A recent editorial in JAMA Neurology (1) suggested that there may be a general decline in Dementia risk in the future because of better brain health due to worldwide improvements in the standard of living, education, and prevention and treatment of serious diseases. This provocative speculation contradicts the more common and dire predictions of a significant increase in Dementia as the world’s population ages. In this article, we explore the latest ideas about normal aging and cognitive decline with an eye on the future. Most older people remember many ordinary things, like how to sing a familiar song and tie a shoe. Many people currently live into their 90s and beyond without any significant signs of cognitive impairment. It may take them longer to recall a word or a name, but their general language ability, vocabulary, and reasoning capacity can remain relatively intact. What does tend to decline in normal aging is mental flexibility. Reliable recollection of facts, events, and practical knowledge becomes more complex, and it may become challenging to use newly learned information. Multitasking and executive functioning that requires speed, verbal, and mathematical reasoning typically slow down, especially after age 70. In his book “Why We Remember” (2), Charan Ranganath suggests that we think of memory like a desk cluttered with crumpled-up scraps of paper. If you think about urgently rooting around on that messy desk, trying to find something important that you’ve scribbled on one of those crumpled scraps, you may begin to feel what it’s like to lose access to your memory. Stages of Cognitive Decline Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) occurs when there is more difficulty with memory and thinking than expected at a person’s age. Although a person with MCI can still be independent, they may struggle with ordinary tasks and may feel easily frustrated, disorganized, and overwhelmed. In a 2014 study (3) of people whose average age was 70, about 30 percent of people who had been diagnosed with MCI later developed Dementia. Dementia involves a further decline in memory and thinking skills, most commonly due to damage to the brain from a variety of causes. A specific disease-modifying drug for Dementia is not currently available, but some symptoms and underlying causes can be treated. Mild Dementia is characterized by increased confusion, and reading and writing can become difficult or impossible. Repetitive or inappropriate questions and inaccurate answers can make conversation challenging, and it is not unusual for people living with Dementia to become disoriented, leave a safe place, and get lost. There is likely to be impulsive behavior, a diminished capacity for empathy, and, eventually, difficulty recognizing family and friends. At its most severe, a person with Dementia may become utterly dependent on others to manage their basic activities of daily living. A definitive diagnosis of Dementia is complicated because the clinical evidence (seen by a doctor in their office or experienced by loved ones at home) of Dementia is very varied. That said, Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology, specifically, is defined by physical damage to the brain tissue: clumps of proteins in the brain in the form of beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. There is a highly accurate commercially available blood test (4) that detects these proteins, and there are two drugs approved by Medicare (lecanemab and donanemab) that dissolve some of the beta-amyloid plaque. Still, they have relatively modest benefits and will not reverse a person’s memory loss or provide lasting improvements. Lecanemab, for example, is said to delay the progression of AD by about five months (5). These drugs require an extensive commitment of time and money, and they have a high risk of serious side effects. Drug regulators in several countries have declined to approve the drugs out of concern that the risks outweigh the modest benefits, and several major US healthcare institutions have opted not to give the drug to anyone with a problematic genetic profile (6). As part of the search to identify cognitive impairment at the earliest possible point so that effective treatments can be developed to prevent and delay the development of Dementia, the concept of Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) has recently appeared in the cognitive continuum (7). It is derived from the requirement by Medicare that the physician ask a patient over 65, at their annual wellness visit, whether they’ve been having any issues with their memory. Participants 60 years and older with normal cognition who participated in the large Framingham Heart Study were asked slightly different variations of that single question, “Do you feel your memory is becoming worse?” Study participants were followed for up to 12 years. If they had answered “Yes,” indicating SCD, it was found that, over time, they had an increased risk of developing cognitive decline and all-cause dementia. On average, SCD preceded the development of MCI by 4.4 years, AD