Diagnosing Dementia
Worldwide, there are an estimated 24 million people living with some form of dementia.
Head coach of the Tennessee Lady Vols basketball team and all-time winningest coach in NCAA basketball history revealed last week that she has dementia.
Pat Summitt’s diagnosis brings to light questions of what dementia is and how to know when forgetfulness is something to be concerned about.
Dementia is the gradual deterioration of mental functioning, such as concentration, memory and judgment, which affects a person’s ability to perform normal daily activities.
The Garrison Institute on Aging provides the Earlier than the Early Signs of Dementia: Putting the Puzzle Together, a resource for those concerned about the signs and symptoms of dementia. Those signs include:
- Short-term memory loss. For example, if you have a stack of canned beans in the pantry but keep buying more.
- Difficulty performing a familiar task. For example, if someone is always neat and meticulous about laundry and ironing and now no longer seems care if things are left undone.
- Time and place disorientation. Not recognizing familiar surroundings.
- Reality and fantasy become blurred.
- Difficulty with abstract thinking. If you never let your finances get out of control and now suddenly find it difficult to balance a checkbook.
- Sundowning and sleeplessness. Feeling agitated and restless.
If you are concerned about a loved one who is experiencing these symptoms, see a physician.
Related
Related Stories
38th Student Research Week Successful at Showcasing Secrets of Immune Defense
Student researchers at TTUHSC had the opportunity to showcase their presentation skills at the 38th Annual Student Research Week Feb. 25 – 27.
Celebrating Veterans: TTUHSC’s General Martin Clay’s Legacy of Service and Leadership
From his initial enlistment in the Army National Guard 36 years ago to his leadership in military and civilian health care management roles, Major General Martin Clay’s career has been shaped by adaptability, mission focus and service to others.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing Named Best Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program in Texas
The TTUHSC School of Nursing Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program has been ranked the No. 1 accelerated nursing program in Texas by RegisteredNursing.org.
Recent Stories
TTUHSC Recognized for Commitment to Improving Experiences and Advancing Outcomes for First-Generation College Students
FirstGen Forward announced TTUHSC is a new member of the FirstGen Forward Network Class of 2026. FirstGen Forward selected TTUHSC because the university demonstrated a commitment to improving experiences and advancing success for first-generation college students.
TTUHSC Researchers Collaborate in Study of Cancer Drug’s Possible Positive Effects on Alzheimer’s Disease
A drug typically used to treat some forms of cancer may also help delay the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Boris Decourt, Ph.D., director of the TTUHSC Laboratory on Neurodegeneration and Translational Research, is part of the Phase II trial.
TTU System Board of Regents Approves Appointment of Grover E. Murray Professor
The Texas Tech University System Board of Regents today (Aug. 13) approved the appointment of Rodney Young, M.D., from the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) School of Medicine, as a Grover E. Murray Professor.