About Dementia

• They cause a decline in one’s ability to function
• They cause cells in the brain to die, shrinking the size of the brain over time

There are four types of dementia, each with distinct triggers and symptoms.

Alzheimer’s: The most prevalent type, Alzheimer’s accounts for 60 percent of newly diagnosed dementias today. Difficulty with short-term memory, procedures, and naming are typical symptoms.

Vascular: Vascular dementia occurs when blood vessels above the neck that carry oxygen to the brain are blocked, causing brain tissue to die. Difficulty concentrating, finding words, or completing complex tasks are initial red flags.

Symptoms

Progressive brain cell death due to Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Other causes include:

Causes

People with dementia typically exhibit two early warning signs: difficulty with short-term memory and difficulty with naming. These symptoms are red flags signaling the beginning stages of dementia.

• Stroke
• Brain tumor
• Traumatic head injury