Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are terms that often get used interchangeably. However, while they’re similar, they do have some key differences. Both conditions affect memory, personality, behavior, and more, and they often cause a person to need professional care.
Dementia is a broad term for a range of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities. There are several types of dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common of them. While Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia, not all dementia is Alzheimer’s disease.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia isn’t a single condition. Instead, this term is used to describe changes occurring within the brain. When an underlying condition damages brain cells and affects cognitive function, it’s usually referred to as dementia.
There are many types of dementia, each with unique characteristics. Some develop due to changes in blood flow, while others are linked to specific proteins within the brain. A professional diagnosis is key when dementia is involved, as it lets you look for custom-tailored care designed specifically to help your loved one.
How Can You Recognize the Early Signs of Dementia?
Dementia isn’t a normal part of aging. While many people deal with some mild forgetfulness, worsening symptoms are something to pay attention to. Some of the early signs of dementia include:
- Memory loss, especially forgetting recent events or conversations.
- Trouble with reasoning and decision-making.
- Difficulty concentrating or staying focused.
- Behavioral changes, such as irritability or confusion.
- Language difficulties, like struggling to find the right words.
- Getting lost in familiar places.
These usually develop around the age of 65+, but can sometimes develop sooner.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It’s the most common form of dementia, but it stands out because it has its own unique symptoms and progression. Unlike general dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is caused by changes in the brain. Eventually, these slowly affect memory, thinking, and reasoning.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease?
Many symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease overlap with general dementia. However, you can typically recognize the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease by:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as forgetting important dates or events.
- Difficulty with communication and language, like repeating questions or struggling in conversation.
- Visual and spatial issues, such as trouble recognizing faces or reading.
- Personality and mood changes, including increased anxiety or depression.
- Difficulty retracing steps or remembering how to get to familiar places.
- Problems with planning or solving problems, like following a recipe or managing finances.
Alzheimer’s disease is more common in older adults. However, in some cases, it can develop as early as a person’s 40s, depending on their lifestyle and genetics.
What Are the Differences Between Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia?
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease share many similarities. However, they also have some key differences. Dementia is a general term for symptoms affecting cognitive function, while Alzheimer’s disease is a specific cause of dementia.
Meanwhile, Alzheimer’s disease tends to occur later in life, although early-onset Alzheimer’s can happen. Dementia can develop at any stage of adulthood, though it’s more common among older adults. In fact, a person can even experience Alzheimer’s disease and another type of dementia at the same time. This is why it’s so important to seek professional help.
How to Support Someone with Alzheimer’s or Dementia
Supporting someone living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. With the right approach, you can help your loved one stay safe in their daily life. If your loved one is diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, it’s time to consider memory care.
How Does Memory Care Work?
Memory care is a special lifestyle. This option is tailored entirely towards helping people with cognitive decline. When dementia or Alzheimer’s is a factor, memory care can offer:
- Safe, secure environments to prevent wandering.
- Structured routines to reduce confusion and frustration.
- Activities that engage and stimulate cognitive function.
- Caregivers trained to handle the challenges of dementia.
These restore dignity, safety, and self-respect to your loved one’s day.
Recognizing When It’s Time for Memory Care
There comes a point when caregiving at home may no longer be sustainable. If this is the case, it’s time to think about professional support like memory care.
These signs all indicate the need for memory care:
- Increased difficulty with basic tasks, like dressing or eating.
- Wandering or getting lost, even in familiar places.
- Aggressive or challenging behaviors that are hard to manage.
- Severe memory loss that disrupts daily life.
If these sound familiar, it’s time to look into professional care. Don’t worry—memory care can help your loved one every day. This way, you can step back and focus on yourself.
Caring for Yourself as a Caregiver
Supporting a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease is a big responsibility. That means that if you’re caring for your loved one yourself, you need to focus on your own needs, too.
Make sure that you:
- Take breaks when you need them—respite care can provide temporary relief.
- Stay connected with friends and family for emotional support.
- Join caregiver support groups to share experiences and advice.
- Practice self-care by setting aside time for hobbies, exercise, or relaxation.
Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself allows you to provide better care for your loved one.
Get Help for Your Loved One with Alzheimer’s or Dementia
Supporting a loved one through the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia is no easy feat. But with the right information, support, and resources, you can navigate this journey with confidence. You aren’t alone, and our team at Juniper Village at Williamstown is ready to step in and give your family the support you need.
If your loved one is living with cognitive decline, our team can help. In our community, they’ll always have access to the support they need to thrive. Schedule a visit with our community, and together, let’s find your loved one their future home.
