[Stitcher]

At what point does one need to consider the possibility of the beginnings of dementia?

Is it the lose of complex thinking?
Is it the lose of the ability to grasp thoughts to speak on the spot?
Is it both?

Where does it begin?

[Stitcher]

double post

[jeanb]

This is too close for comfort for me. Dad has Alzheimer's. I have PD.

[chasmo]

I think dementia is when you lose touch with reality. I have, as many of us do, short term memory problems. I forget peoples names etc.
The good news is rereading a book is like reading it for the first time!!
DO I think I am in the early stages of dementia? Absolutely not! nor are CArolyn and Jean.

[Soania]

Dementia is defined as the "loss of multiple acquired cognitive and emotional abilities sufficient to interfere with daily activities". More than 50 diseases produce dementia (Alzheimer's account for 70%, prevalence in PD is 20 - 30%).
Dementia varies in its specific presentation depending on which particular abilities are compromised. Disabilities can occur in memory, language, spatial perception, cognition, attention, high-level motor control, emotion, and motivation. The key is how it adversely affects daily functioning.
In PD it's often difficult to tell because of the possibility of co-morbid Alzheimer's (both increase with age) and the cognitive effect of anti-parkinsonian treatment.
Difficult condition...

[Stitcher]

Charlie, I am like you about books. I can read them, but a month later if asked about a book I read...nothing...not even the plot. I can read instruction or the printed directions to a location, but I have to read and re-read them over and over again and still I don't get it! Nothing sticks in my head!

Soania, I know the definition, but thanks for the reminder. And welcome to the board.

Sometimes I think it is just the mental health meds I take (..100mg Nortriptyline and 200mg of generic Lamictal,) but sometimes I become extremely concerned about the slow approach of dementia...and there are several kinds.