Dementia: The Hidden Epidemic in Our Aging Population - What Every Family Needs to Know About Prevention and Reversal

Picture this: you're chatting with your beloved grandfather about memories from his childhood, sharing stories that have bound your family together for generations. Or imagine your vibrant mother, who once organized every family gathering and remembered every birthday, now struggling to recognize familiar faces. These heartbreaking moments—when the people we love most begin to slip away mentally while still physically present—represent one of the most devastating experiences a family can face.

At Arbor Health Functional Medicine & Psychiatry, we've witnessed both the crushing impact of dementia and the incredible hope that comes with understanding this condition differently. We've seen families who were told "there's nothing that can be done" discover that cognitive decline isn't an inevitable part of aging—and that meaningful improvement is possible when we address the root causes.

Dementia touches nearly every family in some way, yet most people don't understand that someone in the world develops dementia every 3 seconds, or that there were 57 million people worldwide living with dementia in 2021. What's even more concerning is that conventional medicine often treats dementia as an untreatable, inevitable decline. But what if we told you there's another way to approach this challenge—one that looks at dementia not as a mysterious brain disorder, but as a preventable and often reversible condition when caught early and addressed comprehensively?

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a syndrome that can be caused by a number of diseases which over time destroy nerve cells and damage the brain, typically leading to deterioration in cognitive function. Unlike normal age-related memory changes, dementia entails a decline in mental function from a previously higher level that's severe enough to interfere with daily living.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form and may contribute to 60–70% of cases, but dementia isn't just one disease—it's an umbrella term that encompasses various conditions affecting memory, thinking, problem-solving, and other cognitive abilities.

The statistics are staggering: this number will almost double every 20 years, reaching 78 million in 2030 and 139 million in 2050. The annual global cost of dementia is now above $1.3 trillion and is expected to rise to $2.8 trillion by 2030. In our Rochester area community, these numbers translate to families watching loved ones struggle with a condition that conventional medicine says has no cure.

The Invisible Dementia Threat: Understanding Risk Factors in Our Finger Lakes Community

Dementia poses a serious health risk that many in our local community underestimate. What makes this condition particularly concerning is that research shows that most people currently living with dementia have not received a formal diagnosis. In high income countries, only 20-50% of dementia cases are recognized and documented in primary care.

The challenge lies in recognizing early warning signs. Changes in mood and behavior sometimes happen even before memory problems occur. Many families dismiss these early symptoms as "normal aging," missing crucial opportunities for early intervention when treatments are most effective.

Beyond Memory Loss: How Do I Know If I Have Dementia?

Dementia symptoms extend far beyond occasional forgetfulness. Dementia is a general term for memory loss, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Understanding what to look for can make all the difference in early detection and treatment success.

Early Signs of Cognitive Decline (Months to Years Before Diagnosis)

Memory problems that affect daily activities

Difficulty planning or solving problems

Confusion about time or place

Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

Problems with words in speaking or writing

Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

Decreased or poor judgment

Withdrawal from work or social activities

Changes in mood and personality

Progressive Dementia Symptoms (As Condition Advances)

Severe memory loss

Difficulty communicating

Poor judgment and reasoning

Inappropriate behavior

Agitation, anxiety, and depression

Hallucinations and delusions

Sleep disturbances

Wandering and getting lost

Difficulty with basic activities of daily living

Advanced Dementia Symptoms

Inability to recognize family and friends

Loss of bladder and bowel control

Difficulty eating and swallowing

Increased vulnerability to infections

Complete dependence on caregivers

Dementia affects each person in a different way, depending upon the underlying causes, other health conditions, and the person's cognitive functioning before becoming ill. If you're experiencing any combination of these symptoms—especially if they interfere with daily life—it's important to consult with a healthcare provider knowledgeable about Functional Medicine approaches to dementia.

The Complicated Reality of Dementia: Multiple Root Causes and Testing Challenges

What many people don't realize is that dementia rarely has a single cause. Alzheimer's disease is a multi-factorial disease, and it is rarely due to just one thing. In order to reverse dementia, we must identify and treat all of the factors that contribute: metabolic, nutritional, toxic, inflammatory, infectious, autoimmune, and/or withdrawal of trophic support (like hormones and nutrients).

