Dementia a Neuro-Cognitive Disorder

Dementia is a progressive neuro-cognitive disorder that is characterised by impairments in reasoning, mood and behaviour that is not considered to be age related. Dementia is the result of changes in specific brain regions that cause nerve cells and their connections to stop working properly and can significantly impact an individual’s normal daily functioning. There are various forms of Dementia which include ; Alzheimer’s Disease , Vascular Dementia , Frontotemperal Dementia and Lewy Body Dementia. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most commonly diagnosed and accounts for approximately 60 % -70 % of Dementia cases. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that often begins with mild memory loss accompanied by a gradual decline in cognitive functioning. The on set of this disease is typically around age 60 with an average life expectancy of 8-10 years.  However, a small number of people may experience early-onset” Alzheimer disease, which starts when they are in their 30s or 40s. 

Family members play a vital role in recognizing the signs and symptoms of Dementia in their loved ones. Here are some key indicators to watch out for:

1. Memory loss : One of the hallmark symptoms of Dementia is significant memory loss that disrupts daily life. This may include forgetting recently learned information, repeating questions or statements, and relying heavily on memory aids or reminders.

2. Difficulty with tasks : Individuals with Dementia may struggle with familiar tasks and routines, such as following recipes, managing finances, or completing household chores. They may also have difficulty in planning and organizing activities.

3. Confusion and disorientation : People with Dementia may become disoriented, especially in unfamiliar surroundings. They may have trouble recognizing familiar places or people, and may frequently get lost, even in familiar environments.

4. Language and communication challenges : Dementia can impact language abilities, leading to difficulties in finding the right words (Anomia) , following conversations, or expressing thoughts coherently. Some individuals may also have trouble understanding spoken or written language.

5. Changes in mood and personality: Dementia can cause significant changes in mood and behaviour. Family members may notice sudden mood swings, irritability, apathy, or withdrawal from social activities. Personality changes, such as becoming more aggressive or suspicious, may also occur.

6. Decreased judgment and decision-making : Individuals with Dementia may exhibit poor judgment and decision-making skills, making them vulnerable to exploitation or unsafe situations. They may engage in risky behaviours or have difficulty assessing the consequences of their actions.

8. Difficulty with visual perception: Some types of Dementia can affect visual perception, leading to problems with depth perception, object recognition, or visual-spatial skills. This may manifest as difficulty navigating obstacles or misinterpreting visual cues.

9. Impaired motor skills : As Dementia progresses, individuals may experience difficulty with motor skills and coordination. This may manifest as unsteady gait, difficulty with balance, or trouble with fine motor tasks such as writing or buttoning clothes.

By Ashakee Mahabeer

Neuropsychologist