Dementia Assessment and Treatment

What is Dementia?

Cognitive impairment, also known as Dementia in severe form, is a degenerative condition that affects the brain's ability to function. It causes impairment in memory, judgment, language, and even emotions and behaviour. The brain changes that cause these symptoms may occur as early as 20 years before symptoms appear.

Dementia in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, dementia affects around 10% of individuals above 70 years old, and 20-30% among those over 80 years old.

Age of Onset
Dementia primarily affects people aged 65 and over. However, some individuals experience symptoms before this age. These cases are medically referred to as "early-onset dementia". Consider monitoring your cognitive health from age 50 if you have:

A family history of dementia
Chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or stroke

How to Monitor Brain Health?

Periodic cognitive assessments help you recognize early signs of decline, enabling timely treatment that can slow progression. This proactive approach supports both you and your caregivers, helping to maintain your brain health and quality of life.

Our Services

Cognitive Assessments

Are you concerned about dementia? You can take our online self-assessment or contact our healthcare team to arrange a specialist assessment.

Suspect Early Dementia?

Quick Dementia Self-Test

Check Your Risk Here

Need Trusted Guidance?

Specialist Dementia Test

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Common Causes of Dementia

Dementia presents in various forms, each with distinct causes and effects on the brain. Understanding the underlying cause of dementia can assist in understanding the condition and in tailoring appropriate treatment. 

Alzheimer’s Disease 
The most common type accounts for around 65% of cases, caused by the accumulation of harmful amyloid proteins in the brain, which leads to memory loss and diminished self-care abilities.
Vascular Dementia 
The second most prevalent type, accounting for 30% of cases. Typically results from strokes or diminished blood flow to the brain, which causes brain cell damage. 
Other Causes 
Includes conditions such as Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s disease-related dementia, and dementia caused by thyroid issues, vitamin deficiencies, or mental health problems.

Understanding Dementia Symptoms and Stages 

Dementia progresses through stages, each presenting its own unique challenges. Understanding these stages can aid caregivers in better planning for the future. 

How do I know if I have dementia?

If you or a loved one experiences memory loss, confusion about time and place, or difficulty performing everyday tasks, it is crucial to seek an assessment as early as possible. Your doctor may recommend the following tests to confirm a diagnosis:

Cognitive Tests

A health professional will evaluate the patient’s memory, attention, and behaviour using the Hong Kong version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (HK-MoCA). 

Blood Tests

Biomarker testing (e.g. p-Tau 217) can assist in diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease. Other tests, such as thyroid function and vitamin B12 levels, can help rule out other possible causes of dementia. 

Diagnostic Imaging

MRI or CT scans can detect structural changes in the brain. PET scans can detect amyloid plaques, which helps confirm the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. 

What are the Treatment Options? 

Anti-Amyloid Drugs
A new drug approved by the FDA for use in relatively early-stage patients. It works by clearing amyloid plaques from the brain, which can slow down memory decline and delay the deterioration of everyday living skills.
Symptom-Relieving Medications
Cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonists are medications that can help enhance neurotransmission and alleviate symptoms. However, these medications cannot cure the underlying cause of the disease.
Other Medications
Doctors may prescribe other medications to help manage various symptoms that can occur in patients with dementia, such as antidepressants and antipsychotics.
Non-Medication Therapies
In addition to medication, there are many non-drug therapies that can help patients. These include stimulating brain function through various activities, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, providing a supportive environment and care, and engaging in various structured activities.