The Caring Corner®
Understanding Different Types of Dementia
Dementia is a general, “umbrella” term for a group of diseases that impair memory and other cognitive functions. It affects hundreds of thousands of people worldwide, and it can be difficult to understand the differences between all the types. According to some experts there are well over 100 specific types of dementia. Here’s an overview to help families understand the different types of dementia, their causes, and how they can be managed.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. It is a progressive disease in which neurons in the brain deteriorate and die over time. Alzheimer’s usually starts with mild forgetfulness but eventually leads to more severe symptoms such as confusion, disorientation, difficulty speaking or understanding language, changes in behavior, and loss of motor skills. The cause of Alzheimer’s is not known with certainty but it is believed to be related to genetic factors as well as lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise. Treatment options include medications that can slow down the progression of the disease as well as therapies such as cognitive stimulation therapy or music therapy that can help improve symptoms or enhance quality of life.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is caused by damage to blood vessels in the brain due to stroke or other vascular issues such as high blood pressure or diabetes. It typically affects people over age 65 who have had multiple strokes or other vascular events over time. Symptoms may include confusion, difficulty speaking, trouble focusing or paying attention, difficulty making decisions, and changes in behavior. Treatment for vascular dementia includes managing underlying medical conditions such as hypertension or diabetes as well as medications that can help improve cognition.
Frontotemporal Dementias (FTDs)
FTDs are rare types of dementias that are caused by abnormalities in areas of the brain responsible for speech, decision making and behavior control – specifically the frontal lobe and temporal lobe regions located at the front part of your head above your eyes and ears respectively. FTDs more commonly will affect younger adults as compared to other forms of dementia; typically between 45-65 years old. Symptoms vary depending on which part(s) of the brain are affected but may include changes in personality or behavior (such as impulsiveness), difficulty with communication (e.g., speaking in sentences), decreased ability to focus/pay attention and difficulties with decision making/judgment. Treatment options may include medications to improve cognition/behavioral functioning along with counseling/therapy services from social workers or psychiatrists depending on what type FTD you were diagnosed with .
Dementia is a group of diseases that affect memory and cognitive functioning; there are many different types with varying causes and treatment options available depending on your individual situation. Understanding these differences can help families make informed decisions about care plans for their loved ones living with dementia so they can get access to treatments that will help them live better lives despite this challenging illness!
Call Acorn for great caregivers when you need home care or elder care services for a loved in Chapel Hill, Durham and surrounding areas. Caregivers can provide simple companionship or may serve clients with Alzheimer’s, dementia, on hospice and bed bound patients. From a few hours per visit to 24/7 care.