by 6.8 years, and all-cause Dementia by 6.9 years. This supported the premise that SCD could be an early or pre-symptomatic manifestation of impending neurodegeneration, and early detection is believed to improve the potential for treatment and prevention of further decline. While research continues to focus on diagnosis, treatments, and cures, considerable emphasis has shifted toward studying lifestyle and environmental modifications that can reduce the risk and delay the development of cognitive decline. Investing in preventative health (8,9), like being fitted for hearing aids, has been shown to reduce brain damage due to normal biological aging (10). A 2024 article (11) estimates that “…nearly 50 percent of all Dementia cases are preventable…” Experts agree that along with physical exercise or staying socially active, engaging in cognitively stimulating activities or hobbies can help protect against cognitive decline by building mental muscle or “cognitive reserve” (12,13). And these activities have virtually no downsides! Warding Off Cognitive Decline Some healthy lifestyle and environmental modifications that have been scientifically validated to reduce the risk of cognitive decline are listed below and discussed here (14). Eat healthily, the so-called MIND diet. Find a way to exercise regularly to whatever degree is possible for you. Breaking a sweat builds your brain. If you aren’t working or socially active, consider volunteering or getting involved somewhere to be socially and intellectually stimulated. Try to get the best medical care possible if something seems to be physically or psychologically wrong. Ask your doctor to adjust medications that affect cognition. Correct even mild hearing or vision loss; reduced activity in the brain due to age-related sensory changes can lead to faster rates of atrophy and an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia (15). Address sleep problems: untreated, they may contribute to cognitive decline and affect the brain's resilience (16). Moderate or eliminate alcohol consumption and stop using tobacco products. Minimize stress. Widespread prioritizing of healthy habits will have a measurable impact on the future incidence of cognitive decline. Perhaps, hopefully, our grandchildren will learn whether improved brain health, supplemented by the development of targeted treatments and cures, will result in a decrease in the future risk of cognitive decline. Contributing Author: Carol A. Butler, Ph.D. References Vemuri, P. 2024. Improving trends in brain health explain declining dementia risk? JAMA Neurology, 81(5):442-443. Published online March 25, 2024. Ranganath, C. 2024. Why We Remember. Doubleday, New York. Roberts RO et al. 2014. Higher risk of progression to dementia in mild cognitive impairment cases who revert to normal. Neurology Jan 28; 82(4): 317-325. Palmqvist, S. et al. 2024. Blood biomarkers to detect Alzheimer disease in primary care and secondary care. Jama, 332(15):1245-1257. van Dyck CH et al. 2023. Lecanemab in early Alzheimer’s disease. NEJM, 388:9-21. Bogdanich, W. and Kessler, C. What Drugmakers Did Not Tell Volunteers in Alzheimer’s Trials. New York Times October 23, 2024. Kang, M. et al. 2024. Subjective cognitive decline and longitudinal assessment and risk for cognitive impairment. JAMA Psychiatry, published online July 3, 2024.Van Dyck, C. et al. 2022. Taquet, M. et al. 2024. The recombinant shingles vaccine is associated with lower risk of dementia. Nature Medicine.30, 2777-2781. https://rdcu.be/dXxnR Veronese, N. et al. 2022. Influenza vaccination reduces dementia risk, a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ageing Research Reviews, 73. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34861456/ Marinelli J. et al. 2022. Association between hearing loss and development of dementia using formal behavioural audiometric testing within the Mayo Clinic Study of Aging (MCSA): a prospective population-based study. The Lancet Healthy Longevity. 3(12): E817-824. Livingston G et al. Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission. The Lancet Commissions 404 (10452): 572-628. Krivanek TJ et al. 2021. Promoting Successful Cognitive Aging: A Ten-Year Update. J Alzheimers Disease June 1; 81(3): 871-920. Blumen, H. et al. 2024. Cognitive reserve proxies are associated with age-related cognitive decline- not age-related gait speed decline. Neurobiology of Aging. 141:46-54. Butler, C. 2024. Lifestyle modifications for brain health. https:www.dementiasociety.org/post/lifestyle-modifications-for-brain-health Smith, D. 2024. How hearing and vision loss increase the risk of dementia. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/08/well/mind/hearing-vision-dementia-risk.html Ho, P. et al.2024. Sleep, 24-hour activity rhythms, and subsequent amyloid-B pathology. JAMA Neurology, 81(8): 824-834. