Understanding dementia & memory problems
Some forgetfulness is a normal part of ageing — misplacing keys or taking a little longer to recall a name. Dementia is different. It is a group of conditions in which memory, thinking, language, judgement and behaviour decline enough to interfere with everyday life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type; others include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia.
Not every memory problem is dementia. Depression, thyroid problems, vitamin B12 deficiency, side-effects of medicines, poor hearing, sleep problems or sudden confusion from infection (delirium) can all affect memory — and many of these are treatable. That is why a proper assessment matters.
Dementia affects the whole family. Support, information and planning can make a significant difference to the quality of life of both the person and their caregivers.
Common signs
- Repeating the same questions or stories
- Forgetting recent conversations or events
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Difficulty handling money, cooking or managing medicines
- Struggling to find words or follow conversations
- Changes in personality, behaviour or judgement
- Suspiciousness, irritability or withdrawal
- Confusion that is worse in the evening
Having some of these signs doesn’t mean you have a condition. A professional assessment helps make sense of them.
When to see a psychiatrist
Arrange an assessment if memory or behaviour changes are noticeable to family, are getting worse over months, or are affecting daily tasks or safety. Early evaluation helps identify treatable causes and allows planning.
Sudden confusion over hours or days is a medical emergency, often caused by infection, dehydration or medicine effects, and needs prompt medical attention.
How treatment works at The Peaceful Mind
Assessment includes a detailed history from the person and family, memory and thinking tests, a review of medicines, and relevant blood tests or brain scans to identify the cause.
Treatment may include medicines that can help memory and behaviour symptoms in some types of dementia, treatment of depression, sleep or anxiety, and correction of contributing factors such as hearing, vision or vitamin levels. Equally important are practical guidance for caregivers — routines, communication, home safety, managing behaviour changes — and support for caregiver stress.
Geriatric psychiatry is part of our services. Follow-up can be in person or, when travel is difficult for an older adult, through online consultation with a family member present.
Talk to Dr. Vibha about dementia & memory problems
In-clinic in Ravet or online · English, मराठी, हिंदी · Confidential
Questions people ask
No. Mild forgetfulness can be normal ageing. Dementia involves a decline that affects daily life. Depression, vitamin deficiency, thyroid problems and medicine side-effects can also cause memory problems.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Vibha A. Bhide — {{TODO: confirm review & date}}