IntroductionThis assignment critically discusses dementia, a widespread disability among today's elderly. Provides an introduction to dementia and analyzes its prevalence in society. The various forms of dementia are elaborated with the description of the dysfunctions and symptoms. Nursing assessment and interventions are provided in subsequent sections that discuss actions nurses should take when assessing patients and treating them. Finally, communication, an important activity of daily living (ADL), is explored and patient/caregiver advice is presented to maintain good health in the patient. Dementia Analysis According to (Miller, 2009), dementia is the most accurate expression that illustrates the development of cognitive impairment. ¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬It exemplifies the various brain anarchies that ultimately lead to severe brain dysfunction (Alzheimer Australia, 2011). Dementia is the leading cause of disability in older adults in Australia, accounting for 17% of cases (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2004). The best-known forms of this disease are Alzheimer's disease (AD), vascular dementia (VD), frontotemporal dementia (FD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). This usually occurs in older adults over the age of 65; however, it is a disability and not a normal symptom of aging. There are possibilities of inheritance, but it depends on the individual and the type of dementia (Alzheimer Australia, 2011). The Global Deterioration Scale provides a detailed explanation regarding the seven stages of cognitive decline in dementia (Alzheimer's Association of Canada, 2005). Types of Dementia There are four main types of dementia, of which AD is the most common form. Ac...... middle of paper...... Interventions (1st ed). London, UK: Jessica Kingsley.Miller, CA (2009). Nursing for well-being in older adults: Theory and practice (5th ed.). Cleveland, Ohio: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (2011). National Institutes of Health. Retrieved [April 18, 2011] from http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/picks/picks.htm.Person Directed Dementia Care Assessment Tool (2006). The Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services. Retrieved [April 18, 2011] from http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/aging/Genage/Pubs/pde0084.pdf Taylor, C., Dening, K., Duncan, A., & Kendall, T. (2009 ). Therapeutic interventions in dementia. Retrieved [April 18, 2011] from http://www.nursingtimes.net/nursing-practice-clinical-research/therapeutic-interventions-in-dementia-part-1-cognitive-symptoms-and-function/1961703.article