Dementia Demystified: Types, Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention

As we explore the intricate maze of the human brain, a baffling riddle presents itself, one that has confounded researchers, healthcare providers, and loved ones for generations: dementia.

Dementia affects an estimated 50 million people worldwide, eroding the memories, identities, and connections that once defined them. The global prevalence of dementia is projected to triple by 2050, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), so understanding this complex condition has never been more critical.

What is dementia? - symptoms and diagnosis

Dementia is a general term for a range of neurodegenerative disorders characterised by a progressive decline in brain function, affecting memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday tasks.

Dementia has affected numerous notable individuals throughout history. Among them is former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, who bravely went public with his Alzheimer's diagnosis in 1994, raising awareness about the disease.

British author Terry Pratchett, known for his prolific Discworld series, was diagnosed with a rare form of early-onset Alzheimer's in 2007 and became an advocate for dementia research.

Glen Campbell, a country music icon, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2011, and subsequently embarked on a farewell tour to connect with fans while raising awareness for the condition. These famous individuals have all played a part in raising the public's understanding and empathy for those affected by dementia.

DID YOU KNOW? There can be more than one form of dementia happening at once. This is known as mixed dementia.

Dementia is a collection of symptoms (rather than a single disease) resulting from damage to the brain caused by different diseases. Common symptoms of dementia include memory loss, confusion, mood changes, difficulty in communication, and impaired judgment. Early detection and diagnosis are crucial, as they allow for timely interventions and support for the individual and their family. Let's take a look at the the four most common ones, and their symptoms:

1. Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. It primarily affects memory, language, and problem-solving skills and is characterised by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits in the brain.

Symptoms: Alzheimer's disease is characterised by symptoms such as memory loss, repetitive questioning, difficulty with planning and organisation, confusion in unfamiliar settings, trouble finding words, challenges with numbers and money handling, and increased withdrawal or anxiety.

2. Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia is the second most prevalent type of dementia, next to Alzheimer's disease. It causes a deterioration in cognitive abilities, including memory and reasoning. This occurs due to obstructions or diminished blood supply to different brain areas, leading to a shortage of vital nutrients and oxygen.

Symptoms: Although vascular dementia shares symptoms with Alzheimer's, memory loss may be less noticeable in the early stages.

Symptoms of vascular dementia may develop suddenly or over a prolonged period, including stroke-like symptoms such as muscle weakness, movement issues, changes in cognitive function like attention and reasoning, and mood changes like depression and emotional instability. If stroke-like symptoms are present, urgent medical attention is necessary.

3. Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy Body Dementia is characterised by the presence of abnormal protein deposits called Lewy bodies in the brain. Symptoms may include cognitive fluctuations, visual hallucinations, and motor symptoms like Parkinson's disease.

Symptoms: Dementia with Lewy bodies shares symptoms with Alzheimer's disease, including memory loss, but individuals may also experience fluctuating confusion, visual hallucinations, slowed physical movements, falls, fainting, and sleep disturbances.

4. Frontotemporal Dementia

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD), also known as frontotemporal degeneration, encompasses a collection of conditions resulting from the gradual deterioration of neurons behind the forehead (the brain's frontal regions) or behind the ears (the temporal areas).

Symptoms: FTD is more likely to affect younger individuals, with most cases diagnosed in people aged 45-65. Early signs of FTD may include personality changes such as insensitivity to others' feelings, a lack of social awareness, inappropriate jokes, or apathy. Language difficulties, such as trouble finding words or understanding them, may also occur, as well as obsessions with unusual foods, overeating, or drinking.

MYTH BUST: Dementia is often shrouded in misconceptions - and one of the most common myths is that dementia is a normal part of ageing. In reality, while ageing increases the risk of developing dementia, it is not an inevitable outcome of growing older. Many older individuals retain sharp cognitive faculties throughout their lives.

Dementia typically affects individuals aged 65 and older, however, early-onset dementia, occurring before age 65, accounts for 5-10% of dementia cases. Though less common, early-onset dementia can impact people in their 40s or 50s, necessitating timely diagnosis and support.

Causes and risk factors

Genetics play a role in dementia, particularly in early-onset Alzheimer's disease. However, various other factors contribute to the development of dementia, such as age, lifestyle factors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

DID YOU KNOW? In the 60s and 70s, aluminium was suspected of potentially contributing to Alzheimer's disease. This concern raised questions about daily exposure to aluminium from cookware, foil, drink cans, and antiperspirants. Subsequent research was unable to establish a link between aluminium and Alzheimer's.

Preventing dementia

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, adopting specific lifestyle choices that promote brain health can significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline. These choices include maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which may help protect against dementia. Engaging in regular physical exercise, such as walking or swimming, can also enhance brain health and potentially lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

Staying cognitively stimulated is another vital component in supporting brain health. Activities such as reading, solving puzzles, using your non-dominant hand, learning a new skill or language, and participating in social engagements can help keep the mind active and delay cognitive decline. Interestingly, research has found that bilingualism can delay the onset of dementia by up to five years, showcasing the benefits of language learning for brain health.

To conclude

Dementia is a complex and multifaceted condition that impacts the lives of millions of individuals worldwide, along with their families and caregivers. As our understanding of dementia and its various forms grows, it is essential to dispel misconceptions, spread awareness, and emphasise the importance of early detection and intervention.

Now we have covered the four most common types of dementia, their symptoms, causes, risk factors, and preventive measures. By making informed lifestyle choices, maintaining mental and physical health, and staying connected to a supportive community, we can collectively reduce the risk of cognitive decline and improve the quality of life for those with dementia.

As research advances, we remain hopeful that our expanding knowledge will contribute to more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for this devastating condition.