What Is Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological disorders that affect memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. It is not a normal part of aging, though age is the greatest risk factor.
While Alzheimer's disease is the most common form, there are several types of dementia, each with its own characteristics and progression patterns. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper diagnosis and care planning.
Common Types of Dementia Disorders
Alzheimer's Disease
The most common form of dementia. It is associated with brain changes that can affect memory, thinking, and daily function.
Vascular Dementia
Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often following strokes or other cardiovascular conditions.
Lewy Body Dementia
Features protein deposits called Lewy bodies and may include visual hallucinations and movement issues.
Frontotemporal Dementia
Affects the frontal and temporal lobes, often impacting personality and language before memory.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Dementia presents differently depending on the type and stage, but common symptoms include:
Memory & Cognitive Changes
- Memory loss affecting daily life
- Difficulty with familiar tasks
- Problems with language and communication
- Disorientation to time and place
Behavioral & Emotional Changes
- Changes in mood and personality
- Decreased judgment and reasoning
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Sleep disturbances and agitation
Your Care Team
Our board-certified psychiatrists specialize in treating psychotic disorders with compassion and expertise.
Dr. Bernice Ponce de Leon
DO, Board-Certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist | Licensed in CA, NV
View profileFrequently Asked Questions
Early signs include memory loss that disrupts daily life, difficulty completing familiar tasks, confusion with time or place, trouble understanding visual images, and problems with words in speaking or writing.
Normal aging may include occasional memory lapses, while dementia involves significant memory loss that interferes with daily activities, judgment problems, and difficulty completing familiar tasks.
While there is no guaranteed prevention, healthy lifestyle choices like regular exercise, mental stimulation, social engagement, and managing cardiovascular health may help reduce risk or delay onset.
Support includes caregiver education programs, respite care services, support groups, counseling services, and assistance with legal and financial planning for families affected by dementia.