Dement: meaning, definitions and examples
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dement
[dษชหmษnt ]
Definition
Context #1 | Verb
mental decline
To dement means to drive someone to madness or to inflict mental illness upon them. It is often used in a historical context where individuals were considered to have lost their sanity.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The stress of the situation began to dement him slowly.
- Her constant worries about the future seemed to dement her.
- The isolation and fear in the haunted house made the characters feel as if they were being demented.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'dement' comes from the Latin 'dementare', meaning 'to drive mad' or 'to lose one's senses'.
- It is related to the word 'dementia', which refers to a group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities.
Medicine
- Dementia is not a single disease but a general term covering various brain illnesses that affect memory and cognitive functions.
- Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for up to 70% of cases.
- Symptoms can include memory loss, language difficulties, and impaired judgment, often worsening over time.
Psychology
- Research suggests that factors like age, genetics, and lifestyle can influence the onset of dementia-related conditions.
- Cognitive training and engaging in puzzles can potentially help delay the symptoms of dementia in some individuals.
Social Awareness
- Dementia affects millions of people worldwide, making awareness and understanding critical in supporting those affected.
- Support groups for families and caregivers can help them cope with the challenges of caring for individuals with dementia.
Literature
- Dementia has been a poignant theme in literature, appearing in works that explore the fragility of memory and identity.
- Books like 'Still Alice' by Lisa Genova offer insight into the personal experiences of those living with dementia.