What is dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a group of brain disorders. These disorders affect a person's memory, thinking and ability to perform daily activities.  

It is not a specific disease but rather a set of symptoms defined by a decline in brain function. Dementia is severe enough to interfere with a person's daily life. Alzheimer's disease is one of the most common types of dementia and is known for causing memory problems and changes in abilities.  

Some information sources refer to neurocognitive disorders. For clarity, we are using the term dementia. 

Additionally, we are using the term caregiver when referring to the person providing daily care for the person living with dementia. It is becoming increasingly common to refer to this person as a care partner. This is because a caregiver gives care whereas a care partner is an included partner in care.

In 2020, 597,000 people in Canada were living with dementia.

On average, more than 350 Canadians were diagnosed with dementia each day in 2022.

By 2050 it is projected that 1,669,200 people will be living with dementia in Canada.

New Brunswick is expected to have an 89% increase in the number of people living with dementia by 2050 compared to 2020.

• Source Alzheimer Society of Canada

The signs of dementia go beyond normal, age-related changes in memory and thinking. Dementia is a serious and progressive impairment that interferes with daily life. It is caused by specific conditions rather than simple aging.

Normal memory problems:

• You forget what day it is but remember later.
• You have trouble remembering details from conversations or events from years past.
• You are unable to remember the name of an acquaintance.
• You sometimes forget complex words.

Signs of dementia:

• You lose track of the date or even the season or year and do not remember later.
• You cannot remember details of recent conversations or events.
• You do not remember the names of family members and/or even have trouble recognizing them.
• You have trouble participating in daily conversations. 

Dementia can be caused by both genetic and non-genetic factors. Some types of dementia, like familial Alzheimer's disease, run in families because of gene mutations. However, most times, it is not passed down to children and grandchildren. Usually, dementia is caused by a mix of genetics, age, lifestyle, and health conditions.

• Genetic testing and Alzheimers disease 
• Risk factors and prevention 
• Break down myths and stereotypes 
• An Introduction to Dementia