Dementia describes a condition characterized by acquired cognitive deficits. Common difficulties may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem solving, and language, among others. A person with dementia may also experience changes in his or her mood or behavior.

Dementia is caused by the brain experiencing nonreversible damage as a result of disease, such as Alzheimer’s disease or small strokes. Dementia is most commonly experienced by adults older than 65 years of age. Although it can be experienced earlier in life, this is significantly less common, and age can be seen as one of the key risk factors for dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for approximately 70% of cases in those older than 65 years of age. However, not ...

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