Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer's: Key Differences and Effective Daily Living Equipment

Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease are often mentioned interchangeably, but they are not the same. Understanding the distinction between them is crucial for providing appropriate care and support to those affected, fostering better communication, creating more effective care plans, and ultimately enhancing the well-being of those living with these challenging conditions.

Here, we’ll highlight the key differences between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as simple but effective equipment that can make each day easier.

What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease?

Dementia is an umbrella term that describes a range of symptoms associated with cognitive decline. It is not a specific disease but a syndrome—a group of related symptoms that often occur together, affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities enough to interfere with daily life.

Alzheimer's disease, on the other hand, is a specific disease and the most common cause of dementia. It accounts for 60-80% of all dementia cases. Alzheimer's is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects memory, thinking, and behaviour.

Here’s a quick comparison. Understanding the differences can be crucial in providing appropriate care and support to those affected.

Different types of dementia

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Considering the condition's “umbrella” nature, let’s examine the different types of dementia to better understand them.

Alzheimer's Disease

The most common form of dementia. Characterised by amyloid plaques (fibrous patches) and tau tangles (strands of proteins) in the brain. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with language and problem-solving.

Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to strokes or other blood vessel conditions. Symptoms can include impaired judgment, difficulty with planning, and slower thinking.

Lewy Body Dementia

This kind of dementia is characterised by abnormal brain protein deposits called Lewy bodies. Symptoms include visual hallucinations, movement disorders, and cognitive fluctuations.

Frontotemporal Dementia

This group of disorders is caused by the degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Symptoms include personality changes, language difficulties, and impaired executive functions.

Mixed Dementia

This is a combination of two or more types of dementia, often including Alzheimer's and vascular dementia. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the types involved.

Parkinson's Disease Dementia

Parkinson’s dementia occurs in some people with Parkinson's disease, typically developing a year or more after Parkinson's symptoms. Symptoms include memory problems, slow thinking, and impaired judgment.

Shocking dementia statistics in Australia

Dementia is the second leading cause of death in all Australians, with an estimated 421,000 Aussies living with dementia. But the shocking statistics don’t end there.

1. Dementia is the leading cause of death in women in Australia.
    
2. Without a medical breakthrough, the number of dementia cases in the country is expected to exceed 812,500 by 2054 due to the ageing population.
    
3. Between 2021 and 2022, 25,700 hospitalisations related to dementia occurred (the equivalent of two out of every 1,000 hospitalisations). The average length of stay was more than five times the average for all patients (16 days compared to 2.7 days).
    
4. While two in three people with dementia are living in the community, 54% of permanent aged care residents have dementia.
    
5. More than 1.6 million Aussies are involved in the care of someone with dementia. One in two carers provides 60 hours or more of care a week, and three in four reported multiple physical or emotional impacts of the role.

Considering the prevalence of dementia in the community and the level of care required for many Australians, improving safety, comfort, and quality of life is crucial. Let’s dive into some essential home and residential aged care products designed to support individuals with dementia.

Allows us to help support your client or loved one with dementia

Dementia is a growing public health issue. Supporting people with dementia with engaging activities and helpful, easy-to-use equipment can greatly improve their quality of life and well-being.

At Active Mobility, our goal is to provide holistic care and cater to the needs of all Australians living with disabilities and conditions like dementia. We specialise in the supply of patient care products and have occupational therapists on hand who will ensure your client or loved one receives the support and equipment they need.

Shop online or book a showroom appointment to receive tailored support from our team.

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