The terms Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are sometimes used interchangeably. While there are plenty of similarities between the two, they are separate conditions. Understanding the difference can help you better support a loved one through a diagnosis and ultimately choose the most suitable type of Alzheimer’s or dementia care available.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that are usually caused by damaged brain cells. These include declining brain function, memory loss, and inability to carry out daily tasks. Unlike Alzheimer’s, it is not technically a disease, but several diseases can cause it. In fact, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, but other conditions like Parkinson’s, HIV, and vascular cognitive impairment can also lead to dementia symptoms. On its own, dementia is not progressive or fatal, though many of the underlying conditions that cause it are.

What Is Alzheimer’s?

As mentioned above, Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia, meaning it causes symptoms such as confusion, behavioral changes, and difficulty performing daily tasks. Alzheimer’s is a degenerative disease, so it gets worse over time and is eventually fatal.

Dementia symptoms often occur in the mid to late stages of Alzheimer’s; before that, many people have no noticeable symptoms, but changes occur in the brain. There is no known cause of Alzheimer’s, though doctors believe that multiple factors like age and family history can play roles. There is also no known cure, so ongoing Alzheimer’s and dementia care are necessary for helping individuals live with the symptoms.

If you have a loved one who requires professional Alzheimer’s or dementia care, Red Cedar Canyon Senior Living will help. The Hudson, WI, community offers assisted living, respite care, and memory care options for families throughout the aging process. They employ an “aging and place” philosophy, meaning individuals can access all the care options they require as their needs change, without having to move multiple times. The location is even pet friendly, so seniors can bring their furry friends with them. To inquire about dementia care for a loved one, call (715) 381-7333 or visit their website.