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Dementia: Signs, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention

Name: Dementia: Signs, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention
Rating: 4.8 (16 reviews)

Understand, Prevent, and Support Loved Ones Through Every Stage of Dementia

Created byLouistas Nyuyse

Last updated 6/2025

English

What you'll learn

Identify early signs and symptoms of dementia; And Understand how dementia is diagnosed and its common types.
Learn strategies for prevention and early intervention; And Gain confidence in managing dementia at home.
Explore lifestyle, diet, and brain-boosting habits for dementia care
Learn effective caregiver communication and stress management techniques

Course content

8 sections • 40 lectures • 1h 11m total length

What is Dementia? – A Simple Explanation1:51
This lesson introduces dementia as a decline in brain function caused by damage to brain cells. It explains how dementia differs from normal forgetfulness and affects thinking, memory, and behaviour over time.
Dementia vs. Normal Aging – What’s the Difference?1:55
This lesson introduces dementia as a decline in brain function caused by damage to brain cells. It explains how dementia differs from normal forgetfulness and affects thinking, memory, and behaviour over time.
Common Types of Dementia (Alzheimer’s, Vascular, Lewy Body, etc.)2:04
Explore the main types of dementia including Alzheimer's, vascular, Lewy body, and frontotemporal dementia. Each has unique causes and symptoms, which this lesson explains in simple terms.
What Causes Dementia? Genetics, Lifestyle, and Environment1:51
Explore the main types of dementia including Alzheimer's, vascular, Lewy body, and frontotemporal dementia. Each has unique causes and symptoms, which this lesson explains in simple terms.
Real-Life Stories: Spotting the First Signs1:16
Real examples illustrate how families first noticed changes in their loved ones. These stories provide insight into common early symptoms and the importance of early action.
Section 1: Understanding Dementia

Memory Loss: What’s Normal, What’s Not?1:56
Differentiate between harmless forgetfulness and memory loss that may signal dementia. Learn how short-term memory failure presents and why it’s often the first symptom.
Language, Mood, and Behavior Changes You Should Notice1:48
Differentiate between harmless forgetfulness and memory loss that may signal dementia. Learn how short-term memory failure presents and why it’s often the first symptom.
When They Keep Asking the Same Question: A Case Example1:35
Differentiate between harmless forgetfulness and memory loss that may signal dementia. Learn how short-term memory failure presents and why it’s often the first symptom.
Getting a Diagnosis: What Happens at the Doctor’s Office2:12
Understand the steps of the diagnostic process including memory tests, history-taking, and referrals to specialists. This lesson prepares families for what to expect.
Scans, Blood Tests, and Brain Assessments2:09
This lesson explains how doctors use imaging, lab tests, and cognitive assessments to confirm dementia. Learn the value and limits of these tools in diagnosis.
The 7 Stages of Dementia – Explained Simply2:36
Explore the Global Deterioration Scale, from no symptoms to severe cognitive decline. Each stage is explained clearly to help families anticipate care needs.
Signs, Symptoms, and Early Diagnosis

Early Stage: Forgetfulness and Emotional Impact2:00
Discover how early dementia affects memory and mood. The lesson addresses emotional reactions and the importance of planning while the person is still aware.
Middle Stage: Communication and Behaviour Challenges2:18
Middle-stage dementia brings confusion, wandering, and language problems. This lesson offers insight into managing increased dependency and emotional outbursts.
Late Stage: Full-time Support and Palliative Planning2:27
Learn what to expect in the final stage of dementia, including loss of speech and mobility. The focus shifts to comfort care and maintaining dignity.
Can Dementia Be Prevented? What Science Says2:12
Understand the evidence behind risk reduction. This lesson highlights how lifestyle choices in midlife influence brain health later on.
Stages of Dementia

Brain-Healthy Diets: Mediterranean, MIND, and More2:08
Explore diets that support brain function, such as the MIND and Mediterranean diets. The lesson explains which foods promote memory and reduce inflammation.
Daily Habits that Protect Your Brain2:08
Simple habits like physical activity, social contact, sleep, and lifelong learning protect brain health. Learn which daily choices can slow decline.
Social Connections and Dementia Risk2:12
Isolation increases dementia risk. This lesson shows how friendship, family time, and group activities keep the brain stimulated and resilient.
When to Start Preventive Measures – It’s Sooner Than You Think!1:40
Prevention begins in midlife or earlier. This lesson explains why it’s never too early—or too late—to protect your brain.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Home1:52
This lesson gives practical tips for adapting the home to reduce confusion and prevent injury. Focus is placed on lighting, labeling, and consistency.
Prevention and Slowing Progression

Communicating with Compassion and Clarity1:56
Learn how to speak clearly, patiently, and respectfully with someone who has dementia. Strategies include using short sentences and non-verbal cues.
Activities That Stimulate Memory and Joy2:02
Discover how everyday activities like music, puzzles, and storytelling boost mood and memory. This lesson encourages meaningful engagement.
How to Handle Repetition, Aggression, and Confusion2:01
Gain tools to manage some of the most difficult behaviours associated with dementia. The focus is on calm responses and identifying triggers.
Managing Sundowning and Sleep Issues1:57
Late-day confusion and nighttime waking are common in dementia. Learn techniques to reduce sundowning and support better sleep.
Getting Family on the Same Page – Avoiding Conflict1:47
Family disagreements can delay care. This lesson shares tips on communication, shared planning, and respecting different roles in care.
Talking About Power of Attorney and Wills1:54
Legal documents protect the person’s wishes and ensure decision-making rights. The lesson explains when and how to act.
Practical Caregiving Strategies

