What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease?

@babsjg1194
Here are some links with information. It is important to get evaluated and treated as soon as possible to slow down the progression, if possible, through treatment. My mother in law had early onset Alzheimer’s. It gradually caused her brain to die and her body not to function. Sad to watch. My son’s father will be 60 at the end of the month and I am seeing signs in him. Will not be fun to deal with or watch.
1. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/difference-between-dementia-and-alzheimer-s
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/alzheimers-and-dementia-whats-the-difference/faq-20396861
3. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/dementia-vs-alzheimers
4. https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/difference-between-dementia-alzheimers-disease
5. https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/difference-between-dementia-alzheimers/
6. https://www.healthline.com/health/alzheimers-dementia/difference-dementia-alzheimers

My mom is 86 yrs old and has stage 6 dementia, she is slowly forgetting how to do things she loved, it hit her quickly, in 1 year she declined alot , they gave her meds for visions she was having, the meds definitely helped.

I applaud your coming forward to share this. I've had several family members with alzhimers so I do have a connection to your fears. I have a disorder that is robbing me of my mental and physical capacities as well so I can relate to your fear.

Please, hang in there and use your support system, family and friends. They will support you through this difficult journey.

My husband of 55 years died from Alzheimer’s 5 years ago. It took about 10 years from the time that he noticed something was wrong until he was severely impaired. Absolutely the only positive thing I can say about the disease is that usually you get time to plan ahead. So I knew the house maintenance chores and our finances and his passwords when he could no longer function. This at least was a blessing.

For the reference please spell it as Alzheimers instead of altimers (table of contents) This disease robbed my mother and family of integrity and pride. It's cruel. She suffered for 8 years. All our family worked and full time care is beyond expensive.

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?

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.

You can find lifestyle measures to take to slow decline in the books by Dr. Dale Bredesen. They include diet, exercise, social interaction, sleep and supplements. You can also be tested to see if you have 0, 1, or 2 Alzheimers genes, APOe4. APOe3 is not Alheimers.

Thank you, anf all blessings for your insightfull knowledge and and kind heart!!!!

I ordered and received Dr. Bredesen's book from Amazon, and began reading it today. Based on what little I've read thus far, it's very encouraging. I now have to find a doctor with enough insight and courage to be helpful. Thanks so very much Again!!! Barbara