What is the Difference Between Alzheimer's and Dementia?

A common question we are asked is "What is the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia?  I think mom or dad has one of the two, but which?"  Natalie Schneider, Geriatric Care Manager and President of American Companion Care took some time to answer this question.  

"Truthfully, differentiating between dementia and early Alzheimer's disease is not easy to do. Alzheimer's is a form of dementia. Alzheimer's has specific stages of progression but of course the time table for every person is different. Dementia typically has a slow decline with lengthy plateaus as the person ages.

An important and appropriate action is taking your father to a doctor and discussing the changes you have noticed. If he has not had any neurological testing done before now this may be a good time to take that step. If the testing is negative you can sigh in relief and know you have a baseline for the future. If the tests result with a diagnosis of dementia you will have time to learn more about his diagnosis and plan for the future keeping him safe with the highest quality of life as possible. I encourage you to make an appointment with a medical professional for further advice." 

 - Natalie Schneider, CMC

If you suspect that you or a loved one is suffering from memory decline, download and print this free Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). It only takes about 10 minutes to administer.

American Companion Care has caregivers that are very comfortable with elder care, Alzheimer's care, and Dementia Care. You don't have to do this alone - we service the entire Kansas City Metro Area. Contact Us for a free in home care assesment.

For more RESOURCES on Alzheimer's Disease or caring for someone with Alzheimer's Disease, visit our RESOURCE LIBRARY.