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1138] Welcome and thank you for joining me. What is donepezil, also known by the brand name Aricept? It is a prescription medicine often used to treat people with Alzheimer's disease, one cause of Dementia that affects memory thinking and behavior. It is also used off-label with specific other causes of Dementia. Donepezil does not cure the disease. Yet it may provide a slight improvement in symptoms for a while. It works by helping certain brain chemicals that support memory and thinking. Some people who take it may feel more alert or able to do daily tasks a little more easily. Taken orally, donepezil is typically taken once daily with or without food, and it's essential to take it at the same time each day. A slightly different formula is available as a multi-day patch on the skin. Like all medicines, donepezil can have side effects. Some people may feel sick to their stomach, have trouble sleeping, have nightmares, or feel dizzy. These side effects are usually mild, but if they worsen, it's essential to inform the doctor. Donepezil works best when taken as part of a complete care plan, including support from caregivers and healthy daily routines. Monitor its usefulness in collaboration with the medical team and discuss when or if the dose should be adjusted or discontinued. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1088] Welcome, and thank you for joining me. Today we're talking about Traumatic Brain Injury, often called TBI. A traumatic brain injury happens when a sudden hard bump, blow, or jolt to the head causes the brain to move inside the skull. Brain surgeons tell us that your brain has the same consistency and firmness as bean curd, also known as tofu. So you can imagine that the soft structure of the brain knocking against the hard skull that surrounds it might lead to some unpleasant outcomes. Also, without advanced testing, and unlike a broken leg in a cast, this type of injury is nearly impossible to see in the traditional sense. So for many people, it's a hidden condition that is not easily understood. TBI may lead to neuroinflammation of the brain tissue, damage brain cells, and affect how a person thinks, feels, behaves, or moves. TBI can happen from falls, car accidents, sports injuries, or being hit in the head. Some injuries are mild, like a concussion, and others can be more serious, leading to long-term problems. In addition, some TBIs are severe one-time events, while others are mild but repeated over time. Signs of a TBI can include confusion, headaches, memory loss, dizziness, mood changes, or trouble speaking. Some symptoms show up right away, but others might appear days or weeks later. For older adults, a TBI can be especially risky. Falls are the most common cause. Even a mild injury can affect thinking, balance, and daily life. It may also increase the risk of developing conditions that express themselves as Dementia later on. If someone has a head injury, it's essential to see a doctor right away, even if they seem okay at first. Rest, follow-up care, and sometimes physical or speech therapy may be needed to help heal the brain. To help prevent TBI, make the home safer by removing tripping hazards, using grab bars in the bathroom, and wearing shoes with a good grip. Looking both ways at intersections when driving, wearing seat belts and helmets when participating in sports or biking, also helps protect the brain. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1062] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today, we're discussing how to prepare for an ambulance call. When someone with Dementia needs assistance, emergencies can be stressful and confusing, but with a bit of planning, you can help the person receive better, safer care. Start by gathering important information. Keep a folder near the front door, or consider having a specially marked container in the refrigerator with the person's full name, birth date, medical conditions, medications, allergies, and emergency contacts. Include copies of any legal documents, like a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order, power of attorney (POA), or health care proxy. Some families also keep this information in a wallet, purse, or on their phone. It's also smart to write a short note explaining the person's Dementia diagnosis, how it affects them, how they communicate, what calms them, and any behaviors emergency medical technicians, also known as EMTs, might expect. This helps first responders be more gentle and prepared. One crucial step you can take is to register the person with your local 911 center. Many communities offer a special needs registry where you can share medical and behavioral information in advance. Then, when you call 911, dispatchers should already know there is a person living with Dementia at the address. Contact your local non-emergency police or fire department to inquire about the availability of this service in your area. When the Ambulance Arrives When EMTs arrive, stay calm and clear. Let them know the person has Dementia. Explain what is normal for them, and share your information packet. Let them know why you called for emergency assistance and how their behavior is different than usual. If the person is upset or afraid, suggest ways to comfort them, such as using a reassuring tone of voice, playing their favorite calming music from an app on your smartphone, and holding their hand. It's almost always better to have a trusted person ride along. Second best is to meet them at the hospital to help explain things and reduce confusion. Good communication and planning can help ensure a safe and respectful experience for everyone involved. