2.1 What is dementia?

2.1 WHAT IS DEMENTIA ?

Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, and reasoning — to such an extent that it interferes with a person's daily life and activities. Some people with dementia cannot control their emotions, and their personalities may change. It is a brutal condition that has been affecting people for over a hundred years.

Dementia is not a single disorder, but it is an umbrella term used to describe over 100 different conditions that impair memory, behavior and thinking and cognitive strength of the person.

— Worldwide, at least 50 million people are believed to be living with Alzheimer's disease or other dementias.

— According to Dementia in India 2020 report, has estimated 5.3 million Indians aged >60 years had dementia in 2020, and this number is projected to exceed 14 million by 2050.

Disorders grouped under the general term “dementia” are caused by abnormal brain changes. These changes trigger a decline in thinking skills, also known as cognitive abilities, severe enough to impair daily life and independent function. They also affect behavior, feelings and relationships.

Fig 2.1.2 Dementia patients Source hopehospice.com/blog/boredom-and-dementia-patients/

NORMAL AGEING DEMENTIA

Fig 2.1.3 Normal Ageing Vs Dementia

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