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Understanding Dementia
Dementia is a word used to describe the symptoms of many diseases and processes. Dementia itself is not a specific disease but a collection of symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
- Memory loss
- Loss of reasoning
- Loss of cognition, thinking skills
- Poor judgement
Avoid questions involving why or how,, instead of asking what, when and where, because the person with Alzheimer's disease can no longer reason. This could help decrease agitation and frustration.
It may be helpful in the early stages of the Alzheimer's disease process to use notes, calendars, and signs to prompt the person with memory loss from the disease.
Dementia that may be caused by urinary tract infections and dehydration can be reversible. If you notice increased confusion, look for these clues first:
- Dehydration
- Infection
- Malnutrition (simply not eating enough)
- Medication changes
- Changes in routine/environment
Dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease is non-reversible because it causes physical changes in the brain. Neurons are brain cells that pass information from one part of the brain to another. Plagues and tangles in the brain cells characterize Alzheimer's disease. Plagues and tangles interrupt transmission of information between neurons; causing the messages to not get through.
Alzheimer's is a progressive disease.
More Information about Alzheimer's Disease
Learn more about Alzheimer's and Dementia in our Elder Health Guides section by reading Alzheimer's Disease: An Overview.
Back to Caregiver Tips for more tips!
