It can be difficult to see our loved ones grow older. In our mind, we still see them as the vibrant and quick-minded individuals that we have always known and loved. However, Father Time is still undefeated and nobody can escape the effects that aging can have on the body and mind.
Two of the toughest ailments to deal with as our loved ones grow older is the deteriorating mental effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. While these two age-related ailments share some similarities, they are in fact different and should be treated differently.
Dementia
What is Dementia?
Dementia, contrary to popular belief is not in of itself a disease. Rather, dementia is a group of symptoms that tend to impact the areas of the mind that are responsible for memory and rational thinking. Therefore, dementia is usually defined as a “syndrome”, not a disease, and multiple diseases can fall under the label of dementia. This is the case with Alzheimer’s disease, as Alzheimer’s is considered a type of dementia.
People can also have more than one type of dementia, having multiple different diseases or ailments contributing to their dementia. This is called “mixed dementia”. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 47.5 million people are currently suffering from a form of dementia.
What are the Symptoms of Dementia?
Dementia begins with a symptom that nearly every person on the planet has wrestled with: forgetfulness. Who amongst us hasn’t forgotten where they left their keys or to close a door? However, over time this can morph from forgetting simple objects to not being able to remember important events and essential tasks. Soon enough, those afflicted with dementia will be unable to keep track of time and find themselves often getting lost in familiar settings like their home.
Getting lost will soon shift to constant confusion, as they will have trouble remembering faces and names, even of those they love most. Personal hygiene may also soon become an issue, as they will forget to perform activities such as taking a shower and brushing their teeth.
Alzheimer’s Disease
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that will slowly eat away at the memory and critical thinking of those afflicted with it. This progressive disease will get worse with time, meaning it is important to identify symptoms early. The cause of Alzheimer’s is currently a mystery, and while there are treatments for symptoms of Alzheimer’s, there is no cure.
More than 5 million people in the United States are currently dealing with symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, according to estimates by the National Institute of Health. While Alzheimer’s is primarily a disease that occurs in older individuals, it is possible for a younger person to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
What are the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease causes continued deterioration of the brain, losing the connection between brain cells and possibly shrinking the brain. This causes a decline in the ability to think critically and remember important events and occurrences. Over time, this will hinder the ability of someone afflicted with Alzheimer’s to effectively communicate. This will lead to disorientation, depression, confusion, and intense behavioral changes. Near the end of their battle with Alzheimer’s disease, those afflicted will have difficulty performing essential physical tasks such as speaking, chewing and swallowing and walking.
The Differences in Symptoms Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
In order to understand the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, it is important to first address the similarities. The main similarity is that both will have a significant impact on memory. This decline in memory will lead to issues thinking through problems and an inability to communicate.
The differences between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in the early stages are mostly in regards to specific symptoms of Alzheimer’s, because as previously discussed Alzheimer’s disease is a more specific type of dementia. Those with Alzheimer’s will show a sense of detachment and impaired judgment that is usually not present in the early stages of dementia. Beyond being forgetful and not as “sharp”, Alzheimer’s may represent a significant change in personality and behavior. This can lead to them being disoriented and having difficulty remembering things that just occurred. This behavioral and attitude change is the key to distinguishing between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Get Your Loved One Help as Soon as They Show Symptoms of Alzheimer’s or Dementia
If your loved one is showing any of the aforementioned symptoms for Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, get them treated immediately. The sooner issues are identified the better they can be treated. Synergy Research Centers in San Diego offer treatment research studies for those with Alzheimer’s disease. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, get them the help they need today at Synergy Research Centers.