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1029] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today, we're talking about oral hygiene, or how to take care of the mouth, teeth, and gums, especially for people living with Dementia. Good oral care helps prevent tooth pain, gum disease, infections, and bad breath, and it can make eating and speaking easier. Tips for Maintaining Oral Hygiene in Dementia As Dementia progresses, it can be harder for a person to remember or manage brushing and flossing. That's where caregivers can help. Using gentle support and simple steps, try using cueing, which means giving short, clear instructions or showing the task step by step. For example, hand them the toothbrush and say, "Let's brush your teeth now," while brushing your teeth to model the behavior. Use the same time and place each day to build a routine. You can even find videos online and play them to show someone brushing their teeth. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and brush for about two minutes. Don't forget to clean the tongue gently using the toothbrush or a tongue scraper to reduce bacteria and bad breath. If the person wears dentures or has implants or bridges, be sure to clean them daily. Remove dentures at night and soak them in a denture cleaner. Check the mouth often for sores, redness, or loose teeth or devices. Flossing can be tricky for someone living with Dementia. Using waxed string floss or dental tape may expose fingers to injury. Consider a water flosser if you believe that regular floss may be dangerous, but start on the lowest pressure. Fill the reservoir with body temperature water, and use a calming voice and movement, as the jet spray might scare someone and cause them to bite down on the flossing wand. Keep dental visits up to date. Some dentists are familiar with issues arising from cognitive impairments. Still, others may need a pre-appointment visit to build awareness with the staff regarding how the person may react. Sitting with the person and holding their hand can be comforting if the person is resistant. Try brushing at a more relaxed time or use music and gentle reassurances to calm them. Even wiping the teeth with a warm, damp cloth is better than nothing. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1011] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today, we're talking about the power of movement and how it can support brain health and even help lower the risk of Dementia. Movement or physical activity is more than just exercise. It's any way you keep your body active, such as walking, stretching, dancing, gardening, or even light housework. Research shows that regular movement helps keep the heart and blood vessels healthy, which is also good for the brain. A healthy blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients that the brain needs to stay strong. Movement also supports the growth of new brain cells and strengthens connections between them. This can improve memory, thinking, skills, and mood. Even small amounts of activity can help reduce stress and improve sleep, both of which are important for brain health. For people worried about Dementia, regular movement may delay or reduce the risk of cognitive decline. It can also help those already living with Dementia by improving balance, reducing restlessness, and lifting spirits. The best part is that movement doesn't need to be difficult. A short daily walk, chair exercises, or dancing to favorite music can make a difference. The key is to find activities that are enjoyable and safe, and to do them consistently. Always talk with a doctor before starting new exercises, especially if there are health concerns. Start slow and build up little by little. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Dementia Answers 1002] Welcome, and thank you for joining me. Today, we're talking about whether the diseases and disorders that underlie the syndrome of Dementia are genetic. The short answer is that for most people, Dementia is caused by a mix of different factors, and only some types of Dementia have a strong genetic link. In a relatively small percentage of cases, certain kinds of Dementia, mostly forms that appear at a younger age, are more directly caused by changes or mutations in specific genes. If someone has one of these rare gene changes, they are very likely to develop a disease, often before age 65. These cases usually run strongly in families, but they are uncommon. For most people, genetics plays a minor role. Having a parent or sibling with Dementia may slightly increase your risk, but it does not mean you will develop it. Other factors, such as age, overall health, lifestyle, and environment, are often more important in determining risk. In addition, some genes can increase the chance of developing Dementia later in life. However, many people with these genes never get Dementia, and many people without them do. The good news is that healthy lifestyle choices such as staying active, eating well, managing blood pressure, stopping and avoiding smoking, and keeping your mind engaged can help lower the risk, even if you have a family history. If you are worried about your genetic risk, talk with your doctor. They may recommend genetic testing and counseling to help you understand your particular situation. