Dementia

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What is Dementia?

Dementia is a disease of the brain that can impact how we think, feel, and speak.  People living with dementia can have:

  • a hard time remembering things
  • trouble understanding information
  • a reduced attention span
  • mood and personality changes

How Common is Dementia?

  • As many as 7% of adults aged 60 and older suffer from dementia.  
  • About half of people who reach age 85 have some form of dementia.

Sometimes, older adults can have these problems because of other issues such as depression, untreated hearing loss, or other health problems.

Talk with your healthcare professional, if you are concerned about your memory. They can help you find out why you are having these problems.

If you do have dementia, the sooner you know, the better you and your loved ones can manage this brain disease and get needed services. Knowing your diagnosis early can also help you decide what type of health care you want in the future.

Dementia affects everyone who loves or cares for a person with the disease. If you are a caregiver, you may be anxious or sleep deprived. Or you may have depression or physical difficulties because you help your loved one with dementia. You may need help and rest from your responsibilities.

 

Last Updated February 2023

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