1.1 Define the term ‘dementia’
Dementia is a broad term that refers to a group of symptoms caused by ongoing damage to the brain, which results in a gradual decline in mental abilities. These changes can be severe enough to interfere with everyday life. It often affects memory, logical thinking, planning skills, and how people handle simple daily tasks. However, dementia itself isn’t one specific disease-it occurs as a result of various conditions that harm the brain (Alzheimer’s Association, 2020).
The most common cause of this condition is Alzheimer’s disease, responsible for 60-80% of all cases (World Health Organization [WHO], 2017). Still, there are many other contributors. For instance, strokes or restricted blood flow can lead to vascular dementia. Another example is the Lewy body; this type involves unusual clusters of proteins forming inside nerve cells in the brain and disrupting normal function.
Doctors use several methods to figure out if someone has dementia. They look at cognitive issues using reasoning tests and problem-solving assessments. Alongside these evaluations, physical exams are performed carefully so they don’t mistakenly attribute treatable conditions like low vitamin levels or thyroid gland issues to irreversible brain disorders.
Here’s how dementia tends to affect people over time:
- In its early days, there might be small lapses like forgetting conversations from yesterday or misplacing household items.
- As it gets worse, bigger challenges surfaces-someone could struggle with organising their budget or lose track of familiar places they’ve known for years.
- In advanced stages, everyday activities like bathing or dressing require constant assistance while recognising the faces of loved ones become impossible.
It’s key to remember that although older adults are most affected by dementia, it isn’t an inevitable part of getting old. Research suggests adjusting lifestyle habits may help reduce risks connected with this condition (Deckers et al., 2015).
Dementia describes situations where the human brain no longer operates as well as it used to because of lasting damage. Being aware of ways we might lower our chances
Other answers in the full document:
- 1.2 Describe key functions of the brain that are affected by dementia
- 1.3 Explain why depression, delirium and age-related memory impairment may be mistaken for dementia
- 2.1 Outline the medical model of dementia
- 2.2 Outline the social model of dementia
- 2.3 Explain why dementia should be viewed as a disability
- 3.1 List causes of dementia
- 3.2 Describe signs and symptoms of dementia
- 3.3 Identify causal risk factors for types of dementia
- 3.4 Identify prevalence rates for types of dementia
- 4.1 Describe how individuals may experience living with dementia
- 4.2 Outline the impact that the attitudes and behaviours of others may have on an individual with dementia