Which statement about dementia is accurate?

• A. It is acute and fluctuating
• B. It is chronic and progressive
• C. It is always curable
• D. It never affects memory

Answer: (B)

Dementia is a chronic, progressive brain condition. It develops slowly and the decline in cognitive abilities worsens over time, rather than appearing suddenly or fluctuating day to day. Memory loss is a common and early feature, often accompanied by difficulties with language, problem solving, and managing daily activities, with function declining as the condition advances. There is no cure for most dementias; treatment focuses on managing symptoms, supporting independence, and sometimes modestly slowing progression. The idea that it’s acute and fluctuating describes delirium, not dementia, and the notion that it never involves memory is inaccurate because memory impairment is a hallmark of dementia.