Do I Have Dementia?

Are you over 65?

Do you have memory loss (which is usually noticed by your spouse or someone else)?

Do you have difficulty concentrating?

Have you lost interest in spending time with friends and family, hobbies, or activities you once enjoyed?

Are you struggling to follow the conversation or find the right word?

Do you repeat daily tasks, such as shaving, or collect items obsessively?

Do you repeat the same questions in a conversation after they’ve been answered?

Do you have difficulty reasoning, problem-solving or handling complex tasks?

Do you have increasing difficulties with tasks and activities that require organization and planning?

Is it hard for you to carry out familiar daily tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shopping?

Do you feel confused about time and place and disorientated (you wander and can't find your way home or getting lost while driving)?

Do you feel confused in unfamiliar environments?

Do you have trouble to recognize someone who tells you that you know each other (an acquaintance, friend or family member)?

Do you have one or more of these symptoms: increased agitation, depression, anxiety, aggression or hallucinations?

Do you have a family history of dementia?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have dementia. Dementia is not a specific disease, but a condition that refers to a group of symptoms related to problems with memory, thinking and social abilities. Dementia causes symptoms that usually interfere with your daily life. Some diseases can look like dementia such as vitamin deficiencies or certain reactions to medications and they can be treated successfully. Please make an appointment with your doctor if you have any memory problems. Problems with your memory can be caused by various conditions and does not necessarily mean that you have dementia.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have dementia. Dementia refers to a collection of symptoms that result from brain damage due to various diseases. The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. Dementia is characterized by impaired thinking, communication and memory. There are many types of dementia and they can affect people differently. Dementia symptoms are often mild and they get worse gradually. It needs to be emphasized that dementia is not a natural part of aging so if you or anyone close to you have memory problems that are not improving, talk with your doctor or your neurologist.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have dementia. Dementia is not a single disease but a term that groups disorders caused by abnormal brain changes. These changes in your brain cause a decline in thinking skills, affect behavior, feelings and relationships. The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. Dementias are progressive which means that the symptoms will get worse over time. Please consult with your doctor or a neurologist if you or someone you know is experiencing memory difficulties. Early diagnosis will allow you to get the maximum benefit from available treatment.