Dementia is a loss of cognitive functions (such as thinking, reasoning or the ability to remember) that interferes with daily life. Dementia itself isn’t a disease, though it often accompanies diseases like Alzheimer’s. When it’s caused by drugs, alcohol, depression, or imbalances in substances such as hormones or vitamins, dementia may be partially or fully reversible. When it’s caused by disease or certain injuries, it’s irreversible. In contrast, Alzheimer’s disease is responsible for 60-80% of dementia, per WebMD and others. One in eight Americans over 65 has Alzheimer’s, which affects women more than men. It’s a progressive, degenerative brain disease that affects parts of the brain that control memory, thought, and language.
