Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Memory loss is an example. Alzheimer's is the most common type of dementia.
While symptoms of dementia can vary greatly, at least two of the following core mental functions must be significantly impaired to be considered dementia:
• Memory
• Communication and language
• Ability to focus and pay attention
• Reasoning and judgment
• Visual perception
Assessments can include
- Conversations with the person being diagnosed and those close to them
- A physical examination
- Memory tests
- Brain scans: CT and MRI
- The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) is the most commonly used test for complaints of memory problems or when a diagnosis of dementia is being considered.
- Laboratory test: Simple blood tests can rule out physical problems that can affect brain function, such as vitamin B-12 deficiency or an underactive thyroid gland.
Treatment of dementia symptoms may help slow or minimize the development of symptoms.
- Cholinesterase inhibitors
- Memantine.
- Other medications: to treat condition or symptoms such as a sleep disorder.
- Occupational therapy:
Aadil hospital doctor may suggest occupational therapy to help you adjust to living with dementia. Therapists may teach you coping behaviors and ways to adapt movements and daily living activities as your condition changes.
Consult at Aadil Hospital for medical treatment