Understanding Care Costs and Local Support Options1:49
This lesson reviews care expenses and sources of financial help. Learn how to plan ahead and access local support services.
When is a Care Home the Right Option?1:49
Moving a loved one to a care home is emotional. The lesson helps families know when it’s time and how to choose a good facility.
Daily Routines and Journaling for Dementia Support1:44
Structured routines reduce stress for everyone. Learn how to create daily rhythm and track symptoms through journaling.
Using Music, Photos, and Games to Stimulate Memory1:38
These tools tap into preserved parts of the brain. The lesson provides activity ideas that foster joy and connection.
Family Dynamics, Legal & Financial Planning

Tech Tools: Alarms, Apps, and Digital Companions1:42
Technology can simplify care and increase safety. Learn about trackers, reminders, and virtual assistants.
Where to Find Help: Helplines, Charities, and Local Support1:50
Access to support makes the journey easier. This lesson lists where to go for professional, peer, and emotional help.
A Message of Hope, Dignity, and Living With Purpose1:20
Even with dementia, love and purpose remain. This lesson encourages grace, empathy, and focusing on what truly matters.
Global Views and Cultural Perceptions of Dementia2:33
Dementia is seen differently around the world. Learn how cultural beliefs affect diagnosis, stigma, and care strategies.
Global Resources, Animal Companions, and Culturally Sensitive Support2:39
Explore global organisations and the role of pet therapy. The lesson stresses the importance of culturally respectful care.
Tools, Resources, and Final Words of Hope

Caregiver Daily Journal Template0:28
Print and use this journal or download and use it online to map the various care needs, activities, and appointments you need to make with and for your relative.
Dementia Symptom Tracker0:27
Use this tracker to track the activities, symptoms, and progress of the disease.
Memory Activity Ideas Sheet0:27
Here are a number of activities that you can perform with your loved ones who are living with dementia.
Global Dementia Support Directory0:32
This gives you an idea of where you might go for help internationally.
Dementia Course Summary0:32
Summary of content for your download.

Requirements

No prior skills needed. But you need to have the passion for learning about our future capabilities, challenges, and illnesses, and how to spot and prevent them either for ourselves or our relatives and friends.

Description

This course is a comprehensive and practical guide for anyone who wants to understand dementia, recognise its early signs, provide effective care for loved ones, and prevent or delay its progression. Designed for concerned families, early retirees, and younger individuals supporting ageing parents, the course breaks down complex information into simple, relatable lessons.

Over 35 structured lessons, you will explore what dementia is, how it differs from normal ageing, its many types, causes, and symptoms. You will learn how dementia is diagnosed and understand the seven stages of its progression. The course also covers critical topics like daily care routines, emotional support, nutrition, communication, and caregiver self-care. It offers practical strategies to handle common challenges such as aggression, repetition, sundowning, and legal and financial planning.

You’ll also explore global views on dementia, cultural beliefs, support systems, and the role of pets and technology. Whether you're just beginning to ask questions or already deep into a caregiving role, this course equips you with the tools, confidence, and emotional strength to move forward with clarity and hope.

You are not alone. Dementia may change the way we remember, but it cannot erase the love, dignity, and humanity we offer through understanding and care.

Downloadable Course Resources

• Printable Symptom Tracker – A weekly log to record changes in memory, mood, speech, mobility, appetite, sleep, and behaviour. Helps in identifying patterns and sharing accurate information with healthcare professionals.

• Caregiver Daily Journal Template – Simple prompts to note what went well, what was challenging, and how the person with dementia responded to specific care strategies. Encourages reflection and improves communication among caregivers.

• Memory Activity Ideas Sheet – A collection of enjoyable, low-pressure activities including music, storytelling, photo albums, folding tasks, nature walks, and simple crafts to stimulate memory and reduce anxiety.

• Healthy Living Checklist – Diet and lifestyle choices that support brain health, including brain-friendly foods, hydration reminders, exercise tips, social activity prompts, and sleep hygiene practices.

• Global Dementia Support Directory – A list of international and country-specific organisations that provide helplines, care resources, family counselling, and local dementia-friendly programs.

These resources are designed to be printed or filled in digitally, giving caregivers accessible, supportive tools to enhance daily care, communication, and long-term planning.

Use these tools alongside the course content to make practical, informed decisions and improve the quality of life for both you and your loved one living with dementia.

Who this course is for:

This course is for 1). Family members noticing unusual memory or behavior changes. 2) Adults worried about aging loved ones. 3) Young people supporting elderly parents or grandparents. 4) Caregivers, companions, or home aides. 5) And For anyone curious about brain health and prevention

Dementia: Signs, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention

What you'll learn

Explore related topics

Course content

Understanding Dementia5 lectures • 9min

Signs, Symptoms, and Early Diagnosis6 lectures • 12min

Stages of Dementia – What to Expect4 lectures • 9min

Prevention and Slowing Progression5 lectures • 10min

Practical Caregiving Strategies6 lectures • 12min

Family Dynamics, Legal & Financial Planning4 lectures • 7min

Tools, Resources, and Final Words of Hope5 lectures • 10min

Course Resources5 lectures • 2min

Requirements

Description

Who this course is for: