Dementia
As we age, it’s normal for our brains to change, which can lead to memory loss. This can evoke a range of emotions and questions for both the affected individual and their loved ones, as memory loss may also indicate a medical condition like dementia.
Dementia is a general term that describes a decline in a person’s memory, thinking skills, perception, communication abilities or behavior. This decline worsens over time and can hinder the person’s ability to perform daily activities.
There are many causes of dementia and a person may have more than one cause for their dementia.

Common types of dementia and available resources
Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia where brain cells degenerate, causing a steady decline in memory and mental function.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Motor neurons are nerve cells that control muscle cells. ALS attacks the motor neurons eventually causing them to die resulting in inability to move and control movement.
Down Syndrome and Alzheimer's
High levels of amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles in the brain are characteristic signs of Alzheimer’s disease. By the age of 40, nearly all individuals with Down syndrome have high levels of amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles in their brains. By age 50, about 30% of this group will develop Alzheimer’s disease, and this likelihood increases to 50% by age 60.
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) occurs when certain proteins in the brain malfunction and are shaped differently than normal cells. These damaged cells can form clumps in the frontal and temporal lobes, blocking normal brain functioning and causing this progressive disease.
Lewy body dementia (LBD)
Lewy body dementia, also referred to as dementia with Lewy bodies, is the second most common form of dementia in older adults. In Lewy body dementia, a protein normally found in the brain, accumulates and forms clusters called Lewy bodies. The Lewy bodies aggregate in areas of the brain important for memory, thinking and movement, causing changes in these behaviors.
Parkinson's disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition, which leads to depletion of the neurochemical and dopamine and affects movement. Over time, Parkinson’s can also affect thinking abilities and mood.

Is it normal aging or is it dementia?
As we age, our brains naturally change, often leading to memory loss. However, memory loss can also be a sign of medical conditions like dementia.
Learn the signs of normal aging and signs that you should see a doctor.

Can dementia be prevented?
While there is no guaranteed approach to prevent Alzheimer's or other dementias yet, you can learn healthy lifestyle choices approved by Alzheimer's.gov to enhance your brain health and potentially lower your risk.
Concerned about memory loss?
Call us at 210-450-9960 to schedule a memory screening appointment.
Existing patients of UT Health San Antonio can request an appointment online with MyChart.