Dementia- literally meaning ‘deprived mind’- describes a group of symptoms caused by disorders that affect the brain. Also called senility, it is not a specific disease. It may be static- the result of one brain injury, or progressive and leading to long-term decline in cognitive function.

Although Dementia typically affects older people, it could happen at any age in adulthood. It is caused by a destruction of brain cells either through a head injury, a stroke, a brain tumor or Alzheimer’s disease. Some people are genetically predisposed to Dementia because it is hereditary.

On of the major symptoms of Dementia is memory loss. Other symptoms include problems with attention, language or problem solving, an inability to control emotions and moods or personality changes. They may become disorientated and not be able to find their way home, misplace things, ask the same questions over and over again or get distracted easily. Those with Dementia are also more likely to suffer from depression or anxiety attacks. Symptoms can either be reversible or irreversible.

There are two types of dementia. Cortical dementias occurring in the part of the brain that deals with memory and causes Alzheimer’s disease or Vascular dementia among others, and Subcortical dementias which causes changes in personality and attention span and can lead to Huntington’s Disease or Parkinson’s Disease.

People suspected of Dementia will be referred to a specialist, usually a geriatric psychiatrist or a neurologist for diagnosis. Certain tests are carried out to determine if a person is suffering from the illness, for instance an abbreviated mental test score (AMTS) which takes around 10 minutes and a score of less than six out of ten will lead to a possible diagnosis. A person will have to have exhibited signs of Dementia for over six months to be diagnosed. Blood tests are also done to rule out other causes.

There is no cure for Dementia, although scientists are working on a treatment that will slow down the process. Cholinesterase inhibitors are used in the early stage of treatment and other drugs help treat anxiety and other dementia-associated symptoms. Cognitive and behavioral therapy is also recommended, as well as help and support for those caring for the sufferers.

A healthy, Mediterranean diet and regular moderate consumption of alcohol are ways to reduce the risk of suffering from the many forms of Dementia, as well as a reduced blood pressure. Adult day care centers and special care units in nursing homes often provide specialist care for Dementia patients.