Memory Disorders
Dementia is a condition characterised by a progressive decline of mental abilities accompanied by changes in personality and behaviour. There is commonly a loss of memory and skills that are needed to carry out everyday activities. It is a significant cause of illness within the UK population. An estimated 5% of those over the age of 65 have dementia, rising to 20% over the age of 80. (Source: The Alzheimer’s Society)
The term dementia includes diagnoses of :
Mild Cognitive Impairment
This is a term used to describe a decline in cognitive function greater than expected for an individual’s age and education level, but that does not interfere notably with day to day activities. Some people with mild cognitive impairment seem to remain stable or return to normal over time, but others can progress to develop dementia over a period of several years. Mild cognitive impairment can be regarded as being a risk factor for dementia
Alzheimer’s Diesease
Alzheimer’s disease is the commonest form of dementia there both over and under age 65. It usually causes problems with remembering things that have recently happened over after a short period of time. Low mood or depression can be a complicating factor early in the illness and can make the diagnosis more difficult.
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses over a period of years causing problems with memory for faces and events, and difficulty with things such as driving, language skills can also be affected with difficulty finding words and reduction in spontaneous conversation.
Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy body dementia has over the last two decades become increasingly recognised as one of the commonest causes of dementia other than Alzheimer’s disease. It can start with visual hallucinations, fluctuating attention and alertness as well as problems with remembering things in the short term. These may be problems formulating ideas as well as low mood. Some individuals may also develop features of tremor, stiffness and slow movement similar to that of Parkinson’s disease.
Vascular Dementia
This is the second most common cause of dementia. Vascular dementia can occur following a stroke, and can start fairly suddenly. It can progress over time worsening small steps of time. There is difficulty with memory and concentration which can vary throughout the day and often be worse at night. Low mood can also be associated with this form of dementia. However the pattern of loss of mental function and ability to carry out day to day activities can vary considerably from patient to patient.
Other Forms of Memory Loss
There are other less common causes of dementia, many of which are treatable. Not everyone with memory loss and problems concentrating has or go on to develop dementia. There are many psychological as well as physical causes of poor memory and concentration when correctly identified and can often be successfully treated.
Memory problems that aren't part of normal aging
- Forgetting things much more often than you used to
- Forgetting how to do things you've done many times before
- Trouble learning new things
- Repeating phrases or stories in the same conversation
- Trouble making choices or handling money
- Not being able to keep track of what happens each day
The symptoms of all types of dementia are similar and include the following.
- Memory loss
- Disorientation
- Poor concentration
- Failing intellect
- Personality changes
- Deteriotation of self care
- Mood swings