Dementia

Dementia is a syndrome, not a single disease, in which memory, thinking, language or judgment decline enough to interfere with independent daily life.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause, followed by vascular dementia from reduced blood flow, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia; mixed forms are frequent in older adults. Early signs include repeating questions, getting lost in familiar places, trouble managing money and withdrawal from activities, progressing to difficulty with basic self-care. Mild cognitive impairment describes a lesser decline that does not yet disrupt daily function.

Evaluation includes a detailed history from the person and a relative, cognitive screening tests, neurological examination, blood tests to exclude reversible causes such as thyroid disease or vitamin B12 deficiency, and brain imaging. Care focuses on medication for symptoms, structured routines and caregiver support. Cannabidiol is not an established dementia treatment, and the available research is sparse and inconsistent.