Dementia is a disease which causes progressive cognitive impairment.
It impacts memory, thinking, language, orientation, judgement and social behavior, with 90% of cases affecting people over age 65.
One in ten people in this age group are diagnosed with dementia, but with people now living longer, the number of cases is expected to double from 55,000 to 113,000 up to 2036.
People with dementia tend to retain long-term memory, while losing short-term memory. There is currently no cure, but its progress can be slowed down.
The average life expectancy for a person with dementia is three to nine years after diagnosis.
The risk factors for dementia can include genetics, smoking, alcohol, diabetes and cholesterol as well as aging.
You can help reduce your risk significantly through exercise, a healthy diet, proper sleep and keeping your mind active.
Dr Ray Walley joined us for our weekly medical consultation to explain more about the condition and how to recognise the signs.
For more information, visit the HSE website understandtogether.ie
Listen to the interview in full by pressing the play button on this page.
