The word dementia describes a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or a series of strokes. Dementia is progressive, which means the symptoms will gradually get worse.
The following information and links to factsheets comes from the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK
Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia. During the course of the disease, the chemistry and structure of the brain changes, leading to the death of brain cells. Factsheet: What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Vascular Dementia can occur if the oxygen supply to the brain fails as brain cells may die. The symptoms of vascular dementia can occur either suddenly, following a stroke, or over time, through a series of small strokes. Factsheet: What is vascular dementia?
Dementia with Lewy bodies .This form of dementia gets its name from tiny spherical structures that develop inside nerve cells. Their presence in the brain leads to the degeneration of brain tissue. Factsheet: What is dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB)?