Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of cognitive impairments that disrupt memory, thinking, behavior, and daily functioning. While it is often associated with aging, dementia is not a normal part of the aging process. It occurs when brain cells are damaged, affecting communication and gradually impacting essential activities like managing finances, personal care, and social interactions.
Understanding the various types of dementia, their signs and symptoms, and available treatment options is vital for seeking timely care and support. It’s important to note that treatment options vary, and anyone facing dementia should consult with a physician to discuss the most suitable course of action for their specific needs.
Common Types of Dementia
There are many types of dementia, each with unique characteristics and causes. Let’s explore the most common forms and a few lesser known types:
1. Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60%-80% of cases. This progressive disorder affects memory, thinking and behavior. As the disease advances, it severely impacts the ability to carry out daily tasks.
Typical Symptoms:
- Early-stage: Memory loss, confusion, difficulty with language
- Mid-stage: Mood swings, difficulty recognizing familiar faces, and trouble completing tasks
- Late-stage: Difficulty walking, swallowing and speaking
Treatment:
While there is no cure, medications like cholinesterase inhibitors may help stabilize symptoms temporarily. Non-pharmacologic therapies like art, music, and physical exercise can also improve quality of life.
2. Vascular Dementia
The second most common form, vascular dementia is caused by impaired blood flow to the brain due to conditions like strokes or blocked blood vessels.
Typical Symptoms:
- Sudden confusion and disorientation
- Difficulty with speech or movement problems
- Gradual cognitive decline following multiple small strokes
Treatment:
Treatment focuses on managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Rehabilitation therapies can also help.
3. Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB)
This type of dementia is caused by abnormal protein deposits in brain cells known as Lewy bodies. It affects cognition, movement and sleep.
Typical Symptoms:
- Memory loss and difficulty thinking clearly
- Movement problems similar to Parkinson’s disease (e.g., tremors, rigidity)
- Visual hallucinations and sleep disturbances
Treatment:
Medications for Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s may be used. Additionally, therapies that address movement problems and behavioral issues can improve quality of life.
4. Parkinson’s Disease Dementia
Parkinson’s disease dementia typically develops in individuals with Parkinson’s disease, often about 10 years after the onset of movement symptoms.
Typical Symptoms:
- Memory problems, poor concentration, and difficulty with judgment
- Trouble interpreting visual information and speech problems
- Hallucinations, anxiety and depression
Treatment:
There is no cure, but symptom management involves medications like cholinesterase inhibitors for cognitive symptoms and other treatments to address hallucinations and movement difficulties.
5. Mixed Dementia
In mixed dementia, two or more types of dementia occur simultaneously in the brain. The most common combination is Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.
Typical Symptoms:
Symptoms vary depending on the types of dementia involved but may include memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with motor control.
Treatment:
There is no specific treatment for mixed dementia, so management focuses on treating the most prominent form of dementia present.
6. Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
FTD is a rare form of dementia caused by nerve cell damage in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. It primarily affects people under the age of 65.
Typical Symptoms:
- Changes in personality and behavior, including impulsivity and poor judgment
- Difficulty with language and speech
- Memory often remains intact in the early stages
Treatment: Although no cure exists, medications can manage symptoms like agitation and depression. Supportive therapies focus on behavioral and cognitive changes.
7. Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)
NPH occurs when excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain, causing pressure and potential brain damage.
Typical Symptoms:
- Difficulty walking, memory problems, and cognitive decline
- Urinary incontinence and poor concentration
- Slow thinking and decision-making
Treatment: Treatment typically involves surgically placing a shunt to drain excess fluid. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes.
8. Huntington’s Disease
Huntington’s disease is a rare, inherited condition that causes the progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the brain, leading to motor and cognitive problems.
Typical Symptoms:
- Uncontrolled movements, including jerking or twitching
- Cognitive decline, including poor memory and concentration
- Mood swings, depression and irritability
Treatment: There is no cure, but medications can manage movement symptoms and mood swings.
9. Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)
CJD is an extremely rare, degenerative brain disorder caused by abnormal protein folding, which leads to rapid cognitive decline.
Typical Symptoms:
- Rapid memory loss and confusion
- Uncontrolled movements and vision problems
- Muscle stiffness and the eventual loss of the ability to speak or move
Treatment: CJD progresses quickly, and while there is no cure, treatment focuses on symptom management and comfort care.
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) refers to noticeable memory or thinking difficulties that don’t qualify as dementia. While MCI doesn’t always lead to dementia, it can be an early warning sign. People with MCI may experience:
- Forgetting names, places, or misplacing items
- Difficulty concentrating or following conversations
- Missing appointments or getting lost
While there is no cure for MCI, regular cognitive monitoring and lifestyle changes such as exercise and a healthy diet can help slow progression.
Diagnosis of Dementia
There is no single test for diagnosing dementia. Medical professionals use a combination of:
- Interviews and questionnaires
- Cognitive tests and memory assessments
- Brain imaging (CT or MRI scans)
- Blood tests and neurological exams to rule out other conditions
Early diagnosis allows for more effective treatment and planning for care.
Treatment Options
Although there is no cure for most types of dementia, several treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:
- Medications: Cholinesterase inhibitors, glutamate regulators, and medications targeting specific symptoms (e.g., depression or agitation)
- Non-pharmacological therapies: Cognitive stimulation, music and art therapies, physical activity, pet therapy, etc.
- Supportive care: Occupational therapy, speech therapy, and caregiving support can help individuals maintain independence for as long as possible
Living with Dementia
Dementia is a life-changing diagnosis, but with the right care, individuals can still lead fulfilling lives. Memory care communities provide a safe, supportive environment with tailored care plans, engaging activities, and socialization that promote cognitive health, independence and well-being.
These communities focus on both physical and emotional needs, helping residents maintain their dignity and quality of life. Seeking support early and staying connected with loved ones is key to enhancing the experience of living with dementia.
Bridges by EPOCH Is Here for You
If you or a loved one is navigating the challenges of dementia, Bridges by EPOCH offers compassionate, personalized memory care designed to enhance quality of life. Our dedicated team provides a supportive environment that nurtures both physical and emotional well-being.
Find the closest Bridges community to you to discover how we can help your family through every stage of dementia care with understanding and expertise. Let us support you and your loved one on this journey.
Bridges by EPOCH communities are located throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, including Andover, Hingham, Lexington, Mashpee, Nashua, Norwalk, Pembroke, Stamford, Sudbury, Trumbull, Westford, and Westwood.