What is dementia?

The word dementia describes a set of symptoms that are related to loss of memory. Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or a series of strokes. Specific symptoms of dementia vary from person to person depending on the part of the brain that is damaged by the disease that is causing dementia.

Symptoms of dementia may include:

• Memory loss
• Difficulties with thinking
• Difficulties with Problem-solving
• Impaired language capability
• Changes in mood or behavior

Dementia risk and nutrition

The risk of developing dementia increases with age. However, there are some ways in which dementia can be prevented or delayed. Current evidence suggest that good nutrition can prevent and aid early stages of the disease. People with raised blood pressure, mid-life obesity or history of strokes are much more likely to develop dementia. Strong evidence suggest dementia and heart health are closely linked.

Dietician treatment of dementia

There is some evidence that changes in the brain can occur up to 10 years prior to diagnosis, and therefore, managing any heath risks before dementia occurs is imperative. Working with a dietitian to help lower blood pressure and constructing a diet that will aid in preventing heart diseases will help reduce the risk of developing dementia.