Dementia doesn’t happen overnight — and it’s not always caused by aging. Discover the medical, lifestyle, and even unexpected factors that may lead to cognitive decline. Learn what to watch for, which types are preventable, and when to seek help for early signs
What is Dementia?
Dementia is not a single disease but rather an umbrella term for a range of symptoms characterized by a decline in cognitive abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. This progressive deterioration affects memory, thinking, language, problem-solving, and even motor skills. It results from damage to brain cells, which can be caused by various underlying conditions. While often associated with aging, it is not a normal part of the aging process.
Common Causes and Types
The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, accounting for 60-80% of cases. Other significant types include vascular dementia, often resulting from strokes or reduced blood flow to the brain, and Lewy body dementia, characterized by abnormal protein deposits. Frontotemporal dementia, which affects personality and behavior, and mixed dementia, a combination of types, also contribute to the complex landscape of this condition.
Diagnosis and Assessment
Diagnosing dementia typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. This includes a thorough medical history, physical examination, cognitive and neurological assessments, and sometimes brain imaging (like MRI or CT scans) to rule out other conditions or identify specific brain changes. Blood tests may also be conducted to check for treatable causes of cognitive decline, such as vitamin deficiencies or thyroid issues.
Main Causes of Dementia
Dementia encompasses a range of conditions characterized by cognitive decline. The main causes include:
Alzheimer’s Disease: The most common cause, characterized by plaques and tangles in the brain.
Vascular Dementia: Results from reduced blood flow to the brain, often following strokes or other vascular conditions.
Lewy Body Dementia: Involves abnormal protein deposits in the brain, affecting cognition and movement.
Frontotemporal Dementia: Affects the frontal and temporal lobes, impacting personality and language.
Each type of dementia presents differently, and understanding these causes aids in diagnosis and treatment planning