What is Dementia?
Dementia is a progressive neurocognitive disorder ( nerve cells/neurons die or deteriorate over time) generally categorized by memory impairment and higher-level cognitive skill dysfunction that affect the performance of activities of daily living. Higher-level cognitive skills are described as functional areas of the brain, including attention, learning, motor skills, organizational and social cognition. Although dementia onset more commonly occurs in people aged 65 and over, it can also affect individuals under the age of 65 (Early/Younger-Onset Dementia).
In terms of prevalence, some estimates report that dementia affects an estimated 47 million people worldwide, and this number is projected to triple by 2050. This increase is due in part to the aging of the global population, as age is still considered the most significant risk factor for developing dementia.
Important note: When people hear the term "dementia" most immediately think memory loss. Although common, not all people with dementia suffer from memory loss.
Research
In the past several decades, a focus on a pharmacological cure for the various types of dementia has predominated dementia research over the years. Pharmaceutical companies and researchers continue to look for solutions that can prevent, delay or cure the various forms of dementia, with disappointing results. Evidence supporting drug efficacy is weak and the outcomes in clinical trials are mixed. Side effects from these drugs in clinical trials include brain bleeds and brain swelling and the potential benefits are modest, showing marginal benefits in only the very early stages of dementia.
Research suggests that early detection and intervention can delay the onset and progression of dementia and improve the quality of life for people with dementia and their caregivers. Public health efforts are encouraged to focus on increasing awareness about dementia and its risk factors, promoting early detection, intervention, and providing support for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
The Umbrella
A common metaphor for defining and explaining dementia is that of an open umbrella, where the various symptoms and causes of cognitive impairment disorders (dementias) affecting memory and other cognitive and social functions are found directly below. But under this umbrella are also some terms that are not all negatively associated with dementia. "Love", the importance of "friendship", having a "care partner" and "hope" are critical factors in helping to support people and their families living and working with dementia.
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