The Dementia Testing Dilemma

Standard dementia testing available through most primary care offices and hospitals has significant limitations:

Limited scope: Conventional testing often only looks for irreversible causes

Late detection: Most testing occurs after significant brain damage has already occurred

Missing reversible causes: Many causes of dementia are reversible and easily missed

Lack of functional assessment: Standard testing doesn't evaluate the multiple body systems that contribute to brain health

For more comprehensive evaluation, Arbor Health uses advanced Functional Medicine lab tests that identify reversible causes and underlying imbalances contributing to cognitive decline.

Advanced Functional Medicine Testing for Dementia

Blood tests and other biomarkers are helpful in the work-up of dementia. They can help identify possible reversible etiologies and areas in which a person may be at higher risk.

Comprehensive testing may include:

Nutrient deficiency assessment: Common nutrient deficiencies are associated with several reversible causes of dementia. These include essential B Vitamins like B12, B9, and B1.

Hormone evaluation: Insufficient levels of hormones can contribute to dementia. In post-menopausal women, studies have found an association between low estrogen and progesterone states and the onset of Alzheimer’s Dementia.

Inflammatory markers: Testing for systemic inflammation that damages brain tissue.

Toxin exposure assessment: Heavy metals and environmental toxins that impair brain function.

Infectious disease screening: Hidden infections that create neuroinflammation.

Gut health analysis: The health of the microbiome is associated with the health of the brain and nervous system.

Genetic risk assessment: Understanding genetic predisposition while focusing on modifiable factors.

Reversible Causes of Dementia: Hope for Families

One of the most empowering aspects of Functional Medicine is recognizing that many causes of cognitive decline are reversible. In the research, the most frequently observed potentially reversible conditions identified in patients with cognitive impairment or dementia include:

Depression

Adverse effects of drugs

Drug or alcohol abuse, space-occupying lesions, normal pressure hydrocephalus (a condition where cerebrospinal fluid builds up inside your skull and presses on the brain)

Metabolic and endocrinal conditions (like hypothyroidism and nutritional conditions like vitamin B-12 deficiency)

Common Reversible Root Causes of Dementia Include:

Nutritional Deficiencies

Vitamin B12, B9 (folate), and B1 (thiamine) deficiencies

Vitamin D deficiency

Omega-3 fatty acid insufficiency

Hormonal Imbalances

Thyroid dysfunction

Adrenal insufficiency

Sex hormone deficiencies

Medications

Anticholinergic drugs like Benadryl have been linked to an increased risk of dementia

Statin medications like Lipitor deplete coenzyme Q10, an important antioxidant needed for mitochondrial health and energy production

Infections

Chronic bacterial, viral, or fungal infections

Lyme disease and co-infections

Dental infections

Toxin Exposure

Heavy metals (lead, mercury, aluminum)

Mold toxins

Environmental chemicals

Metabolic Disorders

Insulin resistance and diabetes

Sleep disorders

Cardiovascular disease

Understanding these reversible causes is essential for developing an effective treatment approach that goes beyond simply managing symptoms.

Common Myths and Misconceptions About Dementia

Several persistent myths about dementia can delay proper diagnosis and treatment:

Myth 1: "Dementia is a normal part of aging."

Reality: It is important to know that cognitive impairment is not a normal part of aging. While some memory changes occur with age, significant cognitive decline that interferes with daily life is not inevitable.

Myth 2: "There's nothing you can do about dementia."

Reality: Functional Medicine approaches have shown remarkable success in preventing and even reversing cognitive decline when caught early and addressed comprehensively.

Myth 3: "If you have the Alzheimer's gene, you'll definitely get the disease."

Reality: APOE (the Alzheimer’s gene) comes in several forms, called alleles (e.g., ε2, ε3). APOE ε2 may provide some protection against the disease. Even having genetic risk factors doesn't guarantee disease development—lifestyle and environmental factors play crucial roles.

Myth 4: "Cognitive decline can't be reversed."

Reality: The good news is you can reverse dementia and cognitive decline when the right Functional Medicine approach is applied to address root causes. Neurofeedback brain training can be especially helpful to rewire neural pathways and optimize brain function.

Myth 5: "Memory loss always means dementia."