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1023] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today, we're talking about how to handle the holidays when someone you care for is living with Dementia. Some holidays are joyful, and some are meant to be times of reflection and somberness, but they can also feel confusing or stressful. For someone with cognitive challenges, with some planning, you can help make the season more peaceful and meaningful for everyone. First, Keep Holidays Simple A calm and quiet holiday is better than a busy one. Choose a few special traditions that feel familiar. Avoid loud music, large crowds, or too many decorations that can cause confusion. Try to keep a routine. People with Dementia feel more secure when their day is predictable. Fatigue and over-planning can cause anxiety, so plan meals and visits around their best time of day, usually in the morning or early afternoon. Involve Your Loved One In Small Ways Let them help with safe and simple tasks like folding napkins, stirring batter, or looking through old photos. These activities can bring comfort and help them feel included. Prepare guests ahead of time. Let family and friends know how the person is doing, and remind them to speak slowly, smile, and be patient. If you notice signs of anxiety or distress, be prepared to roll back activities or bring the person into a quieter room. Consider having everyone wear large name tag labels, even if they've been together for years. It lowers stress levels when trying to remember names. Focus on Joy Most importantly, focus on moments of joy and connectedness rather than perfection. Even small smiles or shared memories can mean a lot. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1084] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today we are going to talk about finger foods and how they can help people living with Dementia. Eating can sometimes become difficult as Dementia progresses. Using utensils like forks, knives, or even spoons can feel confusing or frustrating. This may cause someone to eat less, lose weight, or feel embarrassed at meal times. That is where finger foods can make a big difference. What are finger foods? Finger foods are small, easy-to-hold foods that can be picked up and eaten without needing silverware. Examples include slices of fruit, cheese cubes, small sandwiches, vegetable sticks, or bite sized pieces of chicken or fish. These foods are simple to handle, reduce spills, and can help a person feel more independent. Why use finger foods? First, they allow someone with Dementia to eat with more comfort and confidence. The act of picking up food feels natural and familiar. Second, finger foods encourage better nutrition because they are easy to eat. People are more likely to finish a meal or snack throughout the day. Third, finger foods give back a sense of dignity. Eating without struggling helps the person feel capable and respected. Finally, finger foods can support social connections. Sharing a plate of small foods makes mealtimes feel warm and inviting. How to use finger foods effectively? Offer a variety of healthy options in small amounts. Use foods that are soft and easy to chew. Keep choices colorful and appealing to make eating enjoyable. Most importantly, be patient and supportive. Remembering that meals are not just about food, but also about comfort, pleasure and connection. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1040] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today we're discussing how bladder infections, also known as urinary tract infections (UTIs)*, can impact thinking and memory in older adults, both those with and without Dementia. A bladder infection occurs when bacteria enters the urinary system. In younger people, the main signs are usually pain or burning when urinating, or the need to "go" more often. However, in older adults, the signs can appear quite differently. Instead of apparent physical symptoms, the infection can affect the brain and behavior. How UTIs or Bladder Infections Can Appear in Dementia For someone without Dementia, a bladder infection may cause sudden confusion, trouble paying attention, memory problems, or unusual sleepiness. This sudden change is sometimes referred to as delirium, and it can be frightening. Once the infection is treated with antibiotics and fluids, the confusion often improves. For someone already living with Dementia, a bladder infection can make symptoms much worse very quickly. They may become more agitated, restless, or withdrawn. They might have more trouble recognizing loved ones or following simple instructions. Families sometimes think the Dementia has suddenly progressed when it is actually the infection causing the decline. This is why it is crucial to monitor sudden changes in behavior, mood, or thinking in older adults. How to Manage Bladder Infections or UTIs in Dementia If these changes appear, consult your healthcare provider quickly and ask about the possibility of a UTI. Early treatment can not only cure the infection, but also help restore clearer thinking. Staying hydrated, practicing good hygiene and regular medical checkups can help reduce the risk of bladder infections in older adults. