What is senile dementia?
An elderly person with senile dementia slowly loses brain function, resulting in difficulties with behavior, communication, learning, and memory. Common causes of senile dementia include Alzheimer's disease, alcoholism, atherosclerosis, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, stroke, and a medication side effect. About 10 percent of people over the age of 65 have some form of dementia.

What are the symptoms of senile dementia?
Symptoms of senile dementia include anxiety, apathy, difficulty communicating, difficulty concentrating, insomnia, memory loss, poor judgement, and confusion. Symptoms of senile dementia worsen over time.

How does the doctor treat senile dementia?
Treatment for senile dementia may include a healthy diet, adult day care, and medications that help control symptoms and improve brain function.