History of Senile Dementia from the Antiquity to the Beginning of the Modern Age.

Abstract

Aim: This study aims, to trace the history of age-associated dementia from the earliest historical periods to the beginning of the modern age.

Background: Since the medical literature prior to the early 19th century is relatively scarce, the near absence of senile dementia has been hypothesized.

Objective: Verify the prevalence of senile dementia across different historical periods.

Method: Beyond the medical literature, reviewed papers addressing legal and social aspects were examined to provide a comprehensive overview of the subject.

Results: While the medical literature on the subject is limited, there are a greater abundance of sources discussing social and legislative aspects. The scientific study of dementia had began only in the early 1800s.

Conclusion: In ancient times, dementia was not particularly rare, but it was often overlooked, as it was considered an inevitable consequence of aging.