Definition:

A medical condition that interferes with the way the brain works, interfering with the ability to think, speak, reason, remember and move. Many types of dementia exist. Some are progressive and permanent. Others can be treated and reversed. Alzheimer's Disease is the most common cause of dementia.

Symptoms vary but may include:

• Changes in memory
• Changes in personality
• Changes in behavior
• Difficulty carrying out normal daily activities

It is important to find out the cause of a person's dementia. Some causes of dementia can be treated and reversed and others are due to irreversible changes in the brain.

Treatments Available:

• Neurology
• Neuropsychology
• Information & Referral - Senior Services
• Rehabilitation

For more information:

• Alzheimer's Association
• The Alzheimer's Information Site
• The Brain Matters, American Academy of Neurology Foundation
• Caregiver's Guide to understanding dementia behaviors
• Caring for adults with cognitive and memory impairments
• Dementia, caregiving and controlling frustration
• Help and Hope for Persons Diagnosed With Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders [653k]
• Family Caregiver Alliance
• Is this dementia and what does it mean?
• National Women's Health Information Center

Healthwise Links

• Alzheimer's Disease
• Should I take medications to treat Alzheimer's disease?
• Should I put my relative with Alzheimer's or other dementia in a nursing home?