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. *A bladder infection (cystitis) is a specific type of urinary tract infection (UTI) confined to the bladder, while a UTI is a broader term covering infections anywhere in the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, or urethra. Both cause similar symptoms, but a general UTI may include, in addition to bladder pain, back pain, fever, and nausea. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Dementia Society of America Cares www.dementiasociety.org/donate What is Dementia? Dementia is a collection of symptoms, a syndrome, that includes Alzheimer’s, Vascular, Lewy Body, Frontotemporal, Mixed Dementia, and many other underlying causes. Our mission is simple yet profound: Providing Hope by Raising Awareness, Funding Research, and Enriching Lives. Thanks to you Thanks to you, we’ve been able to touch the lives of hundreds of thousands of individuals this year who are seeking trusted, accessible Dementia education online. Every one of those visits represents a family looking for clarity… a spouse trying to understand what is Dementia, and how might it change a loved one… an adult child seeking guidance in the middle of the night… a person newly diagnosed searching for hope. Thanks to you, we have directly served thousands of families this year with information, support, and compassion when they needed it most. These are real people—neighbors, friends, parents, grandparents—leaning on us during some of the hardest chapters of their lives. You can continue making a difference One family, one resource, one act of generosity at a time. Click here to donate www.DSAdonate.org Thank you, thank you, thank you! PS: Read online or request a free copy of our popular guide to be sent to your home at www.dementiasociety.org/the-big-umbrella Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1001] Welcome and thank you for joining me. What is Dementia? Dementia is a syndrome, a collection of symptoms, typically expressed as changes in memory, thinking, and ability to perform activities of daily living. Many people believe that Dementia is just a normal part of aging, but that's not necessarily true. What are some risk factors for developing Dementia? While getting older is the biggest risk factor, not everyone will develop Dementia. Other factors, including health, lifestyle, and family history, can also increase the chances of developing this condition. One major risk factor is family history and genetics. However, having a parent or close blood relative with Dementia does not mean someone will definitely develop Dementia. It just increases the risk. Certain health conditions can also play a role. Diabetes, high cholesterol, COPD, high blood pressure and heart disease can affect the brain leading to damage over time. Head injuries like concussions may also increase the risk, especially if someone has had multiple injuries. Lifestyle choices are important for brain health. Smoking, drinking, excess alcohol, eating unhealthy foods and not exercising can all increase the risk of Dementia. Staying active, eating a balanced diet and avoiding harmful substances can help protect the brain. Social and mental activity are also key factors. People who stay engaged in conversations, spend time with family and friends and do activities like reading or solving complex problems or puzzles may lower their risk. Loneliness, depression, and long-term stress can have negative effects on brain function. Keeping the mind active and maintaining social connections can help reduce the chances of cognitive decline. Another important factor is sleep quality. Poor sleep, especially conditions like sleep apnea, can impact memory and thinking abilities. Getting enough rest each night allows the brain to repair itself and function properly. Although some risk factors like age and genetics cannot be changed, now you know that there are ways to lower the risk of Dementia. Even small changes like walking more often or spending time with loved ones can make a difference. Taking steps to improve overall health and well-being may not guarantee Dementia prevention, but they can help reduce the chances of developing it and promote a better quality of life. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you for joining today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.