There are dozens of causes of dementia-like symptoms.
Simple and treatable conditions may advance quickly in elders,
and may cause symptoms that can be confused with dementia, such as:
- Normal pressure hydrocephalus (a gradual buildup of spinal fluid in the brain).
- Interactions of medications.
- Depression or another mental health disorder.
- Urinary tract infections.
- Thyroid disease.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Diabetes.
- Alcohol abuse.
- Sleep apnea.
For more information, see “8 Treatable Conditions That Mimic Dementia,” AARP Bulletin, April 2014.
At Rosen & Spears, we encourage patients, and advocates for patients, to request that medical providers fully assess and rule out health conditions that may produce dementia-like symptoms. These conditions often require specific treatment, and resolving that condition may resolve the dementia symptoms, and restore improvement to quality of life.