Dementia is a term used to describe a range of symptoms associated with a decline in cognitive function, characterized by memory loss, difficulty in thinking and solving problems, and changes in mood and behavior. It’s a progressive condition that affects people mainly in their later years, although it can occur earlier in adulthood.
Since dementia affects cognitive function, you may wonder if it’s classified as a mental illness. Dementia is not considered a mental illness. Mental illness is a broad category of conditions that affect a person’s thinking, behavior, mood, and overall well-being. On the other hand, dementia is primarily a cognitive disorder that affects memory, thinking, and communication skills.
However, dementia can lead to behavioral and mood changes, such as depression, anxiety, and aggression, and it can co-occur with mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the differences between dementia and mental illness to provide appropriate treatment and care for those affected.
Understanding Dementia
Dementia is a progressive, degenerative brain disease that affects a person’s cognitive functions, including memory, language, attention, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. Currently, there are over 55 million people worldwide living with dementia, and this number is expected to rise to 153 million by 2050. Therefore, it is essential to have a clear understanding of what dementia is, its types, causes, and symptoms.
Types of Dementia
There are several types of dementia. The most common types include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Mixed dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent type, accounting for 60–70% of cases. It typically starts with memory loss, progressing to difficulty with communication and environmental awareness.
Vascular dementia is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain due to stroke or other cardiovascular diseases.
Lewy body dementia is associated with the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits called Lewy bodies in the brain.
Frontotemporal dementia is rare but affects the front and side areas of the brain and is characterized by changes in personality and behavior.
Mixed dementia is a combination of different types of dementia.
Causes of Dementia
Dementia is primarily caused by damage to brain cells and the decrease in the production of neurotransmitters that transmit signals between them. The risk factors for dementia may include genetics, environmental factors, head injuries, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and high alcohol consumption. Age is also a significant risk factor as the chances of developing dementia increase as a person gets older.
Symptoms of Dementia
The symptoms of dementia may vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, but some common signs include:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty communicating
- Mood swings
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Personality changes
These symptoms may change over time, and in severe cases, a person may require round-the-clock care.
Understanding Mental Illness
When discussing conditions that affect our mental health, it’s important to define what constitutes a mental illness. According to the American Psychiatric Association, a mental illness is a medical condition that affects a person’s thinking, feelings, behavior, or mood. These conditions can vary in severity and duration and can be caused by a variety of factors such as genetics, environment, and life experiences.
Examples of mental illnesses can include anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Each of these conditions presents unique symptoms and challenges, but all can significantly impact a person’s quality of life if left untreated.
It’s worth noting that while dementia can have cognitive and behavioral symptoms that may seem similar to mental illnesses, it is not considered a mental illness in the same sense. Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior and is typically caused by damage to brain cells. While there may be overlap in some of the symptoms of dementia and mental illnesses, they are distinct conditions with different causes and treatments.
Understanding the distinctions between various mental illnesses and conditions like dementia is an important step in promoting mental health education and destigmatizing these issues. By seeking treatment and support when needed, individuals can find relief from the symptoms of mental illness and improve their overall well-being.
Join an Inclusive, Supportive Community
There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding dementia and mental illnesses that contribute to stigmatization. By promoting education and awareness, we can help break down the barriers and reduce the negative associations with dementia and mental illness.
As part of our commitment to combating stigma, our Memory Care community at Princeton Foxtrail provides quality, compassionate care for those living with dementia. We seek to promote mental, emotional, and social well-being for both residents and caregivers in our community.
To learn more about our Memory Care lifestyle and how we can support you and your loved one, contact us today or schedule a visit. Let us partner with you to provide the care and support your loved ones need so that they can enjoy life to the fullest.
