Overview

Dementia is a progressive neurological condition characterised by a decline in memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday activities. It is not a single disease but a group of conditions caused by damage to brain cells. Understanding the dementia disease definition is important, as early identification allows timely intervention and better care planning.

Dementia commonly affects older adults, but it is not a normal part of ageing. The condition gradually interferes with communication, judgment, problem-solving, and independence. Early diagnosis and structured treatment can help slow progression and improve quality of life.

Patients receive comprehensive dementia treatment at Sarvodaya, the best neurology hospital in Delhi NCR, supported by experienced neurologists and multidisciplinary care teams.

Symptoms of Dementia

• Memory loss affecting daily activities
• Difficulty planning, reasoning, or problem-solving
• Confusion with time, place, or familiar surroundings
• Trouble communicating or finding words
• Changes in mood, behaviour, or personality
• Reduced judgment and decision-making ability
• Difficulty performing routine tasks
• Social withdrawal or loss of interest in activities

Causes of Dementia

• Alzheimer’s disease (the most common cause)
• Vascular disease affecting blood flow to the brain
• Lewy body disease
• Frontotemporal degeneration
• Brain injuries or repeated head trauma
• Infections or metabolic disorders
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Long-term alcohol misuse

Diagnosis of Dementia

Accurate diagnosis of dementia is essential to identify the reason for dementia, determine disease stage, guide appropriate dementia treatment, and plan long-term care under expert supervision from the best neurologist in Delhi NCR.

• Clinical Evaluation: Clinical evaluation assesses memory, thinking ability, behaviour, language skills, and daily functioning through structured neurological and cognitive assessments.

• Medical History Review: Medical history review includes symptom progression, lifestyle factors, medication use, and family history to support an accurate dementia diagnosis.

• Cognitive & Neuropsychological Tests: Standardised tests evaluate memory, attention, reasoning, language, and orientation to identify cognitive impairment patterns.

• Brain Imaging (MRI/CT Scan): Imaging helps detect brain shrinkage, strokes, tumours, or structural abnormalities that contribute to dementia symptoms.

• Laboratory Tests: Blood tests help rule out vitamin deficiencies, infections, thyroid disorders, or metabolic conditions that can mimic dementia.

Treatment Options for Dementia

Although dementia has no permanent cure, treatment focuses on managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and enhancing quality of life through medications, cognitive therapies, lifestyle modifications, and continuous medical support tailored to the patient’s individual needs.

• Medications: Medicines help manage memory loss, confusion, and behavioural symptoms in early and moderate stages of dementia.

• Medication Optimisation: Regular review of medications ensures maximum benefit, minimises side effects, and adapts treatment as the disease progresses.

• Cognitive Therapy & Rehabilitation: Structured cognitive therapy helps maintain mental function and daily activity skills for as long as possible.

• Behavioural & Psychological Management: Targeted approaches manage agitation, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood changes associated with dementia.

• Supportive & Multidisciplinary Care: Integrated care involving neurologists, psychologists, therapists, and caregivers supports long-term dementia management.

Prevention & Lifestyle Modifications for Dementia

• Regular Physical Activity: Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain, supports cognitive function, and may help slow memory decline associated with dementia.

• Mental Stimulation and Cognitive Engagement: Activities like reading, puzzles, and learning new skills help keep the brain active and support cognitive reserve.

• Healthy, Balanced Diet: A nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats supports brain health and overall well-being.

• Adequate Sleep and Stress Management: Quality sleep and effective stress control help maintain memory, concentration, and emotional balance.

• Control of Blood Pressure, Diabetes, and Cholesterol: Managing chronic conditions reduces vascular damage and lowers the risk of dementia progression.
  
  

Pre–Post Treatment Lifestyle Modifications for Dementia

• Early neurological consultation for memory or behavioural changes
• Baseline cognitive assessment and brain imaging
• Medication and lifestyle review
• Patient and caregiver education

• Strict adherence to prescribed medications
• Regular cognitive and physical therapy sessions
• Safe home environment modifications
• Routine monitoring of disease progression
• Ongoing caregiver support and counselling