Dementia is a growing concern as our elderly population increases, and it’s one of the leading degenerative diseases. Unfortunately, once dementia progresses, restoring cognitive function to previous levels becomes impossible. However, it’s important to note that dementia doesn’t just appear overnight in a healthy individual—there are often signs and opportunities for early intervention.
Dr. Hwangbo Song from Incheon Sejong Hospital emphasizes, “Identifying and addressing various risk factors for dementia at a younger age can cut the risk by nearly half.”
So, what exactly is dementia? The dictionary defines it as a loss of intellectual ability severely impacting social or occupational functioning. In simpler terms, it refers to significant cognitive impairment that hinders daily independence. It’s important to recognize that not all cases of dementia are alike.
Cognitive decline can stem from different types, including Alzheimer’s dementia, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and Lewy body dementia. Each type comes with its own clinical symptoms and progression.
Patients often voice concerns about their cognitive abilities. This is known as subjective cognitive impairment if cognitive tests return normal results. When tests indicate a decline but don’t significantly affect daily life, it’s classified as mild cognitive impairment. Most dementia patients typically experience a gradual decline, transitioning from subjective cognitive impairment or mild cognitive impairment to full-blown dementia.
Dementia arises from a complex interplay of risk factors. In midlife, conditions like diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and high cholesterol, which are closely linked to cardiovascular health, pose significant risks. Lifestyle choices—such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and lack of exercise—also play a crucial role. Additionally, factors like depression and head injuries during middle age increase dementia risk.
On a positive note, engaging in regular cognitive-stimulating activities during midlife can help lower this risk.
Dr. Hwangbo explains, “Research indicates that early correction and treatment of dementia risk factors can reduce risk by up to 45%. It’s most effective to address these risk factors before middle age and maintain prevention efforts, as the risk of dementia increases during this stage of life.”
Incheon Sejong Hospital offers a range of dementia tests and diagnoses, including neuropsychological assessments (memory tests), blood tests, and brain MRIs. It doesn’t just prescribe medication; it provides tailored strategies to understand the causes of cognitive decline and risk factors, aiming to prevent and slow the progression of dementia.
Typically, patients need to visit the hospital three times for initial consultations, tests, and results. However, Incheon Sejong Hospital has implemented a convenient Dementia one-stop service, allowing patients and caregivers to complete initial consultations and testing all in one day.
Dr. Hwangbo stresses the importance of early intervention: “Correcting and treating dementia risk factors early can prevent or slow its progression. Since dementia is a critical health issue requiring specialist care, families must prioritize early detection more than anyone else.”
