Alzheimer's vs. Dementia: Understanding the Key Differences

Dementia and Alzheimer's disease are medical conditions associated with aging, but there are differences between the two that are important to understand. While both are similar in affecting cognitive abilities, causes and treatments may be different.

Definitions

• Dementia is a broad category of cognitive impairments, including memory loss and reduced brain function. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia.

Ages at Onset

• Dementia may generally occur in adults older than 70. Though it's widely considered a senior citizen's disease, Alzheimer's can strike as early as age 45.

Causes

• The most common form of dementia besides Alzheimer's is caused by blood clots leading to loss of brain tissue. Alzheimer's is thought to occur following the buildup of protein fragments, or plaque, in the brain.

Reversibility

• Some forms of dementia are reversible. Alzheimer's may only be slowed via drugs and neuropsychological care.

Treatment

• If the cause of dementia is determined to be reversible, doctors will seek to do so via appropriate treatment, often through changes in medication or perhaps surgery. Since Alzheimer's is characterized by a more gradual progression of loss of cognitive functions, it is often treated through drug regimens, psychological counseling, structured environments and professional care.