It's common for people to change as they get older, and sometimes in unexpected ways. For instance, seniors with a cognitive decline like dementia or Alzheimer's may require a caregiver to assist with daily tasks they can no longer perform alone. Though many people use the terms interchangeably, dementia and Alzheimer's aren't the same condition. If you're a caregiver of an aging loved one experiencing changes in their memory, consult the guide below to learn more about Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disease that causes slow memory and cognitive function impairment. Though no one knows the disease's exact cause, it is known that it causes complicated brain changes due to cell damage. Because Alzheimer's is degenerative, its symptoms worsen over time. 

Early signs of the condition usually include difficulty remembering new information because the disease's first target is the part of the brain that deals with learning. As the condition progresses, it causes confusion, disorientation, and behavior changes. Advanced Alzheimer's can make it difficult for a person to walk, talk, and swallow. 

No one should expect to have Alzheimer's as they age because it's not a normal part of getting older. However, some people are more at risk than others, including those over age 65, people with a family history of the disease, and people with traumatic brain injuries or heart disease.

Dementia

Whereas Alzheimer's is the name of a specific condition, dementia is an umbrella term for a severe decline in mental ability. Alzheimer's is a cause of dementia, which describes several symptoms attributed to declines in a person's memory and ability to reason and think critically. Early signs of the condition include forgetting things occasionally or getting lost in a familiar place, like a relative's home or neighborhood. Over time, dementia will progress, leading to poor decision making, persistent forgetfulness, and the need for a daily caregiver.

People often assume dementia is a normal aspect of aging, but that's inaccurate. It doesn't take root in a person's brain due to aging. Dementia occurs when brain cells are damaged, changing a person's communication skills, thinking, and behaviors. Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, HIV, depression, and chronic drug use can cause dementia. 

If you or a loved one needs help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) which includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, toileting and bathing, trust the professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services in St. Louis, MO. There's also the option of arranging for private duty nurse visits, if you do not qualify for Medicaid. Call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your specific needs, or visit them online to learn more about their services.