The Library of the Mind: Understanding Dementia
Dementia is a condition that affects the brain, making it harder for people to remember things, think clearly, decision-making, or taking care of themselves. Overtime, it can get worse and worse since it is an ongoing problem. It can usually affect older adults, but it is not a normal part of aging. Younger people can get dementia as well. It does not just affect the person who has it, but also their family and caregivers. “Estimates vary, but experts report more than 7 million people ages 65 or older had dementia in 2020. If current demographic and health trends continue, more than 9 million Americans could have dementia by 2030 and nearly 12 million by 2040,” (Population Reference Bureau, 2025). Taking care of someone with dementia can be difficult and an emotional process to go through. “When caregivers feel burdened, drained, and disconnected, they are likely to feel frustrated, which may result in critical remarks and hostile attitudes toward their family member with dementia, who...
