Dementia Support Line
Multiple sclerosis
Some people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience a loss of some of their mental abilities. This happens if damage caused by the MS occurs in certain parts of the brain.
People may be affected to different degrees, and in different ways, over a period of time. The mental abilities most likely to be affected are memory, concentration and problem solving. They may also experience emotional problems, such as mood swings and personality changes.
The term 'dementia' is not generally used in association with multiple sclerosis because the decline is not usually as severe as it is in other forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease. It is more usual to describe the person as 'experiencing cognitive difficulties'.
MS Society
The MS Society provides support, information and funds research for those affected by multiple sclerosis.