1. Uncle Qian's Struggle with Dementia: Uncle Qian, aged 78, has been experiencing a decline in his memory for the past two years. He often forgets things and his daily life has become chaotic. Diagnosed with dementia, his condition worsens with each passing day, leaving his daughter heartbroken.

2. Wandering and Retrieving Memories: One day, while his daughter went out to buy groceries, she locked the door and warned Uncle Qian not to wander off.

However, upon returning home, she found the front door wide open, and Uncle Qian was missing. After searching for a day, they found him dirty and disheveled near the elementary school his daughter attended. He believed he had come to pick her up.

3. Alarming Statistics: Globally, there are approximately 55 million dementia patients, with China accounting for around 10 million cases.

Dementia significantly affects the life expectancy of elderly individuals and has become one of the top five causes of death. The prevalence and mortality rates of dementia in China are higher compared to the global average. By 2030, the global number of dementia patients is expected to reach 78 million, and it may rise to 139 million by 2050, highlighting the urgency to address this public health issue.

4. Identifying the Root Cause of Dementia: Dementia, characterized by cognitive decline, includes Alzheimer's disease as the most common form. The disease progresses slowly, often with an undetermined onset. Age plays a significant role, with the risk of developing dementia doubling every 6.3 years.

Dietary habits, cardiovascular diseases, and educational and social factors also contribute to the development of dementia.

5. Recognizing Early Signs of Dementia: Early detection and intervention are crucial as dementia cannot be reversed. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking timely medical attention is essential. Symptoms include memory loss, personality changes, spatial disorientation, difficulty in performing familiar tasks, and problems with communication.

6. Preventive Measures to Reduce Dementia Risk: A report by The Lancet recommends several preventive measures: - Control blood pressure below 130mmHg from the age of 40 onwards. - Minimize hearing impairment. - Reduce exposure to air pollution and secondhand smoke. - Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

- Maintain an active social life and engage in frequent communication. - Prevent head injuries. - Prioritize education. - Manage and control obesity, diabetes, and other related diseases.

Dementia can have a significant impact on the normal lives and lifespans of elderly individuals. It is crucial to be vigilant, observe any changes in behavior, and seek early intervention when symptoms first appear.