Dementia is a medical condition that affects the cognitive and physical functions of older people. It causes difficulty with memory and problem-solving. This affects the way the patient lives his or her life.The risk of developing dementia increases with age. People who have a family history of the disorder are at an even greater risk. Aside from age, other factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Smoking is also a risk factor for dementia.Cognitive impairment can also occur as a result of medication interactions, nutritional deficiencies, and medical comorbidities. Symptoms of dementia can be mild or severe. Often, it interferes with self-care tasks and prevents the patient from performing them.Medications, like antipsychotics, can cause symptoms that mimic dementia. However, some medications are proven to have a beneficial effect on cognition. Several studies have shown that cholinesterase inhibitors have a positive impact on cognitive functioning.Other risk factors for dementia are smoking, high blood pressure, and head injuries. These factors speed up the degeneration of the nervous system. Moreover, certain brain tumors and vitamin E deficiencies can also increase the risk of dementia.Dementia is a very serious condition that requires immediate attention. Various tests can be used to determine the severity of the condition.  dementia wandering prevention To determine whether a person has dementia, healthcare providers will perform tests to assess his or her cognitive abilities. They will also look for signs of depression.Patients may also be at risk for a condition called mania, which is an episode of impulsivity. When this happens, it can lead to acute confusion, recklessness, and delirium.