Dementia is not a disease, it is an umbrella term used to describe a group of neurological conditions that affect the brain. There are over 200 different types of dementia, but the most prevalent in the UK are Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia and Lewy body dementia.
Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, but there are many other causes. People can have one type of dementia or they can be living with more than one kind, which is called ‘mixed dementia’.
For over 75 years, Prestige Nursing & Care has provided expert, high-quality dementia home care that empowers people to remain living independently at home. Here we explore the different types of dementia including the causes and symptoms of each.
Types of Dementia
Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent and well-known type of dementia. It is a progressive brain disorder that leads to cognitive decline, memory loss, and difficulties in speech and language.
Alzheimer’s is caused by the abnormal buildup of plaques and tangles in neurons, the brain’s nerve cells. These plaques impair the communication and collaboration between neurons, which affects essential brain functions like memory and speech.
Common Alzheimer’s symptoms include:
- Memory loss
- Speech difficulties
- Poor concentration
- Disorientation and confusion
- Slow, muddled or repetitive speech
- Withdrawal and isolation
- Changes in mood and behaviour
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, the symptoms worsen and begin to significantly impact daily life. Initially, signs may be mild, such as misplacing items or forgetting the names of loved ones. However, as more areas of the brain are affected, symptoms become more pronounced and challenging to manage.
Sadly there is no cure currently for Alzheimer’s disease but there are medications and treatments that can help slow down the decline of memory and cognitive abilities. Medications can be prescribed to manage secondary symptoms like anxiety or depression.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is the second most prevalent form of dementia. It is caused by restricted blood flow to the brain. When the brain is deprived of adequate oxygen and essential nutrients due to impaired blood circulation, it can lead to cognitive impairments and memory loss.
This restricted blood flow commonly occurs as a result of diseased or damaged blood vessels, or it may be triggered by strokes or transient ischemic attacks (“mini strokes”). Each of these events can result in damage to brain cells, further affecting cognitive functions and leading to the development of vascular dementia.
While vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease share certain symptoms, vascular dementia primarily affects a person’s thinking skills, such as the ability to plan, organise, and concentrate. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, where memory loss is a hallmark feature, the initial symptoms of vascular dementia are often related to difficulties in planning and decision-making.
The most common symptoms of vascular dementia include:
- Difficulty in planning and making decisions
- Impaired organisation and problem-solving skills
- Reduced ability to concentrate and focus
- Memory problems
- Confusion and disorientation
- Mood swings and changes in behaviour
- Difficulties with walking and balance, particularly in later stages
The progression of vascular dementia varies depending on the underlying cause and the extent of brain damage. Managing the risk factors that contribute to vascular diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, can play a significant role in preventing or slowing its development.
Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy body dementia (LBD) is a type of dementia that affects both the brain and the nervous system. The condition is characterised by the presence of abnormal spherical structures in the brain called Lewy bodies, which develop within nerve cells. Over time, these Lewy bodies lead to the deterioration and eventual death of nerve cells in the brain.
People with LBD may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Difficulty concentrating and focusing on tasks
- Confusion and disorientation
- Visual hallucinations
- Problems with movement, such as muscle stiffness, tremors, and difficulty walking
LBD shares several similarities with other neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, and in its early stages, it can be challenging to distinguish between these conditions. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss is less common in LBD. Instead, people with LBD are more likely to experience mood and behaviour changes, such as apathy, depression, and anxiety.
The fluctuating nature of symptoms is another characteristic feature of LBD. People may experience good days followed by more challenging days, making the condition even more complex to diagnose and manage.
Because of the unique and overlapping symptoms, a comprehensive medical evaluation and assessment are necessary to arrive at an accurate diagnosis.
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a relatively rare form of dementia that primarily affects behaviour and language. It affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which are responsible for personality, emotional regulation, language, and decision-making.
There are several different subtypes of frontotemporal dementia, and the symptoms can vary depending on which areas of the brain are affected first. Unlike most other types of dementia, FTD often affects individuals between the ages of 45 and 65, making it more common in younger adults.
Some of the common symptoms associated with FTD include:
- Personality and behavioural changes
- Language difficulties
- Memory problems
- Disorientation
The symptoms of frontotemporal dementia can have a significant impact on daily functioning and interpersonal relationships. Early diagnosis is crucial for providing appropriate care and support for affected families
Early/Younger Onset Dementia
Early or younger onset dementia is a term used to describe any form of dementia that occurs in individuals under the age of 65. While dementia is commonly associated with older adults, it can affect people in their 50s, 40s, and even as young as their 30s. This type of dementia can present itself as any of the various forms of the condition, including Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, or Lewy body dementia.
One of the significant challenges with early onset dementia is the difficulty in diagnosing it accurately. Since healthcare providers may not routinely consider dementia as a potential cause of cognitive symptoms in younger individuals, diagnosis may be delayed or misdiagnosed. This delay can lead to a significant impact on the person’s quality of life and emotional well-being.
Despite the name, people living with early-onset dementia may be diagnosed at any stage of dementia, including the early, middle, or late stages. The symptoms experienced by individuals with early onset dementia are similar to those observed in older individuals with dementia, such as memory loss, cognitive decline, and changes in behaviour and mood.
Dementia Care in Your Own Home
Prestige Nursing & Care has provided expert dementia home care for over 75 years. We are trusted by families up and down the country to provide exceptional care that empowers people with dementia to continue living in the comfort of home, with greater dignity and independence.
Receiving dementia care in your own home means you can continue to live life your way, whilst benefiting from one-to-one care provided by a competent and compassionate carer. Our carers are there to provide the dedicated care you need to enjoy an improved quality of life.
Find out why our clients choose Prestige Nursing & Care for a high-quality, responsive home care service.
We know from our years of experience helping countless families across the UK and Scotland that when it comes to dementia care, your own home is best.
Our dementia care at home is designed to evolve as your care needs change. We can provide dedicated care and support at every stage of your condition, for all of life.
We are here to take your call and will provide impartial support and guidance. Do not hesitate to contact our friendly care experts today to discuss your dementia care needs.
