Dementia Versus Alzheimer’s: How Are They Different?

Many people have trouble distinguishing between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, even though they mean different things. Dementia generally refers to the decline in mental ability to function correctly, interfering with an individual’s daily life. On the other hand, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.

Knowing the difference between dementia vs. Alzheimer’s can empower people with either of the conditions. Their families and caregivers can gain the necessary knowledge and skills to help the patients handle these ailments. This guide explores the basic information about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. 

Here is an overview of dementia and Alzheimers and their differences and similarities.

Overview of Dementia

Dementia refers to a group of symptoms characterized by a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning ability. Notably, various kinds of dementia are available, and many conditions can cause it, including Alzheimer’s. 

Studies reveal that Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia. It accounts for 60-80 percent of dementia cases. Note that dementia isn’t a normal part of the aging process. It results from the damage of brain cells, affecting the ability to communicate. Dementia can be cured in some cases.

Overview of Alzheimer’s 

Alzheimer’s can occur as a result of complex brain changes due to brain cell damage. It is a degenerative brain disease that can cause dementia symptoms, which can gradually worsen with time. Alzheimer’s patients have trouble remembering things.

The symptoms can get more severe, causing confusion, disorientation, and changes in behaviors. Swallowing, speaking, and walking may eventually become complicated. Notably, the chance of getting Alzheimer’s disease increases as individual ages.

Similarities and Differences

While Alzheimer’s is a specific disease, dementia is a group of symptoms characterized by the impairment of at least two brain functions, like judgment and memory loss.

The similarity between the two conditions is that symptoms of both are the inability to remember information. They can also cause problems with judgment and reasoning.

Unlimited Care Cottages Eases Daily Life

Now that you know the difference between dementia versus Alzheimer’s, you better understand the two conditions’ differences. Being diagnosed with dementia doesn’t necessarily mean that the individual has Alzheimer’s. While the symptoms of Alzheimer’s can be managed or slowed, the disease has no cure.

Contact us to find more information about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease