Late-onset Dementia

Dr. Shilpa Pratinidhi — 2025-07-02

Late-onset dementia due to degenerative causes is progressive and irreversible.

Alzheimer’s is responsible for about 70% of all cases of Dementia.

Memories or cognitive abilities need reinforcement regularly, otherwise they tend to decay or weaken over time. The phenomenon is called use it or lose it.

In the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease beta amyloid plagues play a central role and diverse processes of cholinergic abnormalities, interference with normal signal transduction of glutamate receptors, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, neurotransmitter’s deficiency and hypercholesterolemia together is described as amyloid cascade which contributes to neurotransmitter’s abnormalities and neuronal cell death resulting in late onset dementia.

From the initial symptoms, clinical presentation, cognitive assessment, neurological examination, brain imaging, laboratory tests, and genetic testing help classify dementia due to different causes.

There is no cure for progressive dementia at present, but symptomatic relief can be obtained with cholinesterase inhibitors and MDA antagonists.

Ayurvedic medicines like Turmeric, Ashwagandha, Bramhi, Shankhapushpi, Gotu kola, Guggulu, Chandan, and Bhilawa are claimed to exert beneficial effects due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, and antioxidant properties in addition to improving blood flow of the brain and regeneration of neurons apart from their preventive action on β-amyloid plaque formation and possible reversal of β- amyloid pathology.

Lifestyle has a profound influence on the development and progression of dementia. Adequate uninterrupted sleep, brain healthy diet, regular physical exercise, brain-stimulating activities, socialization, and pranayama are found to slow down the cognitive decline in persons suffering from dementia.

The primary caregiver for a person with dementia should be well-informed and trained in the various aspects of the condition. They should be capable of planning and organizing daily activities that are personalized to the individual's needs and those of the family. By addressing challenges proactively and providing comprehensive care, it is possible to slow the progression of the disease, promote dignity, and support the individual in maintaining a degree of independence for as long as possible.