Dementia is a broad term used to describe a decline in cognitive ability that interferes with daily life. Here is an exploration of the different kinds of dementia and how they impact aging adults:
- Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for up to 70% of cases. It is characterized by the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain, leading to the death of brain cells. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s include memory loss, difficulty with language, confusion and changes in mood and behavior. As the disease progresses, individuals may require increasing levels of care, from independent living to skilled nursing. To learn more about how Alzheimer’s affects the brain, take the Alzheimer’s Association’s Brain Tour.
- Vascular dementia is the second most common type and is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain due to a stroke or other conditions that affect the blood vessels. Symptoms include difficulty with planning, problem-solving and decision-making, as well as changes in mood and behavior. Treatment may include managing underlying health conditions, such as hypertension, to prevent further damage to the brain.
- Lewy body dementia is caused by the buildup of abnormal protein deposits, called Lewy bodies, in the brain. This type is characterized by fluctuations in alertness and attention, visual hallucinations and movement problems, such as tremors and stiffness. Individuals with Lewy Body Dementia may also experience symptoms like those with Parkinson’s Disease. According to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, “While Lewy body dementia is not Alzheimer’s and not Parkinson’s disease, the disease affects 1.4 million people in the U.S. alone.”
- Frontotemporal dementia is caused by the degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. This form affects personality, behavior and language skills, rather than memory. Symptoms include changes in social behavior, difficulty with language and impulsivity. Frontotemporal dementia is more common in individuals under the age of 65.
In senior living communities, memory care programs are designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with dementia. Memory care programs may include structured activities to promote cognitive function, specialized therapies and support for families and caregivers. Assisted living and skilled nursing facilities may also provide additional medical care and assistance with daily tasks for individuals with dementia. If you have concerns about memory loss or cognitive decline, it is essential to speak with a healthcare provider for an evaluation and diagnosis.
“My mother and father-in-law have lived at Inland Christian Home’s memory care for three years. The staff there are excellent. Always right there with friendly faces and warm hearts to help with anything the residents and their families might need.”
-Craig D.