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Profile picture for Colleen Young, Connect Director @colleenyoung

Dementia is the umbrella term used to describe problems with memory or thinking. There are different types of dementia. Dementia symptoms get worse over time, which is known as ‘cognitive decline’. Dementia is caused by disease in the brain. It is not a natural part of aging.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause or type of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is a physical illness which damages a person’s brain. It starts many years before symptoms start to show.

Hi @babsjg1194, it can be confusing. I believe you have been diagnosed with dementia. Did your doctor tell you that you have Alzheimer's disease?

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Replies to "Dementia is the umbrella term used to describe problems with memory or thinking. There are different..."

Coleen, thank so you much for asking a significant question and clarifying the differences. I believe I was diagnosed with Dementia, but i'm not sure of the differences. For many years I've had a meningioma that seemed okay. Lately, began having terrible insomnia, and family and friends began complaining that I repeat myself alot. After the last brains scan --a few months ago-- the Brain doctor told me and my Neurologst I have dementia (I think). The neurologst prescibed medicine for sleeping which does very little, and told me to come back in three months. Pains in the side and top of my head come and go. I sleep 4 hours max, even with meds. Unfortunately, my Neurologist seems indifferent, which scares me all the more. I appreciate your inquiry. I see the neurologst next week, and will ask for clarifiacation. I am grateful for any insight and suggestions you make.