Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are two commonly confused terms. Though they are related, you should understand their differences. This will help you talk with doctors more clearly about your loved one’s condition and needs.

Alzheimer’s Disease

What It Is

Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that affects the brain. Because it is progressive, it will gradually cause increased impairment of memory and cognitive function. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, approximately 5.7 million Americans are living with this disease. It most commonly affects people age 60 and older. 

What to Expect

The brain is damaged and can even shrink as cells start to die. The symptoms will often start off slight and get worse as the disease progresses. Symptoms include memory impairment, apathy, depression, confusion, changes in behavior, difficulty communicating, and judgment impairment. In more advanced stages of the disease, patients can forget how to write, speak, walk, or conduct everyday functions. Medications can help manage symptoms, but the disease cannot be cured.

Dementia

What It Is

Dementia is used to describe symptoms that negatively impact thinking and memory, and these symptoms can be caused by many things such as medications, injuries, and diseases. According to the World Health Organization, around 50 million people worldwide have dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type (around 60 to 70% of cases).

What to Expect

Early stages of dementia include forgetfulness and losing track of time. As it progresses, people can get lost at home and start forgetting recent events or others’ names. They’ll start to need help with taking care of themselves. As it continues to progress, they may no longer recognize loved ones and experience behavior changes. Dementia can be treated if the cause of the condition can be treated. For example, patients with a brain tumor could experience a full recovery. In most cases, it is not reversible, but medication can help manage it.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia can become a full-time job as the symptoms progress. The team at Memory Care Home Solutions can help you prepare for this by providing caregiver training and support in St. Louis, MO. Their services are completely free and will help you provide the best possible care for your loved one! Call them at (314) 645-6247 to get started or visit them online to learn more about their memory loss support.