What is the Difference Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia?

There is often confusion between the definition of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  According to the Alzheimer’s Association, dementia is not a specific disease.  Rather it is the overall term used to describe a wide range of symptoms that cause a decline in memory and other cognitive skills that reduce a person’s ability to perform everyday activities.   

Alzheimer’s disease accounts for up to 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases, while vascular dementia, which is caused by the damage from a stroke, is the second most common cause.  Other types of dementia may be a result of Huntington’s, Parkinson’s and Creutzfeldt-Jakob diseases, and a person may have more than one form of dementia.  Thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, brain tumors, medication side effects as well as depression, excessive alcohol us and even infectious diseases can cause dementia-like symptoms; however in these cases, once the problem is correctly diagnosed, it is reversible.  This is why health care providers state the importance of getting a professional evaluation to determine the cause of your or your loved one’s symptoms.    

In addition getting an accurate diagnosis at the onset of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia allows the person to receive the maximum benefit from the available treatments.  Furthermore, it gives the person time to plan for their future.  

 At MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, we offer 128 graciously appointed suites for independent living and 80 suites for assisted living for those that need a helping hand with daily living activities.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, we devote 32 secure suites to the individualized care for residents with memory impairment from Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.  We offer residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community and provide a whole range of resort-style amenities and wellness programs. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.  

Sources:.alz.org/what-is-dementia.asp

well.blogs.nytimes.com/2016/08/16/ask-well-is-dementia-the-same-as-alzheimers-disease/?rref=collection%2Fcolumn%2Fask-well&action=click&contentCollection=well&region=stream&module=stream_unit&version=latest&contentPlacement=12&pgtype=collection