Contrary to Popular Belief: 3 Main Differences Between Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Although Alzheimer’s and dementia are used in the same context, they are different. Although the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia will overlap, the diagnosis must be separated for the correct treatment and management of the disease.

The symptoms a person suffers from is dementia and could be the loss of communication abilities, memory, and the inability to perform daily activities. No one is immune to this health condition.

3 Main Differences Between Alzheimer's and Dementia

Dementia

When an individual is diagnosed with dementia, it means it is a group of symptoms that are happening because of a condition. There are several types of dementia an individual can suffer from at the same time. Dementia is overwhelming for the family and caretakers in the home. It’s important to get help from Parc Provence that is needed. Caring for older adults with these types of symptoms is emotional and overwhelming for the family.

When a family member can no longer remember their loved one’s names, it can break the person’s heart. There are many symptoms of dementia that an individual should keep an eye out for.

Dementia Symptoms

Forgetfulness is one of the first symptoms of dementia. Although things can be forgotten because of stress and other factors, a person with dementia will be unable to find their way in familiar settings. As dementia progresses, the needs of the patient will increase because they will not be able to make appropriate decisions, ask repeated questions, and have poor hygiene.

An individual can get depressed when they are unable to properly communicate with friends and family. They might want in circles in a house without a purpose. Seeing this behavior is difficult to handle if the person is not thoroughly trained in treating this type of patient.

Dementia Treatment

Treating the condition that causes dementia is the best way to go. The right medication can help to manage dementia. Treatment for tumors, drugs, metabolic disorders, and hypoglycemia should be addressed as quickly as possible to limit the impact on a person’s health.

Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is a disease and not a syndrome. Damage to the brain begins many years before the symptoms of this disease appear. Plagues and tangles in the brain form and are made of abnormal protein deposits. Symptoms from Alzheimer’s generally begin after 60 years of age.

Alzheimer Symptoms

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s include difficulty remembering recent conversations or events. The patient will have apathy, depression, disorientation, confusion, behavioral changes, and difficulty speaking. In some patients, Parkinson’s or Huntington’s disease will cause involuntary movement in the early stages.

Alzheimer Treatment

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s but there are some forms of treatment that can help to include medication for behavioral changes and memory loss. Fish oil and coconut oil help to boost brain function. Medications to help an individual sleep or reduce depression can be helpful.

The lifespan of dementia or Alzheimer’s patient is shortened. Alzheimer’s is a terminal illness and an individual has a life expectancy of four to eight years. Some individuals have lived up to 20 years. A patient’s lifespan with dementia will depend on the treatment they receive for the underlying cause of this condition.

Some types of dementia are reversible and some treatments can slow the progress. Proper care in the right facility will improve the quality of dementia or Alzheimer’s patient’s life and relieve the family of the burden this type of personal care requires.


Published: 2019-10-25 14:57:38
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