What can be a significant long-term effect of dementia on an individual's ability to interact socially?

The correct choice highlights a significant long-term effect of dementia, which is the reduction in social interactions. As dementia progresses, individuals often experience memory loss, cognitive decline, and difficulty in processing information. These changes can make social engagements challenging. Individuals may struggle to remember names, follow conversations, or understand social cues, leading to frustration and withdrawal from social situations. The loss of social skills and the fear of not being able to engage meaningfully can result in decreased participation in social activities and isolation.

This decline in social interactions can have substantial implications for the individual, impacting not only emotional well-being but also potentially exacerbating feelings of loneliness and depression. Therefore, it’s essential to recognize that dementia can lead to significant long-term changes in how individuals interact with others and the extent of their social involvement.