The Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer's

When it comes to memory loss, the terms dementia and Alzheimer's are often used interchangeably. However, they aren't the same. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. While it may be easier to lump all memory related issues together, this isn't accurate - and it doesn't do patients any favours. So, it's time to break it down and find out what the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease actually is.
All About Dementia: What It Is, How It Happens, and Treatment Options
In order to understand the difference between these two terms, we must start by defining what each one really means. Let's start with dementia. This is often used as an umbrella term to describe mental impairment that affects every day life. Unlike normal age related memory issues, dementia is a far more serious problem. It doesn't just make everyday tasks more challenging. As time goes on, the symptoms of dementia will continue to progress, eventually robbing patients of their independence. While age related memory loss might include random bouts of forgetfulness or remembering how to perform certain tasks, dementia is not a short-term problem. It is degenerative, meaning that as time goes by, the symptoms experienced will either increase in regularity or become much worse. How long that takes to happen depends entirely upon the patient themselves and certain environmental factors, such as diet, exercise, and so on.
It is important to note that dementia is not a disease. Rather, it is a progressive brain disorder. The symptoms related to dementia typically appear in men and women over the age of 60. However, the chances of developing dementia increase as you age. For instance, once you reach the age of 90, the likelihood of experiencing dementia rises to 1 in 3.
Now that you know what dementia actually is, you may be wondering why this term is so frequently linked with Alzheimer's disease. Well, here is the reason: when it comes to the cause of dementia, many different brain diseases can be to blame.... Alzheimer's included. This link often leads to confusion between the terms. Alzheimer's isn't the only cause of dementia, though. It can also occur because of aging, brain damage, injury, infections, a genetic predisposition, poor nutrition, certain medications, or even long-term alcohol and drug abuse.
How can you tell whether yourself or a loved one is experiencing dementia? There are many symptoms. Some of the most common include: memory loss, trouble performing every day tasks, poor judgement and reasoning skills, inappropriate behaviours, judgement issues, difficulty communicating, disorientation, balance problems, paranoia, agitation, as well as reduced personal hygiene. Once two or more of these symptoms appear, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a medical professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and discuss any relevant treatment options.
While there is no cure for dementia, there are preventative steps that can reduce the severity of the symptoms and slow down the progression. Studies have indicated that performing challenging mental exercises every day (like doing a crossword puzzle, using memorization techniques, and so on), staying active (going for a walk or lifting weights), and eating well (the Mediterranean diet has been found to slow down memory loss symptoms) may be able to make a difference in the quality of life for dementia patients. The earlier you start, the better.
All About Alzheimer's Disease: What It Is, How It Happens, and Treatment Options
Moving on to Alzheimer's disease...this is a degenerative brain disease that leads to dementia. Yes, that is the key difference between the two terms. While the word dementia encompasses certain memory loss symptoms, Alzheimer's disease refers to an actual genetic disease. It is progressive and most commonly affects men and women over the age of 65. However, it can occur much earlier, depending on a genetic pre-disposition and certain environmental factors.
Yet another reason that dementia and Alzheimer's are often thought to be the same has to do with the fact that Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia and its related symptoms. In fact, the Centre For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 50-70% of all dementia cases in senior citizens are related to this degenerative brain disease. With millions of people around the world currently living with the disease (and over 5 million men and women diagnosed in the United States alone), it is clear that Alzheimer's is a serious health issue. This is especially problematic as the numbers are expected to rise significantly in the next several years.
The cause of Alzheimer's disease has to do with genetics. While it does have links to dementia, not everyone with dementia will have Alzheimer's disease and vice versa. This brain disease has everything to do with your genetic makeup. For instance, if someone in your family has been diagnosed with the disease in the past, your likelihood of developing it yourself increases dramatically. However, that does not mean if your grandfather had the disease, your brain is a ticking time bomb. It just indicates that your chances of developing the disease are increased.
When Alzheimer's disease is present, the brain will start to behave abnormally. Certain parts of the brain may shrink while others widen or important connections in your brain may become weak or broken. The result? Dementia and its related symptoms, which includes forgetfulness, difficulty with abstract thinking, and so on. After these symptoms begin to appear, the disease will continue to progress slowly until it becomes impossible for the patient to live without assistance.
One of the most troubling aspects of this disease is that there is no known cure. While researchers and scientists try to change that, prevention is key. Just like with dementia, the same preventative measures should be taken. Mental exercises, regular physical activity, and a balanced diet can make a huge difference to the quality of life for a patient. It can also impact how quickly the disease progresses and how people can live independently. If you or a loved one are at risk for Alzheimer's or are already dealing with the early symptoms, there is no better time to make some changes to your lifestyle. Something as simple as reading the newspaper every morning can help keep your brain sharp.
So, what is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease? To sum it up simply, dementia is the symptom and Alzheimer's is the cause. With so many people living with memory loss today, it is more important than ever to understand the difference between these two terms. Improved knowledge is essential, as it allows us to focus on prevention - and on living fuller, healthier lives.
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients. His participation at the Age Matters Clinic allows him to share his knowledge with patients and their families.