One of the most common terms used to describe memory loss in older adults is dementia. In my work, I often hear families say that the senior they are hoping to place “has dementia.” When I ask what underlying medical issue has caused the dementia, they often look surprised and respond, “I thought dementia was the disease.”
To clarify, and this is not intended as medical advice, dementia is NOT a disease. It is a collection of symptoms that impair a person’s intellectual functioning. These symptoms can include memory loss, mood changes, delusions, or changes in gait, among others.
Understanding that dementia itself is not a disease is important, because it can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Consulting a doctor and identifying the cause of your senior’s dementia is the first step in creating a safe, supportive care environment. In some cases, if the underlying condition is treated, dementia may even be reversible.
Dementia can be caused by a wide range of medical issues, from Alzheimer’s disease to brain tumors to nutritional deficiencies. Seek guidance from a medical professional to determine why these symptoms are occurring and how they can be properly addressed. The health and safety of your loved one depend on expert medical evaluation and recommendations for managing dementia-related symptoms.
