Dementia is the name for a group of symptoms caused by disorders that affect the brain and is not a specific disease. Dementia is progressive, which means that symptoms will gradually get worse over time. The speed at which this happens usually depends on the person and the type of dementia they have. There are many different types of dementia and they are often called by the same name as the condition that caused the dementia in the first place.

Symptoms

You or your carer/loved ones may notice:

• Loss of memory: It is usually your short-term memory that is affected.
• Mood changes: You may feel withdrawn, sad, frightened, or angry about what is happening to you.
• Communication problems: It may be hard to find the right words for things, and you may find yourself having to describe what an item does instead of being able to name it.
• Daily living skills: People living with dementia sometimes find it difficult to maintain their daily routine and activities independently. 

Tools & Resources for Dementia Patients

• Alzheimer’s and dementia basics
• Basics of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
• Video: How Alzheimer’s Changes the Brain
• The 10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s
• How is Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosed?
• Dementia Research and Clinical Trials
• Support Groups (Alzheimer’s Association)
• Finding a Caregiver
• WV Health Care Facilities and Communities