A little forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging—misplacing keys or forgetting a name now and then happens to many of us. And sometimes, these changes can bring about moments of frustration or shifts in mood. But what if your loved one starts missing important appointments, repeating the same stories, or becoming confused about time or location? While these changes can seem subtle at first, they may signal something more than typical aging. Could it be dementia?
Could it be Alzheimer’s?
As a family member and/or caregiver, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure when you start noticing these changes. Understanding the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s—and recognizing the early signs—can help you take the next best steps for your loved one’s care.
Dementia Is the Umbrella, Alzheimer’s Is One Type
Let’s start with some basic definitions. Dementia is not a disease in itself—it’s a general term used to describe symptoms that interfere with daily life, such as memory loss, poor judgment, or difficulty with language. A variety of different medical conditions can cause dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, making up 60–80% of all cases. It’s a specific, progressive brain disease that gradually destroys memory and thinking skills. If dementia is the “what,” Alzheimer’s is the “why” in many cases.
Think of it this way: Dementia is an overall condition (the umbrella); Alzheimer’s is one possible diagnosis under that umbrella. Other diagnoses responsible for dementia include Lewy body dementia (the second most common cause after Alzheimer’s, resulting from protein deposits in nerve cells in the brain), vascular dementia (caused by brain damage from impaired blood flow to the brain), and frontotemporal dementia (a group of disorders causing gradual damage to the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain).
Signs of Alzheimer’s: What to Watch For
As a caregiver, you are in the best position to notice the subtle changes related to memory that might signal Alzheimer’s disease. Early signs include:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as forgetting important dates or asking the same questions repeatedly
- Difficulty with familiar tasks, like cooking a favorite meal or managing finances
- Confusion with time or place
- Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps
- Withdrawal from hobbies or social activities
- Mood or personality changes, such as increased irritability, anxiety, or suspicion
These symptoms may seem benign at first but typically worsen over time, gradually impacting the person’s ability to function independently.
Dementia Can Involve More than Memory Loss
Although we equate dementia with memory loss, not every type of dementia starts there, so it is important to recognize some of the other signs:
- Vascular dementia may cause issues with planning, decision-making, or physical movement and can often develop after a stroke.
- Lewy body dementia can lead to vivid hallucinations, sleep disturbances, and Parkinson’s-like tremors.
- Frontotemporal dementia often begins with major changes in behavior, personality, or language—sometimes in people as young as their 50s.
Knowing what to look for can help you provide better care and advocate for the right diagnosis when you seek treatment for your loved one.
When to Seek Help
If you suspect your loved one may be showing signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s, don’t wait to find out. Start with their primary care physician, who can rule out other causes and refer you to a neurologist or memory specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis allows for better symptom management, care planning, and access to support services.
Being a caregiver can be emotionally and physically exhausting—but you’re not alone. Understanding the signs is the first step in helping your loved one live with dignity, safety, and as much independence as possible. Granny Nannies of Miami provides specialized in-home services to support you and your loved one in navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Give us a call to learn more about how we can help.