Dementia is a general term to describe a disease that impairs the cognitive functioning of the brain. There are four common types of dementia: Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy Bodies, and frontotemporal dementia. Dementia can lead to an inability to function on a daily basis. People with dementia may not be able to perform daily activities such as walking, using the toilet, eating, and getting out of bed. Early warning signs of dementia include the following: changes in language abilities, sudden bouts of confusion, the decline in planning and organization, getting lost in familiar places, repeated falls or loss of balance, and personality changes. However, Lifestyle changes including regular exercise, engagement in brain training activities, and being socially engaged can help control the symptoms of dementia.

Dementia

Additional Info:

• What is Dementia? — UCSF Memory and Aging Center

• A Patient’s Guide to Dementia — UCSF Memory and Aging Center

• What is Dementia? — Alzheimer’s Association

• Dementia — Mayo Clinic

• Alzheimer’s Disease — Mayo Clinic

• Dementia — Medline Plus

• What is Parkinson’s? — Parkinson’s Foundation

• Managing the risk of dementia — Alzheimer’s Society

• Brain Exercises and Dementia — WebMD

Different Types of Dementia