Dementia

14 May 2019

Dementia is a syndrome – usually of a chronic or progressive nature – in which there is deterioration in cognitive function (i.e. the ability to process thought) beyond what might be expected from normal ageing. It affects memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capacity, language, and judgement. 

Dementia results from a variety of diseases and injuries that affect the brain, such as Alzheimer disease or stroke.

The number of people living with dementia worldwide is currently estimated to be around 50 million. This number is expected to triple by 2050. Dementia can be overwhelming, not only for the people who have it, but also for their care-givers and families. A better understanding of dementia is needed in all countries, to help break down the stigma and misunderstandings that are still widespread and, for many people, prevent diagnosis and care.

Related

Dementia fact sheet

Cathy Greenblat
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Dementia is not a normal part of ageing

Although dementia mainly affects older people, it is not a normal part of ageing. It is caused by a variety of brain illnesses that affect memory, thinking, behavior and the ability to perform everyday activities.

WHO/T. Halvari
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The number of people living with dementia is increasing rapidly

Around 50 million people live with dementia. This number is expected to triple by 2050.

WHO/T. Pietrasik
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Dementia inflicts a heavy economic burden on society

The annual global cost of dementia is estimated to be US$ 818 billion. Nearly 85% of costs relate to family and social, rather than medical, care. The annual costs of caring for people with dementia are expected to rise to US$ 2 trillion by 2030.

WHO/A. Loke
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Leading a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of dementia

People can reduce their risk of dementia by getting regular exercise, not smoking, avoiding harmful use of alcohol, controlling their weight, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining healthy blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

WHO/A. Loke
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There is no cure for dementia but much can be done to support people living with dementia and their carers

Currently there is no cure for dementia. However, much can be done to support people living with dementia. Early diagnosis is important; regular health checks can help to ensure that accompanying physical illnesses are diagnosed and treated; and health and social care systems, when adequately resourced, can ensure care at all stages of dementia.

WHO/I. Montilla
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The majority of carers for people with dementia are family members

Dementia carers are very often family members who need to make considerable adjustments to their family and professional lives in order to manage care. WHO has created iSupport, an online training programme providing carers of people with dementia with advice on overall management of care, dealing with behaviour changes and how to look after their own health.

Cathy Greenblat
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Dementia-friendly initiatives are helping make life easier for people living with dementia and their carers

Dementia-friendly initiatives are often set up by civil society organizations. Activities include dementia cafes for people affected to share experiences and seek advice; special signage in public spaces to make it easier for people with dementia to get about; and fundraising events to support research efforts.

WHO/N. Nair
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Dementia is a public health priority

In recognition of the importance of taking action on dementia, the World Health Assembly, WHO’s primary governing body, endorsed in 2017 the Global action plan for the public health response to dementia. This document provides the framework for governments, researchers and civil society organizations to take action on dementia over the next decade.

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