Your first visit starts with a detailed history and a cognitive screening test to understand which areas of memory and thinking are affected. Depending on what this shows, Dr Zhao may order further tests – such as brain imaging or blood tests – to identify the underlying cause and rule out reversible conditions. You’ll leave the first consultation with a clear diagnostic plan and, where appropriate, an initial management strategy.
Dr. Zhao Yi Jing is one of Singapore’s most trusted dementia specialists, who respects a patient-centered approach toward the treatment of dementia. She designs custom care plans tailored to suit the needs of every patient individually. With creating highly personalized care plans for each patient already at the top of her interests, Dr. Zhao Yi Jing seeks further ways to ensure every patient has the most appropriate level of treatment possible for them.
The holistic approach Dr. Zhao adopts toward the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease comprises not only the medical line of treatment but also the emotional support given to patients and their families. Her commitment to staying at the forefront of dementia care in Singapore has won her a reputation for being a leader in the field.
Dementia is a general term used to describe symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and social abilities to the extent that it interferes with a person’s daily activities. Dementia is not a specific disease, but rather a syndrome that can be caused many different underlying conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementia, vascular dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, amongst many others.
The symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the underlying cause, but typical symptoms include memory loss, difficulty with language, problems with attention and concentration, impaired judgment and decision-making, and changes in mood and behavior. Dementia is most commonly seen in older adults, but it can also affect younger people. The risk of developing dementia increases with age, and certain factors such as genetics, high blood pressure, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also increase the risk.
As dementia progresses, it can lead to the loss of independence and increased need for assistance with activities of one’s daily living. There is currently no cure for dementia, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. It is important to seek medical attention if you or a loved one is experiencing memory problems or other symptoms of dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all causes of dementia. It is a progressive and irreversible neurological disorder that affects cognitive function, memory, and behavior.
The disease is caused by the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain, which can lead to death of brain cells and the gradual loss of brain function. The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease typically begin with mild short-term memory loss, but as the disease progresses, individuals may experience more significant memory impairment, as well as difficulty with language, problem-solving, and performing familiar tasks. They may also experience changes in personality and behavior, such as depression, anxiety, agitation, and social withdrawal.
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but there are medications that can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and social engagement may also help reduce the risk of developing the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can also help improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their families.
Early signs of dementia go beyond ordinary forgetfulness: memory lapses that disrupt daily routines, difficulty completing familiar tasks, getting confused about time or place, struggling to find the right words, and noticeable changes in mood or personality. A single forgetful moment is not a cause for concern – a pattern that develops or worsens over several months is what warrants a proper evaluation.
While there is no definite ways to prevent dementia, research suggests that certain lifestyle choices may help lower your risk or delay the onset of cognitive decline.
Here are some general advice that are commonly given to patients to reduce the risk of dementia onset or progression:
While there is no guaranteed method for preventing dementia, adopting a healthy lifestyle and addressing risk factors can help maintain brain health and potentially reduce the risk of cognitive decline. If you have concerns about your cognitive health, consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
A: Dementia is a general term for a set of symptoms – memory loss, impaired thinking, and reduced social ability – severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common underlying cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases, but other causes include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
A: Early signs typically include short-term memory lapses beyond normal ageing, difficulty completing familiar tasks, confusion about time or place, and word-finding difficulty. A single episode of forgetfulness is not diagnostic; a pattern that worsens over months warrants evaluation.
A: There is currently no cure for most causes of dementia, but medications and structured lifestyle management can slow symptom progression and improve quality of life for a meaningful period. Some causes of cognitive decline (for example, vitamin deficiencies or thyroid dysfunction) are reversible if identified early, which is why a proper diagnostic work-up matters.
A: A Clinical Neurologist can perform the cognitive assessment, order relevant investigations (including brain imaging where indicated), and confirm a diagnosis. Zhao Neurology & Headache Clinic, based at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, offers this evaluation.
Dr Zhao is a Clinical Neurologist trained at Singapore General Hospital and the National Neuroscience Institute — read more on the About page.
Dr Zhao Yi Jing was cited in a CNA report on the Oxford University vaccine and dementia study, discussing prevention strategies for Singaporeans
Dr Zhao Yi Jing was featured in CNA Lifestyle on the elevated dementia risk factors for women, including heart disease and sleep deprivation.
Dr Zhao Yi Jing was featured in Business World Online discussing her progressive care approach for dementia patients.
