Translation guide
The English term "senile dementia" is outdated and now considered stigmatizing. In Japanese, the equivalent term 痴呆 (ちほう) is also outdated and has been officially replaced by 認知症 (にんちしょう), which means "cognitive impairment" or "dementia." This guide focuses on modern, respectful terminology and expressions used in medical, caregiving, and everyday contexts.
dementia (modern, respectful term)
This is the standard term used in medical and everyday contexts. Avoid using 痴呆 (ちほう).
To refer to dementia in a neutral, respectful way, as used in healthcare and daily conversation.
To understand the historical term that corresponds directly to 'senile dementia' but is now considered offensive.
This is the direct equivalent of 'senile dementia' but is now considered derogatory and has been officially replaced by 認知症. Avoid using this term.
To refer to specific medical diagnoses that fall under dementia.
To describe common symptoms or behaviors associated with dementia.
To discuss caregiving, support services, and daily life with dementia.
Nursing care, often used in the context of elderly care including dementia.
The word 痴呆 (ちほう) was the standard term for 'senile dementia' until it was officially replaced in 2004 due to its derogatory connotations. Using it today can cause offense. Always use 認知症 (にんちしょう) instead.
My grandfather has senile dementia.
Use 認知症, not the outdated 痴呆.
Caring for someone with dementia is challenging.
Literally 'cognitive impairment,' a broader term that can include dementia but also milder forms. Used in medical contexts.
Age-related cognitive impairment is observed.
Do not use this term; it is stigmatizing and outdated. Use 認知症 instead.
Please don't use the word 'chiho' anymore.
Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia.
My father has Alzheimer's disease.
Vascular dementia, caused by reduced blood flow to the brain.
Vascular dementia can occur after a stroke.
Dementia with Lewy bodies, characterized by protein deposits in the brain.
Visual hallucinations are common in dementia with Lewy bodies.
Recently, my mother has become very forgetful.
To wander, a behavior often seen in dementia patients.
Elderly people with dementia sometimes wander and go missing.
Delirium, an acute confusional state that can occur in dementia.
Delirium can occur during hospitalization.
Caring for a person with dementia is a heavy burden on the family.
Day service, a community-based care service for elderly people, including those with dementia.
My mother goes to day service three times a week.
Dementia supporter, a person trained to understand and help people with dementia in the community.
I took a dementia supporter training course.
Please say 'ninchisho,' not 'chiho.'
While 物忘れ (ものわすれ) means 'forgetfulness,' it does not necessarily indicate dementia. 認知症 is a clinical diagnosis involving significant cognitive decline that interferes with daily life. Use 物忘れ for ordinary forgetfulness and 認知症 for the medical condition.
I've become more forgetful with age, but it's not dementia.
She is showing signs of dementia.