Dementia is an umbrella term for all progressive neuro-degenerative conditions which affect the brain and are severe enough to interfere with a person’s daily activities and normal functioning. It generally affects elderly population above the age of 60, but is not a normal process of ageing. Unfortunately there is no cure for Alzheimer's and dementia, but certain conditions are reversible.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause for dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. It is important to note that dementia can have multiple causes and may be due to a combination of factors including repeated head injuries or severe traumatic brain injuries that can lead to dementia later in life.
There is no one test to determine if someone has dementia. Doctors diagnose Alzheimer's and other types of dementia based on a careful medical history, brain scans, laboratory tests, and the characteristic changes in thinking, day-to-day function and behavior associated with each type.
Visiting a primary care doctor is often the first step for people who are experiencing changes in thinking, movement, or behavior. However, neurologists — doctors who specialize in disorders of the brain and nervous system — often make the assessment to diagnose dementia. Geriatric psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, and geriatricians may also be able to diagnose dementia through appropriate assessment.
DemClinic is an online portal to video consult with a select panel of Dementia specialists to check for Dementia and other memory problems.
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia is life-altering for both the person living with the disease and his / her family. As a primary care provider, you play an important part in providing support to the person who has been diagnosed. Along the way, you will need the support of others, too - mainly family and friends.
But on the long term, professional help too will become necessary. Different kind of services are available in India for persons with Dementia, ranging from Day Care to home-based care to full-time residential care.
On the DIA Directory, we have curated a list of certified care providers for the convenience of persons with Dementia and their families.