Reality: There are many causes of memory loss. Memory loss alone doesn't necessarily confirm a diagnosis of dementia.

Myth 6: "Diet doesn't affect brain health."

Reality: Many studies suggest that what we eat affects the aging brain's ability to think and remember.

Dementia Prevention: Your Best Defense Through Functional Medicine

While effective treatments exist for addressing dementia, preventing cognitive decline remains your strongest protection. The Functional Medicine approach to prevention focuses on optimizing all the factors that support brain health.

The MIND Diet: Scientifically Proven Brain Protection

The Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, or MIND diet, targets the health of the aging brain. Research shows remarkable results: Researchers found a 53% lower rate of Alzheimer's disease for those with the highest MIND diet scores.

Brain-Healthy Foods to Emphasize:

Leafy green vegetables (7+ servings per week)

Berries, especially blueberries and strawberries

Nuts, particularly walnuts

Olive oil as primary cooking fat

Fish and seafood

Whole grains

Legumes and beans

Foods to Limit:

Processed foods and refined sugars

Red meat and processed meats

Fried foods

High-saturated fat dairy products

People who follow a MIND diet, even if started later in life, were significantly less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease or related forms of dementia. This means it's never too late to start protecting your brain through nutrition.

Neurofeedback: Training Your Brain for Optimal Function

One of the most exciting advances in cognitive enhancement is neurofeedback therapy—a non-invasive, evidence-based treatment that literally trains your brain to function more efficiently. At Arbor Health, neurofeedback is an integral part of our comprehensive approach to preventing and reversing cognitive decline.

What is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback, uses real-time monitoring of brainwave activity to teach your brain to self-regulate and optimize its function. During sessions, sensors placed on your scalp measure electrical activity in your brain, providing immediate feedback that helps you learn to produce healthier brainwave patterns.

How Neurofeedback Supports Brain Health:

Neuroplasticity Enhancement: Promotes the brain's ability to form new neural connections and pathways

Cognitive Function Improvement: Enhances attention, memory, processing speed, and executive function

Stress Reduction: Helps regulate the nervous system and reduce cortisol levels that damage brain tissue

Sleep Optimization: Improves sleep quality, which is crucial for memory consolidation and brain detoxification

Anxiety and Depression Relief: Addresses mood issues that often accompany or contribute to cognitive decline

The Science Behind Neurofeedback for Dementia

Research shows that Neurofeedback can be particularly beneficial for cognitive health:

Increased Alpha Waves: Associated with relaxed alertness and improved cognitive function

Enhanced Beta Activity: Supports focus, attention, and problem-solving abilities

Improved Theta Regulation: Helps with memory formation and emotional regulation

Better Gamma Synchronization: Linked to higher-level cognitive processing and consciousness

BrainCore Neurofeedback at Arbor Health

Our BrainCore Neurofeedback protocols are specifically designed to support brain health and cognitive function:

Personalized Protocols: Based on your initial brain mapping (qEEG) assessment

Targeted Training: Focuses on brain regions most affected by cognitive decline

Progressive Sessions: Typically 20-40 sessions for optimal neuroplastic changes

Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous assessment and protocol adjustments

Integration with Other Therapies: Combined with nutritional and lifestyle interventions

The Power of Neuroplasticity

The brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections—neuroplasticity—doesn't end in childhood. Through targeted interventions like Neurofeedback, proper nutrition, and cognitive challenges, we can actively promote brain healing and regeneration throughout life. This understanding is fundamental to why Functional Medicine approaches to dementia can be so successful.

Physical Exercise Regular physical activity supports brain health by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and promoting the growth of new brain cells.

Mental Stimulation Engaging in cognitively challenging activities builds cognitive reserve and may delay the onset of symptoms.

Quality Sleep Adequate sleep and reducing repeated exposures to pollutants may affect cognitive health.

Social Connection Participating in physical, cognitive-related (e.g., reading books, playing games, puzzles, etc.), and social activities help reduce risk of dementia.

Stress Management Chronic stress damages the brain through elevated cortisol levels and inflammation. Neurofeedback can be particularly effective for stress regulation and nervous system optimization.

