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What Is Dementia?
Dementia is not a single disease but a syndrome—a group of related symptoms—triggered by different conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. These types vary in terms of which areas of the brain are affected and how symptoms develop. What unites them is their impact on cognitive functions like memory, judgment, and reasoning. Over time, these issues interfere with an individual’s ability to live independently.
Several factors increase the risk of developing dementia. These include ageing, genetics, lifestyle choices such as smoking and inactivity, and medical conditions like diabetes, stroke, and high cholesterol. Though there is no cure for most forms of dementia, treatments and care strategies can improve quality of life and slow symptom progression.
What Are the Early Symptoms of Dementia?
Short-Term Memory Loss
One of the most common early symptoms is short-term memory loss, where individuals forget recent conversations, appointments, or where they placed items. This may be accompanied by difficulty finding the right words, trouble following conversations, or getting lost in familiar environments (Dementia Australia, 2025).
Cognitive Changes
Cognitive changes include problems with planning, decision-making, or completing familiar tasks. A person may find it challenging to manage finances, cook, or follow instructions. Visual-spatial difficulties, such as judging distances or navigating around the house, may also arise. In terms of orientation, individuals can become confused about time or place, even in familiar settings.
Behavioural and Mood Changes
Behavioural and mood changes often go hand-in-hand with cognitive decline. Some people may withdraw from social activities, lose interest in hobbies, or exhibit mood swings and emotional outbursts without an obvious cause. Repetitive behaviours, such as asking the same questions or performing the same tasks repeatedly, can also be early warning signs. These may be accompanied by changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or restlessness.
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms might not be prominent at first, but increasing disorganisation, misplacing personal items, and a decline in hygiene or grooming may become noticeable. If these symptoms are observed, it is essential to consult a medical expert.
What Happens in the Late Stages of Dementia?
As dementia advances to its final stages, individuals typically experience profound cognitive, emotional, and physical decline. Communication becomes extremely limited, with many losing the ability to speak coherently or at all. Memory impairments worsen to the point that even close family members and long-standing routines become unrecognisable.
Cognitive Deterioration
Cognitive deterioration includes a loss of awareness of surroundings and an inability to understand time, space, or relationships. Reasoning and decision-making abilities are greatly diminished or lost entirely. Individuals in this stage may appear disconnected from reality and require constant supervision.
Physical Deterioration
Physically, late-stage dementia affects coordination, mobility, and self-care. Many individuals lose the ability to walk, sit unaided, or hold their heads up. Swallowing difficulties may arise, increasing the risk of choking or malnutrition. Bladder and bowel control is often lost, and incontinence becomes a regular issue. Due to weakened immunity and immobility, the risk of infections such as pneumonia increases.
Behavior Deterioration
Behaviourally, individuals may become increasingly agitated or confused, particularly during the late afternoon or evening—a phenomenon known as sundowning. Emotional responses can be unpredictable, and sleep cycles are often disturbed. Weight loss due to poor appetite or difficulty swallowing is common. At this point, caregivers must be prepared for intensive support and possible end-of-life care.
What Lifestyle Changes Happen After Diagnosis with Dementia?
A diagnosis of dementia requires adapting to new challenges and embracing supportive lifestyle changes to maintain quality of life and delay disease progression.
Physical Activity
Exercise improves physical strength, balance, and may slow cognitive decline. Even short walks can be beneficial.
Healthy Diet
A Mediterranean-style diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean protein may support brain health.
Social Connection
Maintaining relationships with friends and family helps reduce feelings of isolation and supports emotional well-being.
Mental Stimulation
Puzzles, reading, music, and crafts can help keep the brain active.
Memory Aids
Using calendars, notes, labels, and reminders can aid memory and increase independence.
Behavioural Management
Structured routines, clear communication, and calming environments can reduce frustration and agitation.
Daily Task Adjustments
Simplifying daily routines, using adaptive tools, and seeking help for complex tasks like cooking or transportation are often necessary.
Self-Care Focus
Maintaining grooming habits, favourite hobbies, and familiar routines helps preserve identity and dignity.
Regular Health Monitoring
Routine check-ups are vital to manage co-existing health conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dementia
1. Can dementia be reversed?
Most types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, cannot be reversed. However, early diagnosis and proper management can help slow progression and improve quality of life.
2. How is dementia diagnosed?
Dementia is diagnosed through cognitive tests, brain imaging, physical exams, and a review of medical history and symptoms. A healthcare professional may also conduct blood tests to rule out other causes.
3. What is the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?
Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability, while Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia and has specific diagnostic criteria and progression patterns.
4. Is dementia hereditary?
There are genetic factors associated with dementia, especially early-onset forms, but lifestyle and environmental factors also play a major role.
5. How can caregivers support someone with dementia?
Caregivers can provide support by maintaining a structured routine, simplifying communication, offering emotional support, and seeking professional assistance when needed.
Book an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals
Dementia is a complex and progressive condition that profoundly affects an individual’s memory, thinking, behaviour, and ability to carry out everyday tasks. Recognising the early signs such as memory loss, confusion, language difficulties, and personality changes can lead to earlier diagnosis and better long-term planning. As the condition advances, individuals require more assistance and care, both physically and emotionally.
Do not wait—book your appointment today and start your journey toward a better lifestyle. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. You may also book an appointment by downloading the MyHealth360 application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
