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Dementia is an umbrella term for many conditions and illnesses in which cognitive decline and disease are the key features. It is not a specific illness or any single disease process; it is a term used to describe a collection of various diseases or conditions that produce similar signs and symptoms.
Dementia is described as being present when a person experiences difficulty with their memory, finding the right words, orientation, understanding the meaning of words, recognising objects and carrying out practical tasks or making considered judgements. It can be difficult to diagnose, and a GP may first need to rule out other causes before referring to a specialist healthcare professional for scans and memory tests, which may confirm the diagnosis.
Dementia is a condition that affects all ages, though the majority of people affected are over 65 years of age. Old age is the greatest risk factor, but younger people can also develop it. In fact, around 40,000 people under the age of 65 in the UK have received a diagnosis.
Other associated risk factors include hearing loss, smoking, social isolation, head injury, poor diet, high blood pressure and depression. But dementia is not an inevitable consequence of ageing – even in people over the age of 85, only approximately 25% will have some form of dementia.
Guidance and information for you as a carer
We appreciate that dementia can be overwhelming due to its complexity. That is why we have created detailed and helpful factsheets highlighting early signs, symptoms, and causes, along with frequently asked questions, to support you on this journey.
Facts and figures about dementia in the UK
Frequently asked questions about common symptoms, warning signs and more.
Learn about the various conditions and illnesses
