Dementia is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that include memory loss, language difficulties, changes in perception, mood, and behaviour. It’s important to note that individuals living with dementia can have different abilities and will experience symptoms differently, despite the overall dementia diagnosis.
There are various types of dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common. For some individuals, symptoms may progress gradually over time. However, there are ways to support and care for those living with dementia.
It’s important to understand that dementia is not a normal aspect of aging, but rather a result of diseases that damage nerve cells in the brain. When these nerve cells are damaged, the brain’s ability to function properly is impaired. Different types of dementia can be caused by various diseases that affect the brain in distinct ways.
The Alzheimer’s Society states that around 80% of individuals with dementia have one of four main types. Each type of dementia has its own set of common early symptoms, but every person will experience dementia differently. It’s also possible to have symptoms of more than one type of dementia, referred to as mixed dementia.
The four most common types of dementia include:
It’s recommended to read information from the Alzheimer’s Society for more in-depth understanding about the specific types of dementia.
