Hawai‘i Dementia Initiative

Dementia is the overall term that describes a group of symptoms such as memory loss, difficulties with language, problem solving and other cognitive functions. Dementia is caused by abnormal changes in the brain due to various diseases and damage to brain cells. Alzheimer’s disease is one type of dementia and itʻs the most common. There are many different types of dementia.

You’ve already taken the first step to learn more by visiting this website. Way to go! Here’s a list of signs and symptoms. If these sound similar to your current experience, speak with your healthcare provider about your cognition. A healthcare provider can do a cognitive screening and further evaluation if appropriate. There may be other treatable medical conditions that can cause dementia-like symptoms. Either way, there’s hope, support, and care for you on your journey.

Nearly half of dementia cases could be reduced by addressing modifiable risk factors. Research is continually advancing and there are many potential risk factors being studied around the world. These are the top 14 modifiable risk factors as of 2024. Click the link below to see AARP’s Six Pillars of Brain Health.

You are not alone. Everyone has either been a caregiver, is currently a caregiver, will be a caregiver, or will need a caregiver.

• Here’s some organizations who specialize in supporting caregivers.