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Currently, nearly 6 million people are living with dementia, and as the Baby Boomer generation ages, that number is expected to double. Despite its increasing prevalence, there is still widespread confusion about what dementia truly is. Many people use dementia and Alzheimer’s interchangeably, but they are not the same. Dementia is an umbrella term that refers to a range of conditions that cause cognitive decline, with Alzheimer’s being just one of them. Let’s take a closer look at dementia and explore some of its most common types. Defining Dementia Dementia is not a specific disease but a broad term that describes a significant decline in cognitive abilities caused by the physical deterioration of the brain. What was once commonly referred to as "going senile" is now recognized as a complex medical condition influenced by genetics, lifestyle factors, and overall brain health. While dementia itself is not a direct cause of death, it can weaken the immune system, making a loved one more susceptible to complications such as pneumonia, infections, or malnutrition—especially in its later stages. Common Types of Dementia Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, resulting from the buildup of two proteins in the brain: tau tangles and amyloid plaques. These proteins damage neurons, interfere with communication between brain cells, and trigger inflammation, leading to progressive cognitive decline. Common symptoms include: Confusion and disorientation Becoming lost, even in familiar surroundings Difficulty recognizing loved ones Impulse control issues In advanced stages, a complete loss of communication Vascular Dementia Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia and is often called post-stroke dementia. However, not everyone who experiences a stroke will develop this condition. It occurs when reduced blood flow to the brain leads to cognitive decline, impacting memory, reasoning, and overall mental function. Common symptoms include: Short-term memory loss Difficulty following instructions Confusion and disorientation Sudden emotional outbursts, such as uncontrollable laughing or crying Loss of bladder or bowel control Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) Lewy Body Dementia shares many symptoms with both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, making it difficult to diagnose accurately. This condition is caused by the buildup of an abnormal protein, known as a Lewy Body, which disrupts communication between neurons and affects brain function. Common symptoms include: Sleep disturbances and irregular sleep patterns Difficulty concentrating and staying focused Impaired judgment and reasoning Loss of coordination and movement control Visual hallucinations Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) Frontotemporal Dementia has recently gained more public awareness following actor Bruce Willis’ diagnosis. This form of dementia is caused by the buildup of tau and TDP-43 proteins in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Unlike Alzheimer’s, FTD usually does not impact memory in its early stages but instead affects behavior, language, and movement. Common symptoms include: Difficulty with reading, writing, or understanding speech Mood swings and emotional instability Problems with coordination and movement Personality changes, including inappropriate behavior or reduced empathy Hope for the Future While there is currently no cure for dementia, ongoing medical research is making exciting progress in developing antibody treatments and medications. These treatments show the most promise in the early stages of the disease, making early diagnosis essential. If your loved one is experiencing unusual forgetfulness or behavioral changes, seeking medical advice as soon as possible can make a meaningful difference. Although some forms of dementia have genetic components, lifestyle choices can significantly influence risk. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in whole foods, engaging in regular physical activity, fostering social connections, and scheduling routine medical check-ups can all help reduce the likelihood of developing dementia or slow its progression. Small, proactive steps today can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling future for your loved one. How We Can Help If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, No Place Like Home Senior Services is here to offer compassionate, specialized care. Our caregivers are highly trained to support individuals with all types of dementia, providing expert assistance with patience and understanding. We prioritize creating a safe, nurturing environment that enhances your loved one’s quality of life while giving your family peace of mind. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help your loved one navigate dementia with dignity, comfort, and compassionate care. Please contact Irene with No Place Like Home Senior Services at 919-762-0035.

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