What is dementia?

Dementia is a term that describes a range of cognitive impairments characterized by the decline in memory, thinking skills, and the ability to perform everyday activities. It typically results from progressive changes in the brain, which can come from a variety of causes, including diseases such as Alzheimer's, vascular issues, or other neurological conditions. This decline affects not only memory but also social functions, impacting a person's ability to communicate, reason, and carry out daily tasks.

The understanding of dementia being related to "the loss of cognitive and social function due to brain changes" encompasses the comprehensive nature of the disorder, as it highlights that cognitive decline is a significant aspect, but so is the impact on social interactions and relationships. This dual aspect is crucial in understanding how dementia affects individuals and their caregivers.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent dementia's characteristics. A temporary memory lapse does not capture the chronic and progressive nature of dementia. Enhancing cognitive function contradicts the definition since dementia leads to a decline in cognitive capabilities. Finally, a mild reduction in cognitive ability would be more indicative of conditions like "mild cognitive impairment" rather than dementia, which entails a more severe and impactful set of symptoms.