Dementia – Definition and Classification

Opening Scenario

An elderly person having difficulty remembering names, forgetting recent events, getting confused about familiar places, and having difficulty performing daily activities.

Definition

“Dementia is a syndrome characterized by progressive decline in memory and other cognitive functions, severe enough to interfere with daily life and independence.” “Dementia is not a normal part of ageing. It results from diseases or disorders affecting the brain.”

Major Features

1. 11. Memory impairmentDifficulty recalling recent events and names.
2. 22. Impaired thinking and reasoningTrouble with problem solving and judgment.
3. 33. Difficulty in daily activitiesChallenges with routine and familiar tasks.
4. 44. Changes in behaviour and personalityAlterations in mood and social conduct.
5. 55. Progressive deteriorationGradual worsening over time affecting independence.

Introduction to Classification

“Now let us understand the classification of dementia.”

Classification of Dementia Flowchart

1. 11. Degenerative dementiaIncludes Alzheimer’s disease, Frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia.
2. 22. Vascular dementiaCaused by cerebrovascular disease or reduced blood flow to the brain.
3. 33. Dementia due to other causesIncludes Parkinson’s disease dementia, Huntington’s disease, Traumatic brain injury, HIV-associated dementia, and other medical conditions.

Types of Dementia and Identifying Points

1. 1Alzheimer’s disease“Most common cause of dementia; progressive memory and cognitive decline.”
2. 2Vascular dementia“Occurs due to damage to the brain caused by cerebrovascular disease; symptoms may occur after strokes.”
3. 3Lewy body dementia“Characterized by cognitive fluctuations, visual hallucinations and parkinsonian features.”
4. 4Frontotemporal dementia“Usually affects behaviour, personality or language, often at a younger age.”
5. 5Parkinson’s disease dementia“Cognitive decline occurring in a person with established Parkinson’s disease.”

⭐ EXAM POINT

Dementia = Progressive decline in cognitive function affecting daily life. Remember the major types: ALZHEIMER – VASCULAR – LEWY BODY – FRONTOTEMPORAL

Quick Recall

1. 1Question 1What is dementia?
2. 2Question 2Is dementia a normal part of ageing?
3. 3Question 3Name the major types of dementia.

Conclusion

“Remember: Understand the classification → remember the examples → score marks!”