Introduction 

Dementia is a condition where the brain loses its cells over time, causing changes in how the mind works. It leads to differences in thinking and, eventually, changes in physical abilities.

Symptoms

• Loss of executive function.
• Loss of the ability to concentrate, plan, take initiative, and make sound judgments think abstractly and problem solve.
   

The four A’s in Dementias: 

 Amnesia : memory loss

Aphasia : loss of language  

Apraxia : impaired motor skills 

Agnosia : inability to recognize and identity objects or people 

Diagnosis 

Dementia cannot be definitively diagnosed unless autopsy and brain analysis are performed. However, a diagnosis of portable dementia is only given when every other reason for the memory decline has been eliminated.

Pseudo-Dementia

While an elderly person may seem to be suffering from dementia, they may instead be suffering from a treatable illness like depression, delirium brought on by medication side effects, thyroid issues, B12 insufficiency, etc. For this reason, conducting research before making a diagnosis is important.

DEMENTIA IS NOT NORMAL PART OF AGING