Dementia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
ðŸ§
dementia
[dɪˈmɛnʃə ]
Definition
medical condition
Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. It is not a specific disease, but rather a group of symptoms that can be caused by various conditions. Symptoms may include memory loss, confusion, difficulty with language, and changes in mood or behavior.
Synonyms
cognitive impairment, memory loss, mental decline.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dementia |
Used in a medical context to describe a broad category of brain diseases that cause a long-term and often gradual decrease in the ability to think and remember. Often associated with older adults.
|
| mental decline |
A broader and less clinical term that refers to the general deterioration of mental functions, including memory, attention, and thinking skills. This term may be used to describe the natural aging process or the impact of various health conditions.
|
| cognitive impairment |
Used to describe various conditions that affect memory, thinking, and reasoning but may not be as severe or specific as dementia. It can be a mild or moderate decline in cognitive functions and isn't necessarily permanent.
|
| memory loss |
A more general and less clinical term used to describe the inability to remember information or past events. It can be temporary or permanent and can occur for various reasons, such as aging, injury, or illness.
|
Examples of usage
- Her grandmother was diagnosed with dementia and required constant care.
- The doctor explained that dementia is a progressive condition with no cure.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Dementia is not a single disease but an umbrella term for various cognitive challenges, including Alzheimer's and vascular dementia.
- It is estimated that over 55 million people worldwide live with some form of dementia, with numbers expected to rise significantly in the coming decades.
Pop Culture
- Dementia has been portrayed in numerous films and television shows, illustrating its impact on families, such as in the movie 'Still Alice'.
- The condition is often discussed in popular songs and literature, emphasizing the emotional and relational struggles it can create.
Psychology
- People with dementia can experience challenges like paranoia, anxiety, and changes in personality due to their condition.
- Supportive therapies and activities, like music and art, are used to help enhance the quality of life for those affected.
History
- Historically, reflections on dementia date back to ancient times, with varying understandings of mental health and cognitive decline.
- In the 19th century, 'senility' was the common term used, highlighting how perceptions of the condition have evolved.
Origin of 'dementia'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'dementia', meaning 'madness' or 'insanity', highlighting the serious symptoms it can cause.
- It combines 'de-' which implies 'down' and 'mentia' relates to 'mind', indicating a decline in mental faculties.
The term 'dementia' originated from the Latin word 'demens', which means 'mad' or 'irrational'. It was first used in the 18th century to describe a state of mental decline. Throughout history, dementia has been associated with aging, but modern research has shown that it can be caused by various factors beyond just age.