When considering dementia, many people think it’s a single condition. However, this isn’t the case. The term “dementia” refers to a complex group of neurological symptoms caused by damaged brain cells. The underlying damage is what defines the specific type of dementia.
Some common types of dementia include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
Each of these has its own unique cause and effect. However, through memory care, you can intervene to help maintain your loved one’s quality of life.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It accounts for more than 70% of all cases. It develops as plaques and tangles form inside the brain, gradually damaging the surrounding cells. Alzheimer’s typically begins in the structure of the brain responsible for learning.
This progressive condition eventually reaches other areas of the brain to cause a general decline in cognitive abilities. However, with timely intervention, a person diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease can seek treatment through memory care. This is a specialized form of senior living designed for older adults living with memory impairment.
The Early Signs of Alzheimer’s
Because Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, identifying the early signs is key. Watch for these symptoms:
- Memory loss affecting daily activities
- Difficulty planning or solving problems
- Confusion with time or place
- Challenges in completing familiar tasks
- Misplacing items and losing the ability to retrace steps
If you have a loved one showing these signs, visit a healthcare professional as soon as you can.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia occurs when the blood flow to the brain is restricted in some way. This deprives the brain of necessary nutrients and oxygen, leading to damaged cells.
This can be caused by:
- Stroke and injury
- Damaged blood vessels
- High blood pressure
- Genetic disposition
- High cholesterol
Addressing these risk factors is key to lowering the risk of vascular dementia. This condition often develops alongside other forms of dementia; around 90% of those living with vascular dementia experience another variation of dementia.
The Early Signs of Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia typically affects the part of the brain responsible for storing and retrieving memories. However, the restricted blood flow can affect other structures in the brain as well.
Some common symptoms of vascular dementia include:
- Confusion and disorientation
- Trouble speaking or communicating
- Sudden headaches
- Balance issues and physical sensations
- Numbness or paralysis
If you have a genetic disposition to vascular dementia, like a family history of strokes or cardiovascular conditions, regular health checkups are key. Early intervention and lifestyle adjustments can lower your risk of developing vascular dementia.
Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy Body Dementia develops when abnormal protein deposits known as Lewy bodies develop in nerve cells throughout the brain. The Lewy bodies damage neurotransmitters throughout the brain, which then causes the onset of dementia-related symptoms.
This condition is part of a larger group called “Dementia with Lewy Bodies.” As the Lewy bodies damage cells throughout the brain, they impact dopamine production, which then leads to movement problems.
This dopamine production can then cause shaking and jerking movements as the loss of fine motor control progresses. This is often associated with Parkinson’s disease, which is part of the group of dementia with Lewy bodies.
The Early Signs of Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy body dementia can cause a range of complex symptoms. Some common symptoms include:
- Visual hallucinations
- Movement disorders, such as tremors
- Sleep disturbances
- Attention fluctuations
- Cognitive decline similar to Alzheimer’s
Lewy Body Dementia requires a nuanced approach to care. It requires a combination of medication, nonmedical therapy, and professional support to mitigate its effects.
Frontotemporal Dementia
The frontotemporal lobe is just behind your forehead. It’s the part of the brain responsible for managing your personality, behavior, language, muscle control, and more.
When the cells of the frontotemporal lobe are damaged or begin to degenerate, it causes a condition called frontotemporal dementia. This condition progressively damages nerve cells throughout the lobe and has several subtypes, though they cause similar symptoms.
The Early Signs of Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal dementia typically develops at a younger age than other types of dementia. The symptoms typically develop between the age of 40-65, though this can vary depending on the unique circumstances.
The early signs of frontotemporal dementia include:
- Drastic personality changes
- Impulsive behaviors
- Difficulty with language and speech
- Lack of empathy
- Repetitive or compulsive actions
If a loved one showcases these signs, visit a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. Frontotemporal dementia can progress quickly, with symptoms worsening over a short time. Early intervention is key to managing this condition’s effects on your loved one.
How to Help a Loved One With Dementia
All 4 of these types of dementia can be complicated. It’s essential to keep an eye out for the signs that something is wrong—this gives you a chance to intervene sooner rather than later.
If you have a loved one showcasing signs of cognitive changes, contact our team at The Terrace at Chestnut Hill. Through our memory care lifestyle, we can work closely with your family to help your loved one live a dignified and respected life. Schedule your visit today—we’re ready to help your family on this journey.
