Alcoholic dementia is a condition where long-term alcohol abuse causes damage to the brain, resulting in cognitive decline and dementia. It typically occurs at an earlier age than other forms of dementia, often starting in the mid-60s, and affects more men than women, although women may experience more severe symptoms.
Unlike age-related dementia, which typically begins with memory loss and forgetfulness, alcoholic dementia usually presents with personality changes and abnormal behavior. This is because the frontal lobe of the brain, which is responsible for impulse control, judgment, and motivation, is particularly affected by alcohol-related damage.