A Lowdown on the Different Types of Dementia by Anthem Senior Homes

Dementia is a term that encompasses an array of neurological conditions that take a toll on the brain and cause progressive cognitive decline. Some of the symptoms include loss of memory, disorientation, confusion, personality and mood changes, trouble with language, decision-making, and day-to-day activities. This is where specialized memory care can be highly beneficial for those diagnosed with dementia- it is considered to be the best form of senior living in Anthem. It must be noted here that dementia is not a normal part of aging. The condition can have different symptoms and causes depending on the type and stage of dementia.

It is essential to understand the different types of dementia in order to receive the right support, and care and treatment to help people live better with the condition. This blog aims to discuss some of the most common types of dementia:

Alzheimer’s disease: This is the most common type of dementia, and most people use Alzheimer’s disease and dementia interchangeably. It accounts for around 80 percent of all cases. It is buildup of abnormal protein deposits, namely, amyloid plaques in the brain that lead to the disease by damaging the brain cells over a period of time. Although those over 65 years of age are more prone to Alzheimer’s disease, younger people may as well be at the receiving end of it.

Some of the symptoms include:

1. Memory loss
2. Disorientation
3. Confusion
4. Mood swings
5. Delusions
6. Hallucinations
7. Paranoia
8. Issues with language, judgment, and reasoning

As the condition progresses reaching an advanced stage, one may lose their ability to interact, perform the basic tasks, recognize their loved ones, and regulate their bodily functions.

Vascular Dementia: This is the second most common type of dementia accounting for around 20 percent of all cases recorded. Reduced blood flow to the brain brought about by strokes is the major cause of the disease. Again, older adults are more prone to this type of dementia but its effect could be palpable on people of any age.

Here are the symptoms:

1. Loss of memory
2. Confusion
3. Disorientation
4. Trouble with concentration and attention
5. Mood changes (apathy, depression, etc.)
6. Personality changes (irritability)
7. Impaired executive functions (organizing, planning, etc.)
8. Language skills also go for a toss
9. Urinary incontinence

Lewy body dementia: 5-10 percent of all dementia cases could be attributed to Lewy body dementia, which is caused by accumulation of abnormal protein deposits, namely, Lewy bodies in the brain. Individuals over 50 years of age are more susceptible to this form of dementia. However, younger people could also be afflicted with the condition.

Frontotemporal dementia: As the name suggests, degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain is what leads to this form of dementia that accounts for 2-5 percent of all cases. This type of dementia usually affects individuals between 45 and 64 years old. Book a suite today at the award-winning Anthem Senior Homes in Phoenix, and leverage the benefits of our specialized memory care services for yourself or your loved one. To book a suite, call us at 623-300-1180.