Understanding dementia types
Dementia is not a single disease — it is an umbrella term for progressive cognitive decline affecting daily function. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type, followed by vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia. Accurate typing guides prognosis, treatment options and planning. Many reversible conditions (depression, thyroid disease, B12 deficiency, medication effects) mimic dementia and must be excluded.
Related: Cognitive Care → · Dr. Jitendra Knowledge Hub → · ICHD-3 Topic →
Evaluation approach
Patient plus informant history, cognitive screening (MoCA/MMSE), medication review, and targeted labs and imaging to exclude reversible contributors. A family member who sees daily change should attend the appointment — their observations are essential for accurate assessment.
What families should know
Dementia is managed, not cured. Education covers realistic expectations, communication strategies, safety planning and community resources. Behavioral changes (wandering, agitation, sleep disturbance) are addressed with practical strategies and, when needed, targeted medication discussion.
Safety planning
Driving assessment, kitchen and home safety, medication management, and emergency planning are discussed proactively. These conversations are sensitive but essential — early planning preserves autonomy longer and reduces crisis situations.
- Driving safety — assessment and discussion
- Kitchen and home safety modifications
- Medication management and simplification
- Emergency contact and identification planning
Support resources
Caregiver support, education materials and follow-up scheduling are part of ongoing management. Family meetings may be arranged for complex situations.
| Aspect | What is offered |
|---|---|
| Cognitive screening | MoCA/MMSE with informant history |
| Safety planning | Driving, kitchen, medication review |
| Caregiver support | Education, strategies, follow-up |