An introduction to Dementia

1. Introduction

In this topic we will start to outline what dementia is and how it affects people. This course is presented by The Alzheimer Society of Ireland. We have been working for over 30 years to support people with dementia.

The learning outcomes of this topic of the course are to:

Gain a better understanding of dementia by

• defining dementia
• outlining the different types of dementia
• recognising the different stages and symptoms of dementia

Watching the videos and reading through the course materials in this section should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Participation in the forums will require additional time.

2. Let's Talk About Dementia

Please take a look at this short video. You will meet two people with dementia - Sean and Helen - who speak frankly about how they reacted to and cope with the illness.

This video is availalbe at:

Having viewed the video, now let's pick up on some of the themes in it.

Click on How long have you been caring?  to tell and share your own experience with the group.

In the video Helen and Sean spoke about the importance of 'being open' about their dementia.  Are you comfortable about being open and sharing dementia to family and friends?

Tell us about your own situation in the What approach do you take? activity.

3. Defining Dementia?

Definition: Dementia is a term which describes a number of conditions that cause damage to brain cells. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. There are various types of dementia. It is important to understand that dementia is a progressive condition.

Video available at:

There are several different types of dementia. Let's continue by taking a look at some of them.

4. The different types of dementia (1)

Alzheimer's Disease

Video available at:

Vascular Dementia

Video available at:

Having viewed the videos, can you recognise what type of dementia or dementias your loved one has? Please share your thoughts and experiences in the Recognising Dementia activity.

5. The different types of demetia (2)

Frontotemporal Dementia

Video available at:

Dementia with Lewy Bodies

Video available at:

Again, please feel free to share your views and experiences in the Recognising Dementia activity.

Having looked at some of the different dementias, let's examine some of the main symptoms associated with dementia.

6. Signs and Symptoms of Dementia

Dementia is a progressive condition. The speed of progression varies between individuals. Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia at the moment.

In this section we will outline the various stages a person with dementia may go through on their journey - from the early stages of the illness following diagnosis, to the middle stages, to the later, final stages.

Each stage can usually be recognised through the various symptoms associated with early, middle and late phases of dementia. However, it is important to state that this is not always possible, as different individuals react in different ways to the illness.

This video is available to watch at:

Having watched the Video Presentation above, can you describe the signs and symptoms of dementia you have seen in your loved one? Thank you.

7. Optional Additional Resources

Here are some optional extra resources for you to explore.  

Alzheimer Society UK: YouTube Channel

Video Resources from The Alzheimer Society UK

Publications and Resources Alzheimer Society of Ireland

Including Early Symptoms and Diagnosis, Living With Dementia, an Introduction for Families and Who's who in Dementia Care.

Dementia in Ireland: Infographics

This set of Infographics produced by The Alzheimer Society of Ireland visually illustrates key facts about dementia in Ireland today.

That is the end of An Introduction to Dementia book. 

You can download and print the book. Just scroll down to the Administration Block on the left hand side of the Moodle page and follow the instructions.