What is the Difference Between Alzheimer’s and Dementia?

Many families in Northumberland and the North East are faced with questions about memory loss, confusion, and behavioural changes in loved ones. One of the most common misunderstandings is the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. If you’ve been asking, “what is the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?”, the distinction is important for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care planning.

At Wentworth Grange, we offer tailored support for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Our goal is to provide clarity, comfort, and exceptional care in a calm, supportive environment.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is not a disease itself, but a term that describes a group of symptoms associated with decline in memory, reasoning, and communication. It’s caused by damage to the brain from diseases like Alzheimer’s, strokes, or other neurological disorders. There are several different types of dementia, including:

·       Alzheimer’s Disease

·       Vascular Dementia

·       Dementia With Lewy Bodies

·       Frontotemporal Dementia

What Is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, responsible for around 60 to 70% of cases. It is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, language, and cognitive function due to the buildup of plaques and tangles in the brain. Alzheimer’s is a specific disease with distinct features. Understanding what is Alzheimer’s can help families make informed care decisions. Key characteristics of Alzheimer’s include:

·       Progressive Memory Loss: Gradual difficulty recalling recent events or learning new information

·       Structural Brain Changes: Brain shrinkage caused by protein buildup

·       Predictable Disease Pattern: Symptoms follow a relatively clear trajectory

·       Currently Incurable: Treatments can manage symptoms, but not reverse the condition

Shared Symptoms of Alzheimer’s & Dementia

Since Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia, there is some overlap in symptoms. In early stages, individuals may show general signs of cognitive decline regardless of the specific diagnosis. These common symptoms can impact daily life and communication. If you’re unsure how to distinguish between the two, understanding shared signs is a good starting point. Symptoms often seen in both include:

·       Memory Impairment: Forgetting appointments, conversations or personal details

·       Language Difficulties: Struggling to find the right words or follow conversations

·       Disorientation: Getting confused about time or place

·       Poor Judgement: Mismanaging money or making unusual decisions

·       Mood Changes: Anxiety, sadness, or becoming withdrawn

Signs That Point to Alzheimer’s Specifically

While many types of dementia affect memory, Alzheimer’s is particularly marked by early and worsening memory loss. The disease also impacts how individuals relate to their surroundings and loved ones in distinct ways. Knowing what to look for can help you identify Alzheimer’s more confidently and seek early support. Typical Alzheimer’s-specific symptoms include:

·       Repetitive Questions or Behaviours: Asking the same thing over and over

·       Getting Lost in Familiar Places: Difficulty navigating previously well-known routes

·       Problems With Visual-Spatial Awareness: Trouble judging distances or depth

·       Misidentifying Loved Ones: Forgetting names or not recognising familiar faces

·       Severe Communication Decline: Losing the ability to hold conversations or understand instructions

How Other Forms of Dementia Differ

Other types of dementia often begin with symptoms that are not memory-related. The order in which functions decline can help distinguish one condition from another. Understanding these patterns can make it easier for clinicians and families to target the right interventions early. Some differences include:

·       Vascular Dementia: May begin with planning or concentration difficulties after a stroke

·       Lewy Body Dementia: Often includes visual hallucinations or physical tremors

·       Frontotemporal Dementia: Early signs often include personality changes or language loss

Diagnosis & Treatment Approaches

The process of diagnosis typically includes memory testing, physical exams, blood tests, and brain imaging. It’s essential to work with healthcare professionals who can accurately determine whether symptoms point to Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. While there is no cure for most forms of dementia, early treatment can improve quality of life. The right approach depends on the type and stage of the condition. Treatment options may include:

·       Cholinesterase Inhibitors: Often used in early to moderate Alzheimer’s cases to slow symptom progression

·       Memantine: A medication used in moderate to severe Alzheimer’s to manage symptoms

·       Lifestyle Therapies: Diet, exercise and brain stimulation activities to support cognitive health

·       Routine & Environmental Support: Stability to reduce anxiety and promote safety

·       Personalised Care Plans: Adapted to the individual’s changing needs

Support for Alzheimer’s at Wentworth Grange

At Wentworth Grange, we provide expert support for Alzheimer’s in a peaceful and respectful setting. Our staff are specially trained to understand the condition and adapt care accordingly. Supportive Alzheimer’s care at our home includes:

·       Consistent Staffing: Familiar faces build trust and support routine

·       Structured Daily Routines: Reduce confusion and promote comfort

·       Engaging Activities: Music, crafts and reminiscence to support cognitive engagement

·       Family Involvement: Open communication and regular care reviews

·       Safe Environments: Designed to minimise stress and prevent wandering

When to Seek Professional Dementia Support

Whether your loved one has Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, early support can significantly improve their quality of life. Getting the right care at the right time helps manage symptoms and gives families peace of mind. Consider professional help if you notice:

·       Increasing memory lapses or repeated questions

·       Trouble managing daily tasks, hygiene, or medication

·       Personality changes or uncharacteristic behaviours

·       Getting lost or disoriented in familiar places

·       A decline in social engagement or communication

Dementia & Alzheimer’s Support in Northumberland

Wentworth Grange proudly serves individuals and families across Northumberland and the North East, offering compassionate, structured care tailored to Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Our home is designed to feel like a safe, peaceful haven—where every resident is treated with dignity, patience, and warmth. To learn more about our dementia and Alzheimer’s care services, or to schedule a visit, contact us today. We’re here to support you through every stage of the journey.