By : Geraldus Sigap
Forgetfulness is normal, especially as we age. However, if your elderly parent is frequently forgetting important things, struggling to communicate, or getting confused about time and place, these could be early signs of dementia. Early detection and proper management can help slow the progression of symptoms and maintain quality of life.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a syndrome marked by a decline in brain function, including memory, thinking ability, orientation, understanding, calculation, learning capacity, language, and judgment. The most common cause is Alzheimer’s disease, but it can also result from stroke, infections, or metabolic disorders.
Common Symptoms of Dementia
- Forgetting recent events
- Trouble finding the right words when speaking
- Difficulty recognizing close relatives
- Disorientation in time and place
- Mood and personality changes
- Struggling with daily activities
Who is at Risk?
The risk of dementia increases with:
- Age over 65
- Family history of dementia
- Hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol
- Smoking and physical inactivity
- Repeated head trauma
Diagnostic Steps: Why Early Detection Matters
Diagnosis involves a medical interview, physical exam, and cognitive testing. Additional tests like CT scans or MRIs can help assess structural brain changes. Early detection allows for timely intervention and long-term care planning.
Brain MRI is especially recommended for individuals over the age of 60 who begin to show early signs such as short-term memory loss, disorientation in time or place, or noticeable behavioral changes. MRI helps detect structural brain changes such as hippocampal volume shrinkage, an early indicator of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. CT scans are generally less sensitive to these early changes, making MRI the preferred initial imaging modality.
Can Dementia be Cured?
There is currently no cure for dementia, but treatments and therapies can help slow its progression and manage symptoms. These may include:
- Specific medications
- Occupational and physical therapy
- Cognitive therapy
- Counseling and family support
Although there is currently no cure for dementia, several non-pharmacological preventive strategies have proven effective in delaying its onset and progression. These strategies include regular physical exercise, maintaining social connections, staying intellectually active (such as reading, doing puzzles, or learning new things), and ensuring sufficient and quality sleep.
From a nutritional standpoint, the Mediterranean diet, rich in leafy greens, fruits, fish, whole grains, and olive oil, has been shown to benefit brain health. Supplements such as vitamin B12, folic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids are also believed to support cognitive function.
The Role of Family and Environment
Family support is crucial in helping dementia patients live more comfortably. A safe environment, consistent routines, and patient, empathetic communication make a big difference.
Don’t Hesitate to Seek Help
For early dementia evaluation, you can consult a neurologist experienced in cognitive function assessments. Additionally, an internal medicine specialist with a geriatrics subspecialty can provide a holistic approach, especially for elderly patients with comorbidities. If there are noticeable behavioral or mood changes, a psychiatrist can also be involved in the management.
If your parent or loved one begins showing signs of dementia, consult a neurologist or psychiatrist immediately. Early evaluation can help slow brain decline and improve quality of life. Don’t ignore changes in memory or behavior. Consult the Neurologist at RS Abdi Waluyo by calling 021-3144989 or schedule your appointment online through the following link: https://wa.link/rsabdiwaluyo
Early detection can make a significant difference in their future.
FAQ
- What’s the difference between normal forgetfulness and dementia?
Normal forgetfulness is usually temporary, like forgetting where you placed your keys but remembering later. Dementia involves frequent, severe memory loss, disorientation, and difficulty performing daily tasks.
- At what age does dementia typically appear?
Dementia commonly begins after age 65, but early-onset dementia can occur earlier, especially with a family history.
- Can dementia be prevented?
Not all types of dementia can be prevented, but a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and managing blood pressure and blood sugar, can lower the risk.
- Which doctor should I see if I suspect dementia?
A neurologist is the primary specialist for diagnosing and managing dementia. A psychiatrist may also be involved, especially if behavioral or mood changes are present.
- Can dementia be treated?
While it cannot be cured, medications and therapies can slow its progression and improve quality of life.
References :
- Emmady PD, Schoo C, Tadi P. Major Neurocognitive Disorder (Dementia) [Updated 2022 Nov 19]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557444/
- Hafiz, R., Alajlani, L., Ali, A., Algarni, G. A., Aljurfi, H., Alammar, O. A. M., Ashqan, M. Y., & Alkhashan, A. (2023). The Latest Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Dementia. Cureus, 15(12), e50522. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.50522
- Arvanitakis, Z., Shah, R. C., & Bennett, D. A. (2019). Diagnosis and Management of Dementia: Review. JAMA, 322(16), 1589–1599. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2019.4782
