How to start positive conversations about dementia

Discussing dementia can seem like a daunting prospect but using the right questions and conversation starters can help families begin important conversations in a positive manner.

How to get a diagnosis of dementia

How to get a diagnosis of dementia

There is advice and support available for people with dementia, a diagnosis can ensure you have access to the right information to help you plan for your future.

Supporting loved ones living with dementia

Supporting loved ones living with dementia

Being diagnosed with dementia can be a daunting and upsetting time, and the support of close family and friends is invaluable – in addition to knowing which experts to turn to for support.

Meeting the emotional needs of people living with dementia

Meeting the emotional needs of people living with dementia

Meeting the emotional needs of people living with dementia can be hard. Often a person can have trouble expressing themselves, which may lead to frustration as a result.

Dietary recommendations for people with dementia

Dietary recommendations for people with dementia

Sometimes people with dementia can have a poor appetite or lose interest in food altogether. Find out more about the different ways you can help boost appetite and encourage a person to enjoy meals.

Activities for people living with dementia

Activities for people living with dementia

People living with dementia should have access to a wide range of carefully considered individual and group activities, with plenty of opportunity to socialise with others. Find out about the importan

Adapting living environments for people with dementia

Adapting living environments for people with dementia

It’s important to create safe and supportive environments where people living with dementia can live comfortably, maintain their independence and not feel restricted in any way. Find out more.

Dementia care options

Dementia care options

If a person’s dementia means that they need specialist dementia care or support and are no longer able to live independently in their own home, there are lots of different care options available.

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