Alzheimer’s and dementia

You might think dementia is a normal part of growing old – but it’s not. The condition is caused when brain cells are damaged and die faster than they usually would. Brain function declines and gradually you lose the ability to do things. You may forget recent events and, over time, get confused about things like where you are or who other people are. You may become irritable and behave out of character. In the later stages, you may need help with washing, dressing and eating.

The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which is caused by a loss of brain cells. Vascular dementia, the next most common type, is caused by poor circulation of blood to the brain. Find out how to spot signs and protect your brain.