What is dementia?
Dementia is a collective term for various diseases that lead to a progressive loss of cognitive abilities. The most common form is Alzheimer's disease, but vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia are also known.
Typical symptoms are:
- memory loss
- Difficulty with orientation
- Language problems
- Changes in behavior and personality
Although dementia cannot be cured, there are ways to slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.
The three stages of dementia
Early stage (mild dementia)
In the early stages, symptoms are often mild and are sometimes dismissed as normal age-related forgetfulness. Signs include:
✔️ Mild word-finding difficulties
✔️ Difficulty remembering recent experiences
✔️ Problems with orientation in unfamiliar environments
✔️ Decreasing ability to concentrate
➡ Tip: Early diagnosis enables better treatment. Your primary care physician or neurologist is the first point of contact.
Middle stage (moderate dementia)
Cognitive impairments increase and increasingly impact daily life. Symptoms at this stage include:
✔️ Forgetting names and important events
✔️ Difficulty with everyday tasks such as cooking or making phone calls
✔️ Mood swings, restlessness or aggressiveness
✔️ Increased disorientation, even in familiar surroundings
➡ Tip: Structured daily routines and reminders such as notes or digital tools can help.
Late stage (severe dementia)
In the advanced stages, the affected person requires comprehensive support. Typical symptoms include:
✔️ Loss of speech or only a few words
✔️ Problems swallowing and eating
✔️ No more orientation to time and place
✔️ Physical limitations such as difficulty walking
➡ Tip: Intensive care is necessary at this stage. Nursing facilities or specialized care services can support family members.
Helpful links and contact points
🔗 German Alzheimer Society – Comprehensive information, advice & support
www.deutsche-alzheimer.de
🔗 Alzheimer Research Initiative eV – Current research results & diagnostic options
www.alzheimer-forschung.de
🔗 Guide to Dementia – Nationwide information portal for those affected and their families
www.wegweiser-demenz.de
🔗 Dementia service centers in Germany – Regional advice centers for relatives
www.demenz-support.de
Support for everyday life
At Reviva.de you will find specially developed aids for people with dementia , including:
✔️ Activity materials to stimulate the senses
✔️ Everyday aids for more independence
✔️ Specially designed books for people with dementia
👉 Discover our range here: www.reviva.de
We hope this guide provides you with valuable insights and supports you in supporting your loved one. 💙