The Difference between Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability that impacts memory, performance of daily activities, and communication abilities. Alzheimer’s on the other hand, is a symptom of dementia – it is a disease that worsens with time and affects memory, language as well as a person’s thought process.

Oftentimes, age is considered to be a contributing factor to developing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. However, both conditions can start to develop at quite a young age. It is crucial to distinguish between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in order to receive the proper diagnosis, management and treatment.

Treatments are available to manage dementia symptoms but there isn’t currently a way to stop or slow down dementia. In some cases, vascular dementia can be slowed down but it can also shorten a person’s lifespan. 

Alzheimer’s, on the other hand, is a terminal disease with no cure currently available. An average person diagnosed with Alzheimer’s has an estimated lifespan of approximately four to eight years after diagnosis but some people can live up to 20 years.

If you or your Elders have any concerns or are experiencing any symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, don’t hesitate to talk to a doctor. Starting treatment early can help to manage symptoms better.

Source from https://www.healthline.com/health/alzheimers-disease/difference-dementia-alzheimers