Dementia

The term “dementia” can encompass a variety of closely related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Whatever the cause, the results are similar: a gradual decline in cognitive ability among older individuals, including hampered memory and concentration, plus an inability to perform daily tasks.

All forms of dementia are caused by the loss of tissue in the brain. The physical mechanisms behind Alzheimer’s are not well understood beyond the fact that cells start to malfunction and die. In vascular dementia, small blood clots prevent blood from flowing to certain regions of the brain. Starved of nutrients, cells in these regions die.

Dementia is not an inevitable consequence of aging. Some people are more susceptible to it than others because of genetic risk factors. Though there is no cure, it can be prevented or slowed down by lifestyle factors, such as avoiding smoking, eating healthy and exercising throughout one’s life, and keeping the mind active through work, cognitive tasks, and socialization.

By measuring the brain’s electrical activity, an EEG can detect when a brain is functioning normally versus when it is starting to show signs of dementia. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have dementia, an EEG can help you make a determination.
It is important to note that an EEG is a diagnostic tool, not a treatment. It is a passive measuring device for monitoring electrical activity and does not attempt to simulate new electrical activity, as some physical treatments for dementia do.

An EEG can be a useful tool for identifying and categorizing potential cases of dementia. Contact our office to learn more about this useful technique.