If you have an elderly loved one experiencing cognitive changes and memory loss, you may hear the terms "dementia" and "Alzheimer's disease" routinely. While these conditions are related, the names are not interchangeable. Understanding the distinctions will help you find the right senior care services for your loved one.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive disease of the brain that slowly causes impairment in memory and cognitive function. It involves major changes in the brain that take place over many years and begin in the hippocampus. For example, toxic amyloid plaques and tau proteins build up. Additionally, the neurons that transmit messages from one part of the brain to another begin to degenerate. As a result of these brain changes, an elderly loved one may experience difficulty communicating, a decreased ability to make decisions, memory loss, and erratic behavior.

While Alzheimer’s Disease is an irreversible, degenerative condition, there are ways to slow the progression. For example, there are drugs that can decrease amyloid plaques and tau in the brain. Also, lifestyle changes can make a difference. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and maintaining social connections are all crucial to brain health. 

Dementia 

Dementia refers to a wide range of disorders that are characterized by memory loss and mental decline. For example, Alzheimer’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, and Vascular Dementia are each a different form of dementia. 

In most cases, you’ll notice a decline in cognitive thinking and difficulty with everyday activities, such as teeth brushing, getting dressed, preparing meals, remembering tasks, and driving. Unfortunately, these changes can adversely affect your loved one’s relationships, emotions, and behaviors.

Dementia can be a normal part of aging. It is important to realize that dementia may require extra senior care and treatment. It also progresses gradually, so it can be difficult to track and notice over time. If you do suspect brain changes, seek a medical diagnosis, and look into care options that meet the needs of the individual. 

Abbington Assisted Living is proud to provide senior care throughout Columbus, Pickerington, Powell, Chillicothe, and Coshocton, OH. Abbington senior living communities are one-story buildings that are designed with comfort and security in mind, offering comprehensive nursing care services in a compassionate, comfortable, and cost-effective manner. Please visit our website or call us directly at (614) 451-4575 in Columbus, (614) 577-0822 in Pickerington, (614) 789-9868 in Powell, (740) 773-4630 in Chillicothe, or (740) 623-4600 in Coshocton.