Medical history
Medication review
Memory and thinking tests
Physical examination
Blood tests
Hearing or vision evaluation
Brain imaging when appropriate
Doctors may also speak with a family member or caregiver because they may notice changes the person does not recognize.
Sudden Confusion Is Different
Dementia usually develops gradually.
Sudden confusion over hours or days is not typical of ordinary dementia progression and can be a sign of delirium or another medical emergency.
Possible causes include:
Infection
Stroke
Low blood sugar
Medication reactions
Dehydration
Electrolyte problems
Sudden confusion should be assessed promptly.
Can Dementia Be Prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent all forms of dementia, but several habits can support brain health.
These include:
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