Understanding the Epidemic of Dementia

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a symptom, not a disease. The word “dementia” is related to words associated with the mind and mental function.  Dementia is an umbrella term that refers to various kinds of serious mental decline. It can also be referred to as serious cognitive decline. The word “cognition” refers to our abilities to think, remember and reason.

Medical understanding continues to grow. What we think of as “facts” today may be refined tomorrow. This article is not meant to alarm, but to encourage thoughtful learning, prayer and compassion. Early and accurate diagnosis can be very helpful, and in some cases cognitive decline may be slowed—or even improved—once underlying causes are identified.

Almost all people experience increasing problems with remembering as they get older, especially as they advance through their 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. The majority of the elderly will never get serious dementia. But if you suspect a more serious problem, please seek an examination and diagnosis.

Special Honor for the Elderly and Vulnerable

Whether an older person is simply having a normal “senior moment” or is developing serious dementia, we must remember the Bible’s emphasis on showing respect for all people and especially the elderly (see Leviticus 19:32; 1 Timothy 5:1). Let’s prayerfully be prepared for how we can be respectful, patient, friendly, encouraging, wise and loving to them and everyone.

Likewise, treat family caregivers and other family members with kindness. The companions of the struggling person may feel exhausted, isolated or even ashamed when they don’t know how others will react. A kind word, listening ear, or simple offer of help can make a profound difference.

It is important not to assume that dementia is the result of negligence towards one’s health. Practice godly love and the Golden Rule! Jesus said, “Therefore be merciful, just as your Father is also merciful” (Luke 6:36). There are many factors that can contribute to dementia, some of which are out of our control, including the genetics that we inherit. 

The Importance—and Wonder—of the Brain

The brain controls all the other organs and functions in the human body! With more than 86 billion neurons and countless connections, it is far more complex than any machine humans have created. Brain activity is made possible by the communications between those neurons. When brain cells are damaged or lost, cognitive abilities can change. This is why many forms of dementia are progressive and difficult to reverse.

When we understand the Bible we have a deeper appreciation of the amazing human mind! We know that the human mind is the combination of the physical brain and the spirit of man, which we also refer to as the human spirit (Zechariah 12:1, Job 32:8, Isaiah 42:5). That is what greatly elevates us from all other physical creatures! (Job 35:11). This is what enables us to have wisdom and understanding of “the things of a man” (Job 38:36, 39:17; 1 Corinthians 2:11). When a person dies, this human spirit goes back to God for his precious safekeeping until the time for his resurrection (Ecclesiastes 3:21, 8:8, 12:5-7, Job 34:14-15, Luke 23:46). 

When a person receives the gift of the Holy Spirit, the Holy Spirit combines with the human spirit to make a new child of God (Romans 8:16-17)! When a converted person dies, it is the combination of the human spirit and the Holy Spirit that goes back to God.

The word “brain” is not in most versions of the Bible, but the word “mind” appears 90 times in the New King James Version, and the word “heart” (which does not refer to the physical organ that pumps blood) appears 836 times! 

When a faithful believer develops dementia, it is natural to wonder how God views their spiritual state. We can take comfort believing that He judges the person primarily by the spiritual character and devotion they demonstrated prior to the onset of dementia. God is very, very loving and merciful! He truly desires to save everyone! (1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9). 

Dementia: Widespread and Heartbreaking

Dementia has become one of the leading causes of death worldwide, but statistics tell only part of the story.

When someone is experiencing the progression of dementia, it is heartbreaking for the family! Day-to-day responsibilities fall on the shoulders of one spouse or another close family member. They miss the companionship, support and encouragement they used to share with the loved one. Caretakers may feel overwhelmed, isolated, lonely and sometimes depressed or angry. Gradually losing a loved one with terminal dementia often brings prolonged grief, what many describe as “the long goodbye.” 

For family caregivers, we recommend two recent articles titled, “Care About the Caregivers” and “Family Caregivers, Please Take Good Care of Yourselves!” 

Let’s continue to pray for those with serious health problems, their caregivers and their family members!

Learning, Preventing and Supporting

Education helps us respond wisely. There is a growing body of research about brain health, prevention strategies, and caregiving support.

If you suspect that you or a family member is progressing from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to serious cognitive decline, it is important to get medical exams because there are sometimes valuable action steps that one can take to significantly slow down the mental decline and sometimes even achieve improvements. 

Why are more and more people afflicted with various forms of dementia? From a biblical perspective, we recognize that we live in a world still under the influence of Satan the devil, “the ruler of this world” (John 12:31; Revelation 9:11). Additionally, people are living longer, increasing overall risk. There are also many other contributing factors.

Why learn about dementia? First, “prevention is the best cure!” Scripture tells us, “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself” (Proverbs 22:3). While this article does not attempt to provide specific medical advice, we encourage striving for a healthy lifestyle and learning how to best care for the body God has given us. 

Secondly, we must remain aware that family members, caregivers and friends need our friendship, support and prayers! We do the best we can with the knowledge and strength we have, trusting God with what lies beyond our control. 

Common Experiences in Dementia

A problem with memory is the most well-known symptom of dementia, and is often the first evidence of cognitive impairment. Besides a decline in short-term and long-term memory, there are many other common symptoms depending of the type of dementia. They include various kinds of confusion and changes in judgment, recognition, behavior, emotions and personality. There can be increasing difficulties with speaking, physical coordination (including walking and swallowing), sleep and impulse control. 

Mood changes can include depression, anxiety and aggression. Some individuals experience delusions, paranoia or hallucinations, all of which can result in wandering. Although these behaviors can be extremely challenging, it is important to remember that they are symptoms of illness—not deliberate choices or character flaws. Responding with calm reassurance helps preserve dignity and peace.

Types and Causes of Dementia

Dementia is much more common among older adults, affecting up to 4 in 10 people over the age of 55. Sadly, there has also been an increase in early-onset-dementia among younger individuals.

The human body is highly interconnected, and a health problem in another part of the body often affects the brain. In general, better overall health reduces the likelihood of severe cognitive decline.

The brain has several specialized parts. The type of one’s dementia depends on the location of the problems. The brain usually works amazingly well, but there are many things that can go wrong.

The most common causes of dementia are Alzheimer’s Disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body disease and frontotemporal dementia.

Although brain diseases are the most common causes, dementia can also result from other factors, including environmental chemical exposure. Additional contributors include head injuries, medication side effects, poisoning, excessive alcohol use, smoking, substance abuse, obesity, thyroid or kidney problems, high blood pressure, inflammation, chronic stress, and neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s. “Mixed dementia,” involving more than one type, is also common. 

While knowing the causes can be helpful in preventing dementia, it is important to avoid making assumptions about someone else’s health. Our role as loved ones is to show care and compassion, not to assign blame.

A Balanced Perspective

We desire healthy bodies and minds for as long as possible. Scripture encourages wisdom, foresight and stewardship. At the same time, health is not a measure of righteousness, and illness is not evidence of spiritual failure. 

Pray for God’s guidance, do your own research, and make informed decisions. Do the best you can take good care of yourself and your family—but also extend grace to yourself and others when human limits are reached.

In Summary

God desires our wellbeing—physically, mentally and spiritually (3 John 1:2). Although God wants us to have a “right mind” and a “sound mind” (Luke 8:35; 2 Timothy 1:7), He is merciful toward our human frailty (Psalm 103:14).

As we look forward to the return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of His Kingdom let us:

• Care for our bodies and minds wisely.
• Honor and protect the dignity of those with dementia.
• Support caregivers with empathy and prayer.
• Trust God’s mercy for all who suffer.

Above all, let us remember that love remains—even when memory fades.