what is dementia?

'Dementia' is an umbrella term used to describe a syndrome of incurable, and in most cases, progressive diseases of the brain resulting in deterioration of cognitive and functional skills, with various behavioural manifestations, primarily in older adults. Typical manifestations are difficulty with memory, difficulty with communication, an impaired ability to make rational judgements and a decline in the ability to carry out daily activities. Agitation, aggression, wandering, shouting, repeated questioning, sleep disturbance, depression and psychosis are additional common symptoms that complicate treatment and care.