What Is Dementia? Understanding the Condition

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines dementia as a term used to describe a range of symptoms linked to a decline in cognitive function. It affects memory, thinking, communication, and the ability to carry out daily tasks.

Rather than being a single disease, dementia refers to a collection of conditions that progressively damage the brain. It worsens over time and, while it primarily affects older adults, not everyone will experience it as they age.

Dementia in the UK

Dementia is a pressing health issue in the UK, affecting over 850,000 people, and this number continues to grow as the population ages. Statistics from the Office for National Statistics indicate It is the leading cause of death for women and the second for men in the UK, accounting for 16.5% of all female deaths in 2018.

Dementia not only affects individuals but also places an immense emotional and financial strain on carers, families, and the healthcare system.

Dementia and Alzheimer disease has become the leading cause of death for femalesDeaths registered in the UK by leading causes of death, females, all ages, 2001 to 2018
Deaths registered in the UK by leading causes of death, females, all ages, 2001 to 2018

What Causes Dementia?

Dementia results from diseases that damage and destroy nerve cells in the brain, causing cognitive decline beyond what is expected from normal ageing. While it does not affect consciousness, it is often accompanied—or even preceded—by changes in mood, emotional control, behaviour, or motivation.

Early Signs and Symptoms

Recognising the early signs of dementia can help ensure timely diagnosis and intervention. Some of the most common early symptoms include:

  • Memory problems: Difficulty recalling recent events, forgetting names, or repeating the same questions.
  • Misplacing items: Losing everyday objects and struggling to retrace steps to find them.
  • Getting lost: Confusion or disorientation, even in familiar surroundings, while walking or driving.
  • Time confusion: Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time.
  • Problem-solving difficulties: Challenges in planning, organising, or solving simple problems like managing bills or following recipes.
  • Language struggles: Trouble following conversations, finding the right words, or understanding instructions.
  • Difficulty with familiar tasks: Struggling with activities once done effortlessly, such as cooking or using household appliances.
  • Visual-spatial issues: Misjudging distances or difficulties interpreting visual information, like reading or recognising faces.

Mood and Behaviour Changes

Changes in mood and behaviour can be early indicators of dementia, often appearing before memory issues. These changes include:

  • Emotional distress: Feelings of anxiety, sadness, or anger about memory lapses or cognitive difficulties.
  • Personality shifts: Becoming uncharacteristically withdrawn, suspicious, or irritable.
  • Inappropriate behaviour: Acting impulsively or in ways that are socially out of character.
  • Loss of interest: Reduced enthusiasm for hobbies, work, or social activities, sometimes accompanied by a lack of concern for others’ emotions.

These mood and behaviour changes can be subtle at first but may become more pronounced as the condition progresses. Carers and family members often notice these shifts before the individuals themselves become aware.

Progression of Dementia

Dementia progresses differently for everyone, depending on the underlying causes, overall health, and the individual’s cognitive abilities before the condition develops. However, as the disease advances, the following changes are often observed:

Increasing dependency: A growing need for assistance with personal care, such as dressing, bathing, and eating.

Cognitive decline: Worsening memory problems, difficulty recognising loved ones, and struggles with basic communication.

Physical challenges: Loss of mobility, difficulties with balance, and trouble performing tasks like eating or drinking.

Loss of control: Incontinence and challenges managing bladder or bowel functions.

  • Behavioural changes: Episodes of aggression, restlessness, or agitation, which can be distressing for both the individual and their carers.

In later stages, people with dementia may lose their ability to communicate verbally, rely entirely on others for care, and become bedridden. These challenges emphasise the importance of comprehensive support for individuals and their carers, including access to specialised healthcare services and respite care.

Impact of Dementia

Dementia affects not just individuals but their carers, families, and society as a whole, with wide-reaching physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences. Unfortunately, a lack of awareness and understanding can lead to stigma, delays in diagnosis, and barriers to care.

How can Homecare Gurus help?

At Homecare Gurus, we understand the unique challenges that dementia presents and our compassionate carers are here to provide bespoke dementia care.

If you or someone you know is affected by dementia, we are here to help. Contact Homecare Gurus for more information about our dementia care services and how we can support you.

Phone: +44 1494 211729
Email: solutions@homecaregurus.co.uk