In 2021, 57 million people had dementia worldwide, over 60% of whom live in low-and middle-income countries (World Health Organization). Every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases. When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it can be difficult to know what comes next. You may feel unsure about the diagnosis, confused by the symptoms, or overwhelmed by the decisions ahead.
Understanding the different types of dementia and how they impact day-to-day life can help you feel more confident as you support your family member through their care journey.
At CareOne, we believe that compassionate care begins with education. Knowing what to expect can help you make informed choices, ask better questions, and explore the senior care options that meet your loved one’s needs.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is not one specific disease. It’s a broad term that refers to a decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. It is caused by damage to brain cells, which interferes with the brain’s communication and functioning abilities.
There are many different types of dementia. Each one affects the brain in unique ways, which is why understanding the diagnosis is key to providing the right care and support.
Common Types of Dementia
Key Symptoms at a Glance:
- Alzheimer’s Disease: Memory loss, confusion, disorientation
- Vascular Dementia: Problems with planning/judgment, movement issues
- Lewy Body Dementia: Visual hallucinations, sleep disturbances, Parkinsonism
- Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): Personality changes, loss of empathy, language problems
Understanding these key symptoms can help families identify early warning signs and prepare for the kind of care and support their loved one may need.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60–80% of all cases. It typically progresses gradually, beginning with mild memory loss and eventually affecting language, reasoning, and the ability to manage daily life. While there is no cure, early diagnosis and structured support can greatly improve quality of life.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia occurs after a stroke or due to reduced blood flow to the brain. It often leads to more noticeable issues with judgment, problem-solving, or movement. Symptoms can appear suddenly or develop over time, depending on the extent of the damage.
Lewy Body Dementia
This form of dementia is associated with abnormal protein deposits in the brain, known as Lewy bodies. People may experience visual hallucinations, sleep disturbances, movement issues, and fluctuating cognitive abilities. Lewy body dementia shares some features with both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
FTD affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which control personality, behavior, and language. It often appears earlier in life than other types of dementia and may present as personality changes, emotional flatness, or language difficulties.
Mixed Dementia
It’s also common for individuals to have mixed dementia, where brain changes associated with more than one type of dementia occur simultaneously, most commonly a combination of Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Because the symptoms can overlap and evolve in different ways, mixed dementia can be more difficult to recognize. This complexity makes it even more important to have an accurate diagnosis and a care plan tailored to the individual’s specific needs.
Why the Type of Dementia Matters
Each form of dementia requires a tailored approach to care. Symptoms may vary widely from person to person, and so do the emotional and behavioral changes that come with them. Knowing the specific type helps families work with care teams to develop strategies that preserve dignity, enhance communication, and support daily routines.
Understanding the diagnosis also guides the selection of appropriate senior care options. Some individuals may benefit from specialized memory care programs, while others might need physical rehabilitation or mobility assistance in addition to cognitive support.
How to Choose the Right Support
Once a diagnosis is in place, many families begin exploring care options. Memory care communities are designed specifically for individuals living with dementia. These environments offer structured routines, trained team members, sensory programming, and secure spaces that reduce confusion and promote safety.
At CareOne, our memory care services are rooted in connection, consistency, and dignity. We help families navigate the complexities of dementia with compassion, clinical expertise, and personalized care plans.
If your loved one has recently been diagnosed, now is the time to start learning about available senior care options. Having conversations early helps ensure smoother transitions and better outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dementia
What’s the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s?
Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, but it is just one type. Other forms include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
Can dementia be prevented?
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, certain lifestyle choices may help reduce risk. Staying mentally and physically active, eating a heart-healthy diet, managing blood pressure and cholesterol, and avoiding smoking can all contribute to better brain health.
What are the early signs of dementia?
Early symptoms often include memory loss that disrupts daily life, difficulty planning or solving problems, confusion with time or place, trouble understanding visual information, and changes in mood or personality. If you notice these signs in a loved one, it may be time to speak with a healthcare provider.
How do I talk to a loved one about memory care?
Start the conversation gently and with empathy. Focus on their well-being and the ways memory care can enhance their safety, comfort, and daily routine. Involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible and be prepared for multiple conversations over time.
Moving Forward with Knowledge and Support
A dementia diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. Education, preparation, and support make a world of difference not only for the individual but for the entire family.
CareOne is here to guide you through the process. From understanding the type of dementia to finding the care option that best suits your family member’s needs, our team is here to help every step of the way.
Reach out today to learn more about our memory care services and how we support families facing dementia with compassion and clarity.
