Preventing and diagnosing dementia.

While dementia is an umbrella term for a range of degenerative brain disorders, many share similar presentations. Nurses are ideally placed to identify those at risk and empower them to access treatment and plan and prepare for their future needs--as such, they need up-to-date knowledge of the signs and symptoms of the different types of dementia to identify risk factors and make an informed diagnosis. This article, the third in a four-part series on dementia, examines the risk factors, signs, symptoms and diagnosis of dementia, as well as outlining lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise that may help to prevent the development of the condition.

New approaches to understanding dementia.

Improving understanding of brain disorders is likely to be one of the core aims of physiological research in the 21st century. This article, the second in a four-part series, looks at the main types of dementia and explores emerging theories about how the condition develops. These theories are improving our understanding of the neurodegeneration that characterises the most common forms of dementia, and will help improve care for those living with dementia.

How dementia differs from normal ageing.

Dementia is a collective name for a set of symptoms that include memory loss, mood changes, confusion and increasing difficulty with everyday tasks. This four-part series provides an overview of dementia and its treatment, from its causes and pathophysiology to diagnosis and the nurse's role in its management. This first article reviews the main forms of dementia and how research is shedding new light on the differences between dementia and normal ageing.

The nurse's role in caring for people with dementia.

This final article in a four-part series on dementia focuses on the nurse's role in managing dementia and highlights the importance of communication skills in providing high-quality care. It also discusses treatment options, such as medication and ensuring the patient's nutritional needs are met, as well as the importance of dealing sensitively with behavioural problems that may mask pain or emotional difficulties. Finally, it explains how the care environment can make a huge difference to the lives of people with dementia, where aspects such as clear signage and assistive technology can contribute to dignity and quality of life.