A disease that affects brain function, usually progressive dementia, Dementia is a condition characterized by a cluster of symptoms that affect cognitive abilities, memory, thinking, behavior, and daily functioning. This disease results from the damage or death of brain cells and is one of the most common neurological disorders in older adults. The most common type is Alzheimer's disease, but other types also exist. Other important causes of the disease include vascular dementia, Lewy body disease, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson's disease, and other dementia-related conditions.
What are the symptoms?

The first symptoms are often memory problems. The person may have difficulty remembering recent events and may ask repetitive questions.
A weakening of cognitive abilities such as thinking, reasoning, and problem solving may occur.
There may be difficulty remembering words, difficulty expressing them, or speech problems that make understanding difficult.
There may be difficulty returning to familiar places and finding direction.
Difficulty performing simple daily tasks and decreased personal care and household chores may occur.
There may be difficulty in making decisions and an inability to make rational decisions.
What are the causative factors?

Chronic brain inflammation and other brain health problems can increase the risk of the disease. Cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol can negatively impact brain health and dementia It can increase the risk. Long-term smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also increase the risk. Recurrent head injuries or severe brain injuries, in particular, can contribute to the development of the disease in later life. Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as an unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, social isolation, and lack of cognitive activity also increase the risk of developing the disease. Parkinson's disease, stroke, and some neurological diseases are also among the factors that increase the risk of developing this disease. It is important for people experiencing forgetfulness and cognitive decline to consult a healthcare professional and undergo the necessary tests. To reduce the risk of the disease, experts recommend adopting healthy lifestyle habits, engaging in brain exercises, social interaction, and regular health checkups.