Dementia
A Challenge to Quality of Life
Let us remember those who cannot remember us
Dementia is a progressive illness of the brain. When someone has dementia, his or her brain cells are damaged and die faster than they normally do. Gradually the person begins to lose ability to do things. Often it affects the memory first. The person may become confused about who people are, his location and what day it is. Everyday tasks become more and more difficult. The patients personality is likely to change.
Some Facts About Dementia
- Dementia affects 1 in 20 people over the age of 65
- About 3 million people in India have dementia
- Although it is more common among elderly people, younger people can also be affected
- As the disease progresses, the affected individual becomes dependant on others for help in all aspects of daily life.
- Caring for a person with dementia can be a difficult and stressful task
- At some point a person with dementia will need 24 hour care including assistance with daily activities such as eating dressing and even going to their toilet
- No cure has been found out yet, however newer medicines are quite useful, especially for those in early and middle stages
