What is Dementia?
Hi everyone — I work with Dementia Society of America®, a nonprofit focused on Dementia awareness, enrichment programs and funding Dementia-related research. This month is Dementia Awareness Month so I wanted to share some commonly asked questions we receive!
What is Dementia? The simple answer is it's an umbrella term, like "cancer." Cancer is found in different forms, such as breast cancer, leukemia, testicular cancer, melanoma, etc. It's no different with Dementia, there are many forms and types. In addition, Dementias are considered severe forms of cognitive impairment that affect at least two functions of the brain. Examples include memory, decision-making, behavior, motor skills, etc. Memory loss alone does not mean Dementia.
What is the difference between Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease? Alzheimer's Disease (often shortened to just "AD"), is simply one very common form of Dementia. There are many types of Dementia besides Alzheimer's. Moreover, not all Dementias are diseases or conditions related to Alzheimer's.
Can an Alzheimer's diagnosis be confirmed 100% while someone is alive? Well, the most recent answer used to be "no." But that is changing rapidly. Today, still, only a post-mortem autopsy of the brain tissue can reveal with complete 100% certainty the types of pathology that Dr. Alois Alzheimer discovered over 100 years ago. Yet, within just the past few years, new brain imaging and bodily fluids (blood or cerebrospinal fluid) tests are giving medical professionals more than 90% certainty before death. The science of brain imaging, DNA testing, and other state-of-the-art methods is improving the ability to detect certain telltale signs of all causes of Dementia. But still, not everyone has easy access to the testing advancements available. The best thing to do is not to assume or rubber-stamp a diagnosis. Instead, the Dementia Society of America strongly urges anyone thought to have a cognitive impairment to get the best possible diagnostic workup by a board-certified geriatric or cognitive neurologist and his or her team.
What questions do you wish more people understood about Dementia, either from personal experience, caregiving, or supporting a loved one?
Stay strong! You are not alone in this journey<3
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The Answers above are from www.dementiasociety.org
Important Notice: Dementia Society of America (DSA) does not provide medical advice. The contents are for informational purposes only and are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.