Dementia is a decline in mental ability which affects memory, thinking, problem-solving, concentration and perception. Some forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease, are degenerative i.e. they get worse over time. Other forms of dementia, such as vascular dementia, may be non-degenerative i.e. they may not get worse over time.

People with dementia can become confused, leading to restless or repetitive behaviour, which can be very distressing for everyone concerned. They may also seem irritable, tearful or agitated. They may also develop other problems such as depression, disturbed sleep, aggression, inappropriate sexual behaviour and incontinence.

Dementia is almost invariably a disease of ageing. About 1 in 20 people over the age of 65 are affected, and 1 in 5 people over the age of 80. Dementia in people under 65 is known as early onset or pre-senile dementia and is rare, affecting under 1 in 1000.

For further information please contact

Alzheimer's Society

Gordon House, 10 Greencoat Place, London SW1P 1PH

Phone number - 020 7306 0606

Helpline - 0845 300 0336

Fax - 020 7306 0873

Web - http://www.alzheimers.org.uk