Which of the following statements is NOT true of patients with dementia?

• A. They usually retain full insight into their cognitive deficits throughout the course of the illness.
• B. Their symptoms may interfere with daily functioning and independence.
• C. They typically experience progressive memory loss and cognitive decline.
• D. Personality changes and mood disturbances can occur as the disease progresses.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of dementia. Dementia is a broad category of brain diseases that cause a long-term and often gradual decrease in the ability to think and remember, affecting daily functioning.
2. Step 2: Review the common symptoms of dementia. These typically include progressive memory loss, cognitive decline, difficulties with daily activities, and changes in personality and mood.
3. Step 3: Analyze the statement about insight into cognitive deficits. Patients with dementia often lose awareness or insight into their cognitive problems as the disease progresses, meaning they do not usually retain full insight throughout the illness.
4. Step 4: Compare each statement to the known characteristics of dementia. Identify which statement contradicts the typical clinical presentation of dementia.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the statement claiming patients retain full insight into their cognitive deficits is NOT true, as this is inconsistent with the progressive nature of dementia.