The Effects of Dementia

Dementia is a category of symptoms that can be caused by various problems and diseases that affect the function of the brain. In general, dementia describes symptoms that impair the intellect, which can have wide-ranging effects on an individual and the people around him.

Social Interaction

• Dementia often has a profound impact on social interactions. Someone with dementia may lose the ability to think critically about what they say or do in social situations, which may cause them to say things that are uncharacteristic for their personality, or things that offend people. A person with dementia may lose the ability to fully consider the effects of their actions or words, which can result in destructive behavior or language.

Short-Term Memory Loss

• People with dementia may have a shortened attention span and be easily distracted, which can make it difficult to carry on a long and thoughtful conversation. In more advanced cases, the person with dementia may have short memory span, to the point where they will forget things that they were told a minute or two before. This requires extreme patience on the part of those taking care of the person with dementia, as that person will likely ask the same questions over and over again.

Loss of Self-Sufficiency

• Another common effect of dementia is the loss of the ability to take care of yourself. Dementia can result in forgetfulness and a lack of foresight, which can make it difficult to perform routine tasks like making food, or even planning a trip to the bathroom. In milder cases, dementia may interfere with the ability to drive or make sound financial decisions. This can be especially problematic, because it makes those with dementia susceptible to scams.

Depression

• Dementia can lead to a change in disposition, and potentially depression. People who have dementia will often be aware that they cannot think as well as they used to, and may observe that other people treat them differently as a result of their condition. This can cause irritability and decreased desire to interact in social situations. The loss of the ability to take part in or enjoy hobbies and other activities can also contribute to feelings of depression.

Mental Degradation

• Perhaps the most troubling aspect of dementia is that once you begin to experience dementia at some level, you face an increased likelihood of further intellectual impairment in the future. For example, Alzheimer's disease is a common cause of dementia among elderly people, which is characterized by a gradual loss of intellectual ability which can ultimately result in complete dependence upon others. According to the Mayo Clinic, making an effort to stay mentally, psychically and socially engaged throughout your life may help prevent the onset of dementia.