Which statement describes dementia?

Which statement describes dementia?

• A. Onset is gradual and impairment is typically irreversible
• B. Onset is sudden and fully reversible
• C. Onset is gradual but fully reversible
• D. Onset is acute and fluctuating

Answer: (A)

Dementia is a chronic, progressive cognitive disorder marked by a gradual onset and a persistent, typically irreversible decline in memory, thinking, and daily function. This slow emergence of symptoms and the progressive nature of impairment distinguish it from conditions with sudden onset. While delirium can have an abrupt start and fluctuating attention and is often reversible if the underlying cause is addressed, dementia follows a steady course that, to date, is not curable. So the description of gradual onset with irreversible impairment best fits dementia.

Dementia is a chronic, progressive cognitive disorder marked by a gradual onset and a persistent, typically irreversible decline in memory, thinking, and daily function. This slow emergence of symptoms and the progressive nature of impairment distinguish it from conditions with sudden onset. While delirium can have an abrupt start and fluctuating attention and is often reversible if the underlying cause is addressed, dementia follows a steady course that, to date, is not curable. So the description of gradual onset with irreversible impairment best fits dementia.