Dementia is the loss of intellectual functions, such as thinking, remembering, and reasoning, impacting upon a person's daily functioning. It is not a disease in itself, but rather a group of symptoms that may accompany certain diseases or other conditions. Some of the better-known types of dementia include Alzheimer's, vascular, frontotemporal, and Lewy Body dementia. These terms may also be referred to by their new clinical grouping "neurocognitive disorders".
Support, education, and relief for caregivers become essential to optimize care for people living with dementia. Services are available that offer information, support, and respite care.