Dementia

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Basic Facts

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a brain disease that affects how a person thinks, feels, and communicates. People living with dementia may have:

  • Trouble remembering things
  • Difficulty understanding information
  • A shorter attention span
  • Changes in mood and personality

How Common is Dementia?

  • Up to 7% of adults age 60 and older have dementia.
  • About half of people who live to age 85 have some form of dementia.

Sometimes older adults have memory or thinking problems because of other conditions, such as depression, untreated hearing loss, or other health issues. If you are worried about your memory, talk with your healthcare provider. They can help find the cause of your symptoms.

Early Diagnosis and Planning

If you are diagnosed with dementia, finding out early is helpful. Early diagnosis allows you and your loved ones to plan, manage the condition, and connect with support services. It also gives you time to make decisions about your future healthcare.

Dementia affects family members and caregivers as well. Caregivers may feel anxious, lose sleep, become depressed, or have physical health problems because they are caring for someone with dementia. Caregivers may need support and time to rest.

 

Last Reviewed and Updated: August 2026
By: AGS/HiAF Public Education Committee, HealthinAging.org Content Reviewers

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