As we age, our brains change and cognitive abilities tend to decline. Memory lapses become more frequent, and we may find ourselves struggling to recall certain words or phrases. While some degree of cognitive decline is a normal part of the aging process, in a more severe form it can be a sign of a more serious condition or a specific disease, such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Senior couple comforting each other — The early symptoms of dementia & Alzheimer’s include memory loss and trouble concentrating.

In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the differences between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease to help the family members of those affected make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, including when to seek out dementia & Alzheimer’s care services.

Differences Between Alzheimer’s & Dementia

Support worker helping with other symptoms of dementia like an ability to care for one’s health

While Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia, not all dementia is Alzheimer's disease. Other types of dementia may have different causes and symptoms, and progress at different rates. For example, vascular dementia is caused by a blockage or reduction of blood flow to the brain, and may occur as a result of a stroke or other cardiovascular condition.

Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in cognitive function that is severe enough to interfere with daily activities. There are many different types of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia, among others.

Alzheimer's disease, on the other hand, is a specific type of dementia that is characterized by the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain. These abnormal protein deposits cause the death of brain cells, leading to a decline in cognitive function.

Lewy body dementia is caused by the buildup of abnormal protein deposits in the brain, similar to Alzheimer's disease, but also involves the accumulation of alpha-synuclein protein in the brain, leading to symptoms such as mood changes, hallucinations and sleep disturbances. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for approximately 60-80% of all cases.

Pattern of Cognitive Decline

One key difference between Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia is the pattern of cognitive decline. Alzheimer's disease typically begins with memory loss and confusion and gradually progresses to affect other cognitive functions, such as language, attention, problem-solving abilities and affects the ability to perform everyday activities. Other types of dementia may have different patterns of cognitive decline, depending on the underlying cause of the condition.

Age of Onset

Another difference between Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia is the age at which one typically can develop dementia and Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer's disease is the common form seen in older adults with a diagnosis in people over the age of 65, although early-onset Alzheimer's disease can occur in people as young as 30. Other types of dementia, such as frontotemporal dementia, may occur at a younger age and are often associated with behavior changes and personality changes.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Symptoms

Dementia and Alzheimer's disease are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Mixed dementia, if we are to describe symptoms, is a broad term used to describe a decline in cognitive function that interferes with daily activities.

Alzheimer's is a degenerative brain disease that causes a decline in thinking skills and cognitive function. Symptoms of Alzheimer's include memory loss, difficulty with language, disorientation, and changes in mood and behavior. This affects one’s quality of life and ability to self-manage one’s overall health. The exact cause of Alzheimer's is unknown, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

What is Huntington’s Disease?

Huntington's disease is another neurodegenerative disorder that affects cognitive function. Unlike Alzheimer's, Huntington's is a specific disease whose most common cause is a genetic mutation. Symptoms of Huntington's disease can include involuntary movements, cognitive decline, and psychiatric problems such as depression and anxiety. Huntington's disease tends to progress more rapidly than Alzheimer's and there is also no cure.

Risk Factors & Prevention For Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Dementia and Alzheimer's disease are debilitating conditions that can greatly affect a person's quality of life. While age and family history play a role, certain lifestyle factors can also increase the risk. Smoking, high blood pressure, and lack of exercise can lead to chronic inflammation, which can damage the brain over time. However, a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing these conditions. Engaging in regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking can improve overall health and potentially lower the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's. It's important to remember that not all cases of dementia or Alzheimer's can be prevented, but taking steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk and improve overall well-being.

It is important to seek medical attention if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of cognitive decline, behavioral changes, or difficulty managing daily life, as early diagnosis and treatment can help to slow the progression of these diseases and help you prepare a plan for care. Unfortunately, there is no known cure at this time.