What is Dementia?

Dementia is a progressive disorder of the brain where the brain cells die. There are various types of dementia and it is not always possible to identify which particular type of dementia a person has, so the word is used to encompass all types. Alzheimer's disease is the most common of the dementias accounting for about 50 to 60% of all cases.

The significant feature of dementia is memory loss. This memory loss is gradual and progressive. Associated with memory loss are one or more of the following problems:

• Language difficulties
• Disorientation
• Visuo-spatial difficulties
• Inappropriate behaviour
• Naming difficulties
• Personality change

Types of Dementia

• Alzheimers Disease
• Vascular Dementia
• Frontotemporal
• Lewy Bodies
• Parkinsonism
• Picks Disease
• Alcohol Related
• Infection related
• Huntingtons Disease.