FAQs on Dementia
What is dementia?
Dementia is a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, behavior, and daily functioning. It is caused by brain damage from various conditions, most commonly Alzheimer’s disease.
Is dementia the same as Alzheimer’s disease?
No. Alzheimer’s disease is one type of dementia, but there are others like vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
Is dementia a normal part of ageing?
No. Ageing may bring mild forgetfulness, but dementia is a disease-related decline in cognitive abilities.
What are the main types of dementia?
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Mixed dementia
What are early warning signs of dementia?
- Memory loss affecting daily life
- Difficulty finding words or following conversations
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Struggling with problem-solving or planning
- Changes in mood or personality
What symptoms of dementia appear in later stages?
- Severe memory loss
- Inability to recognize loved ones
- Loss of speech and mobility
- Dependence on others for all daily activities
What causes dementia?
It is caused by brain cell damage due to diseases, strokes, injuries, or genetic and environmental factors.
What increases the risk of dementia?
- Age over 65
- Family history
- Smoking, alcohol misuse
- High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol
- Lack of physical or mental activity
Can young people get dementia?
Yes. Early-onset dementia can occur before age 65, though it is less common.
How is dementia diagnosed?
Doctors use medical history, physical exams, memory and cognitive tests, brain scans (CT/MRI), and blood tests to rule out other causes.
Can dementia be mistaken for something else?
Yes. Depression, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, and medication side effects can mimic dementia symptoms.
Is there a cure for dementia?
No cure exists, but treatments can slow progression and manage symptoms.
What treatments are available?
- Medications (cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine)
- Cognitive therapy and rehabilitation
- Supportive care and counselling
- Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, social engagement)
Can lifestyle changes help?
Yes. Exercise, healthy diet, mental stimulation, and social interaction may slow decline and improve quality of life.
How does dementia affect daily life?
It affects independence, communication, relationships, and self-care. Support is needed as the disease progresses.
How can caregivers support someone with dementia?
- Provide routine and structure
- Communicate clearly and calmly
- Encourage safe activities
- Offer emotional reassurance
- Seek professional and peer support
How can the home be made safer for dementia patients?
- Remove tripping hazards
- Label rooms and objects
- Install good lighting
- Use safety locks where needed
- Simplify the environment
Can people with dementia live alone?
In early stages, some may manage with support. As dementia progresses, living alone can become unsafe.
Can dementia be prevented?
Not entirely, but risks can be lowered by staying physically active, eating a brain-healthy diet, avoiding smoking and excess alcohol, and keeping socially and mentally engaged.
Does keeping the brain active help?
Yes. Activities like reading, puzzles, learning new skills, and social interaction can strengthen cognitive reserve.
Is memory loss always dementia?
No. Stress, depression, medication side effects, or normal ageing can also cause forgetfulness.
Can dementia be contagious?
No. Dementia cannot spread from person to person.
How long do people live after diagnosis?
Most live 4–8 years, though some survive up to 20 years depending on type, health, and care.
What is end-stage dementia like?
People lose the ability to speak, walk, eat, and recognize loved ones. Care focuses on comfort and dignity.
FAQs on Geriatric Mental Health
What is geriatric mental health?
It is the study and care of emotional, psychological, and social well-being in older adults.
Why is mental health important for the elderly?
Because it affects memory, independence, relationships, and overall quality of life.
What are the most common mental health problems in older adults?
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Dementia
- Sleep problems
- Delirium
Is depression normal in old age?
No. Sadness is not a natural part of ageing. Depression is an illness and can be treated.
How is dementia different from depression?
Dementia: problems with memory, thinking, and daily life.
Depression: persistent sadness, loss of interest, sleep and appetite changes.
What is delirium?
A sudden state of confusion, often caused by infections, medicines, or illness. Unlike dementia, it appears quickly and can often be treated.
What increases the risk of mental health problems in old age?
- Chronic illnesses
- Loneliness or isolation
- Loss of loved ones
- Financial stress
- Poor physical health
Can physical health affect mental health in the elderly?
Yes. Conditions like diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and chronic pain often lead to depression or anxiety.
How can mental health problems be identified in older adults?
- Changes in mood
- Withdrawal from others
- Memory issues
- Sleep and appetite changes
- Confusion
How are mental health issues treated in older adults?
- Counselling and psychotherapy
- Medications (when needed)
- Lifestyle changes
- Social support and activities
Are psychiatric medicines safe for older adults?
Yes, if prescribed carefully and monitored. Doctors usually start with lower doses.
Can talking therapies help elderly people?
Yes. Counselling, group therapy, and reminiscence therapy are very effective.
How can families support elderly mental health?
- Spend quality time with them
- Encourage hobbies and social contact
- Help with medical care
- Provide reassurance and patience
How can older adults stay mentally healthy?
- Stay physically active
- Eat a balanced diet
- Keep the mind active (reading, puzzles, learning)
- Stay socially connected
- Manage health conditions regularly
Can loneliness affect mental health?
Yes. Loneliness is linked to depression, anxiety, and even dementia.
Can exercise help mental health in old age?
Yes. Regular walking, yoga, or light exercise improves mood, sleep, and brain health.
Is mental illness in old age untreatable?
No. With proper treatment, many elderly people recover and live fulfilling lives.
Should mental health problems be hidden due to stigma?
No. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.