About Dementia
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Dementia is not one specific disease. It is a general term for a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and everyday abilities. These changes are strong enough to interfere with daily life and independence.
Key facts
- Dementia is caused by damage to brain cells, which interferes with their ability to communicate with each other.
- Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, but there are many other types.
- While there is no cure yet, support and treatments can help many people live well for years after a diagnosis.
Yes. Dementia is very common—especially in people over 65 years of age. The number of people living with dementia continues to grow as populations around the world live longer.
Dementia mainly affects older adults, but it is not a normal part of ageing. It can also affect younger people in rare cases—this is called young-onset dementia.
Symptoms
- Sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, or weakness on one side of the face or body—these can be signs of a stroke. Call your local emergency number immediately.
- A head injury followed by confusion, vomiting, or drowsiness.
- Sudden inability to move or walk, or losing consciousness.
- ⚠A sudden, upsetting change in behaviour or confusion that develops over hours or days—this could be a sign of an infection or other urgent medical problem.
- ⚠Signs of delirium, such as seeing or hearing things that are not there, or severe agitation.
Common symptoms
- Forgetting recent events, names, or appointments
- Difficulty finding the right words or following a conversation
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Trouble completing familiar tasks, such as cooking or using a phone
- Mood changes, such as becoming anxious, irritable, or withdrawn
- Confusion about time or place
Symptoms in children
- Dementia is very rare in children. When it does happen, it is usually caused by a genetic (inherited) condition.
- Symptoms may include a loss of previously learned skills, such as speech, walking, or problem-solving.
- Children may also show changes in behaviour, attention, or memory.
Symptoms in older adults
- Older adults may show a slower, more gradual decline in memory and thinking.
- They may withdraw from social activities or struggle to manage money, medication, or household tasks.
- Falls, infections, or changes in routine can temporarily make confusion worse in older adults.
Causes
Main causes
- Alzheimer's disease—abnormal proteins build up in the brain, damaging nerve cells.
- Vascular dementia—reduced blood flow to the brain, often after strokes or small vessel disease.
- Lewy body dementia—abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies) affect thinking, movement, and alertness.
- Frontotemporal dementia—damage to the front and side parts of the brain affects behaviour, personality, and language.
Risk factors
- Getting older—this is the biggest single risk factor.
- High blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol—conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels.
- Smoking and drinking too much alcohol.
- A history of significant head injury.
- Family history of dementia, especially in close relatives.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you or someone you know has sudden confusion, weakness, or difficulty speaking—call emergency services right away. It could be a stroke.
- If confusion gets much worse over hours or days, seek medical help the same day.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If memory or thinking problems are affecting daily life, start by making an appointment with your family doctor or general practice.
- If the person with symptoms is becoming upset about being taken to a doctor, mention your concerns to a healthcare professional for advice.
Diagnosis
There is no single test for dementia. A doctor will take a detailed history, check physical and mental health, and test thinking and memory. They will also look for treatable causes of similar symptoms, such as thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, or depression.
Tests that may be done
- Blood tests and urine tests to rule out other causes.
- Memory and thinking assessments, such as answering questions and doing simple tasks.
- Brain scans (such as CT or MRI) to look for changes in the brain.
- Review of your symptoms and how they affect everyday life, often with input from a close family member or friend.
What to expect at your appointment
The assessment process may take some time—often several appointments. You will not be left without support. If a diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor will explain what it means and introduce you to specialist services, support, and next steps.
Treatment
There is no cure for most types of dementia yet. However, there is a lot that can be done to help. Treatments aim to manage symptoms, support quality of life, and help people stay independent for as long as possible. The right plan depends on the type of dementia, the person's situation, and their goals.
Self-care at home
- Keep a daily routine for meals, sleep, and activities.
- Use memory aids like calendars, notes, and labelled drawers.
- Stay socially connected with family, friends, and community groups.
- Make the home safe—remove trip hazards, install good lighting, and keep important items in a visible place.
- Plan for support early, including future care preferences.
Medical treatments
Doctors may offer certain medications that can help with memory, thinking, or mood in some types of dementia. These are prescribed by specialists, and the benefits and risks are always discussed in advance. Alongside this, non-drug approaches such as cognitive stimulation therapy, occupational therapy, and talking therapies can play a key role. Always speak with your doctor about what is right for the individual.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is not a treatment for dementia itself. It may occasionally be needed for related problems, such as fixing a fracture after a fall. Any surgery for someone with dementia is carefully planned with a specialist team.
Living with this condition
A diagnosis of dementia changes life, but life continues. Building a predictable routine, simplifying tasks, and focusing on what the person can still enjoy makes a real difference. Support from family, carers, and local services helps people live well at home for as long as possible.
Lifestyle tips
- Stay physically active—gentle walking, gardening, or chair exercises are good options.
- Keep your mind engaged with hobbies, music, puzzles, or reading.
- Maintain social contact—this protects mood and sense of identity.
- Plan activities that match current abilities and bring pleasure.
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, fish, and healthy fats supports brain and heart health. Regular physical activity—even light exercise—improves mood, sleep, and circulation. Staying well-hydrated is important too.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Dementia can bring feelings of fear, grief, frustration, or low mood—for both the person with dementia and their family. These feelings are normal and deserve attention. Talking to a counsellor, joining a support group, or reaching out to a doctor can all help. If you live with dementia and have thoughts of harming yourself, tell someone you trust or speak to a healthcare professional right away.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, but a brain-healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk or delay its onset. What is good for your heart is also good for your brain.
Vaccines
Staying up to date with vaccinations, such as the flu vaccine, is important for older adults. Being ill can sometimes cause temporary confusion, and preventing infections is one more way to protect your brain.
Screening programmes
There is no routine screening test for dementia in people without symptoms. Discussing any memory concerns with a doctor early is the best step.
Complications
If left untreated
- Greater risk of accidents and falls.
- Difficulty managing medications, money, or meals—leading to health and safety problems.
- Infections, such as pneumonia, especially in the later stages.
- Caregiver stress and burnout when supports are not in place.
Long-term outlook
While dementia is a serious condition that gets worse over time, it is possible to live well for many years after a diagnosis. With the right support, treatments, and planning, many people continue to enjoy meaningful relationships and activities. Each person's journey is different, and a compassionate care team can help you navigate it.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- Alzheimer's Society (UK) ↗ · United Kingdom
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: August 2, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Guidance may differ by country or region. Confirm local recommendations with a qualified healthcare provider.