Alzheimer’s vs Dementia: What’s the Difference? A Clear Guide for Families
When a loved one begins to show changes in memory or thinking, terms like Alzheimer’s and dementia often come up. Many people use them interchangeably — but they’re not the same thing. Understanding the difference can help you recognise symptoms early, seek the right support, and feel more confident in care decisions.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term — not a specific disease. It describes a set of symptoms and changes in the brain that affect:
Memory
Thinking
Communication
Decision-making
Daily functioning
You might hear the word “dementia” used in a diagnosis when someone shows multiple cognitive challenges that interfere with everyday life.
Think of dementia as a category of conditions.
Common Features of Dementia
People with dementia may experience:
Forgetfulness that affects day-to-day activities
Difficulty finding the right words
Trouble with planning or organising
Confusion about time or place
Changes in mood or personality
Dementia isn’t a normal part of ageing — it’s caused by damage to brain cells from disease or injury.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, responsible for an estimated 60–80% of cases.
It’s a specific brain disease — one of many that can lead to dementia symptoms. Alzheimer’s involves abnormal protein build-up in the brain (plaques and tangles) that gradually destroy cells and affect memory and cognitive function.
Alzheimer’s Progression
Alzheimer’s usually starts with:
Mild memory loss
Difficulty recalling recent events or conversations
As it progresses, symptoms may include:
Greater confusion
Trouble recognising familiar faces
Language problems
Behavioural changes
Loss of independence
Alzheimer’s is progressive — which means symptoms typically worsen over time.
How Alzheimer’s and Dementia Relate
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
All Alzheimer’s is dementia, but not all dementia is Alzheimer’s.
Dementia describes the symptoms. Alzheimer’s is one specific disease that causes those symptoms.
Other causes of dementia include:
Vascular dementia (after a stroke or reduced blood flow to the brain)
Lewy body dementia
Frontotemporal dementia
Mixed dementia (more than one type present)
Each type can impact people differently and may require slightly different care approaches.
Why This Matters for Families and Caregivers
Understanding the distinction helps in:
Early Recognition
Spotting the type of cognitive change can lead to earlier support, management, and planning.
Care Planning
Different causes of dementia may benefit from tailored approaches — both medically and socially.
Communication with Professionals
Asking the right questions during assessments, appointments, and care planning meetings can bring clarity and confidence.
At Wardside House, we know these conversations can be emotional and overwhelming. That’s why we emphasise compassionate education as part of our support — for residents, families, and carers alike.
Final Thoughts
If you’re noticing memory changes in someone you love, it’s okay to ask:
“Is this normal ageing?”
“Could this be dementia?”
“Might it be Alzheimer’s?”
A medical assessment can help answer those questions and start a plan that focuses on quality of life.