Alzheimer’s vs Dementia

The NHS definition of dementia is ‘a progressive neurological disease which affects multiple brain functions, including memory’. It is categorised as a syndrome, that is, a group of related symptoms, linked to the gradual decline of cognitive brain function and negative impact on memory. 

This can include loss of memory, speed of thought and overall mental agility. It can also cause difficulties with language, mental judgment and understanding of one’s surroundings or circumstances.

There are several different types of dementia, with Alzheimer’s, a progressive brain disease which over time impairs memory and cognitive functions, widely recognised as the most common form. 

In the UK alone it has been estimated that nearly a million people live with Alzheimer’s, and that figure is growing all the time as people are now living longer.

Put simply, dementia is broadly a collection of symptoms pertaining to loss of brain function, whilst Alzheimer’s is defined as a disease with more defined symptoms. It is important to recognise that although symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s can often overlap, the treatment and ongoing management for each entails differing approaches and packages of care provision.

This is complicated further as some patients can have ‘mixed dementia’ where, for example, they may have Alzheimer’s as well as other conditions like Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) or vascular dementia. 

Alzheimer’s is not always easy to diagnose, as it takes years to develop, can sometimes be seen as forgetfulness as part of natural ageing, and often overlaps with other conditions. Its exact cause is still subject to research, but it is linked to family health history, lifestyle, head injuries in the past and cardiovascular disease. Alzheimer’s affects every patient in a different way and to a varying degree of severity.