The Functional Medicine Approach to Dementia

A Functional Medicine approach to dementia involves looking downstream to identify the root causes of dementia and how we can aim to prevent disease onset or, once established, focus on supporting the individual to reduce symptoms and, hopefully, disease progression.

Comprehensive Assessment for Dementia Symptoms

Our Functional Medicine approach begins with understanding each patient's unique story:

Detailed Health History

Family history and genetic factors

Environmental exposures

Medication history

Lifestyle factors

Stress and trauma history

Advanced Laboratory Testing

Comprehensive metabolic panels

Nutrient status assessment

Hormone evaluation

Inflammatory markers

Toxin screening

Genetic testing when appropriate

Cognitive Assessment

qEEG Brain Map for Neurofeedback protocol development

Phased Treatment Approach

Functional Medicine recognizes that healing occurs in phases:

Stabilization: Addressing immediate safety concerns and symptom management
Foundation Building: Optimizing nutrition, sleep, basic metabolic function, and beginning neurofeedback training
Root Cause Treatment: Targeting specific imbalances and deficiencies
Optimization: Fine-tuning treatments for maximum cognitive function, including advanced Neurofeedback protocols
Maintenance: Long-term strategies for continued brain health

Your Expert Guides in Dementia Prevention and Treatment

Dementia is a complex condition that affects multiple body systems and often involves numerous contributing factors. While conventional approaches focus primarily on symptom management, Arbor Health Functional Medicine & Psychiatry offers a comprehensive strategy that addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying imbalances that contribute to cognitive decline.

Key aspects of our approach include:

Comprehensive testing that identifies reversible causes and contributing factors

Recognition of multiple root causes rather than a single-disease model

Personalized treatment protocols based on each patient's unique presentation

A phased approach that supports the body's natural healing processes

Addressing all contributing factors: inflammation, toxins, infections, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal imbalances

Family education and support throughout the healing journey

For patients experiencing cognitive decline or those seeking to prevent dementia, we offer hope through our systems-oriented, root-cause focus. By combining the best of conventional and holistic medicine, this approach aims to restore optimal brain function rather than simply managing decline.

By incorporating a Functional Medicine approach of a healthy diet, lifestyle choices, and understanding your unique biomarkers, you have an opportunity to prevent a diagnosis of dementia or reverse a process that may already be at play.

The Time to Act is Now

If you're concerned about cognitive changes in yourself or a loved one, or if you want to take proactive steps to protect your brain health, working with a Functional Medicine practitioner experienced in cognitive health can help you navigate the journey toward optimal brain function and create a personalized plan based on your unique needs.

Remember: Early detection and proper treatment offer the best chance for preventing or reversing cognitive decline. Don't wait to seek help if you're experiencing concerning symptoms—your brain health is worth protecting.

Explore our approach to Clinical Program for Cognitive Decline today.

Sources:

World Health Organization. (2025). Dementia Fact Sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia

Alzheimer's Disease International. (2025). Dementia Statistics. https://www.alzint.org/about/dementia-facts-figures/dementia-statistics/

Rupa Health. (2025). A Functional Medicine Approach to Dementia. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/a-functional-medicine-approach-to-dementia

Toups, K. (2025). Dementia Demystified: A Functional Medicine Approach to Reversing Cognitive Decline. International Online Medical Council. https://www.iomcworld.org/proceedings/dementia-demystified-a-functional-medicine-approach-to-reversing-cognitive-decline-and-dementia-50146.html

National Institute on Aging. (2025). What Do We Know About Diet and Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease? https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-and-dementia/what-do-we-know-about-diet-and-prevention-alzheimers-disease

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2024). MIND Diet. https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/healthy-weight/diet-reviews/mind-diet/

The Institute for Functional Medicine. (2025). Nutrition: A Key Modulator of Cognitive Health. https://www.ifm.org/articles/nutrition-cognitive-health

Cleveland Clinic. (2025). Dementia: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Types. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9170-dementia

PMC. (2025). Reversible Dementias. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3038529/

Rao, Rammohan et al. (2021) ReCODE: A Personalized, Targeted, Multi-Factorial Therapeutic Program for Reversal of Cognitive Decline. Biomedicines. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8533598/

This website has been created to provide information about functional health care services and is for general informational purposes regarding functional health care that should never be construed as medical advice for any person, including patients of the Practice. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.