Understanding the Difference Between Alzheimer's and Dementia

An elderly mother called her son at midnight sobbing because of not finding her coat. The son rushed to comfort his mother just find out that her coat is inside the refrigerator. This funny to some but to the relatives who are experiencing this predicament, it is not a laughing matter. However, the need to know what is wrong with the mother should be understood, is this already Alzheimer's or dementia? The difference between Alzheimer's and dementia may be confusing to understand.

Dementia is a memory loss that is attributed to many clinical conditions. Dementia is one of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. It is characterized by a decrease of the level of mental and intellectual functioning of a person. Dementia can also occur in acute alcoholism, as a result of stroke.

Dementia most often diagnosed in the elderly population, with an onset of age 65. Actual brain scan will show physical difference between Alzheimer's and dementia. Alzheimer's disease reveals specific plaque and tangles in the brain autopsy that gives it a distinction from dementia. The main difference between Alzheimer's and dementia is the fact that several types of dementia can be cured. Once the underlying condition that caused dementia is treated, the memory loss will eventually go back. Compare it with Alzheimer's disease which has no cure and can progress to death. Alzheimer's disease has an early onset with an age as young as 30 years old. It is degenerative disease that affects the brain to remember familiar people and objects. It can even affect a person's ability to walk, speak, and eat. The end stage of Alzheimer's is bringing the person back to its infantile state.

The importance to know the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia is very important so that proper management can be given to the patient. Judging someone with Alzheimer's disease is not good for the patient as treatment can be an option. If a doctor diagnosed a patient with dementia, it is better to get a second opinion because it is not a diagnosis. Consultation with a geriatrician or a neurologist who is comfortable with elderly would be a good place to begin.

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