Understanding Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s Disease

Navigating a progressive neurodegenerative condition, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or Parkinson’s disease, can be one of the most challenging experiences for any caregiver. These conditions, marked by memory loss, mood and behavioral changes, and movement difficulties, can impact a loved one’s entire life, affecting their ability to connect with the people and things they love.

With these diseases now impacting millions of Americans aged 65 and older, and expected to rise significantly within the next decade, understanding the signs and symptoms is critical. In this article, we’ll explore the umbrella term “dementia” and learn how to distinguish between age-related changes in memory and a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. Join us as we contrast key symptoms and discuss when to consider memory care options if a loved one’s needs change.

Understanding Dementia – An “Umbrella” Term

The term dementia is often used interchangeably with Alzheimer’s, but the two have distinct definitions. Dementia is referred to as an “umbrella term,” meaning it encompasses a range of cognitive, functional, and behavioral symptoms experienced by individuals with a specific disease or illness. People with dementia experience a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning that impacts their personality, mood, behavior, and other functions.

The Alzheimer’s Association notes that there are many different types of dementia and many conditions that cause it. Dementia is not recognized as a “normal” part of aging, but is caused by damage to brain cells. This damage can impair the brain’s ability to communicate, make decisions, manage daily tasks, and regulate emotions.

Dementia vs. Age-related Memory Loss

Recognizing dementia from age-related changes in memory can seem tricky, but it is often defined as “memory loss that disrupts daily life and routines.” For example, forgetting names, appointments, or locations can be common, as long as you remember them later. Getting confused about what day it is, as long as you recall it after, can also be normal. Even forgetting where you placed your keys or an important document is a normal occurrence, as long as you can eventually retrace your steps.

The following list shares a few signs and symptoms of dementia that are NOT part of normal aging:

• Problems with short-term memory
• Struggling to recall words or names and not remembering them later
• Repeating questions or statements over a short period of time
• Frequently forgetting to pay bills or missing appointments
• Misplacing commonly used items or putting them in unusual spots
• Increased difficulty with everyday tasks, such as preparing meals, following instructions, or completing steps
• Changes in mood, behavior, or interests, or withdrawal from social activities

While “normal” memory loss is seen as temporary, mild, and not severe enough to disrupt a person’s daily routine, dementia-associated memory loss is frequent and significant enough to interfere with a person’s regular functioning. While forgetting your keys may be a normal occurrence, forgetting what your keys do or how to use them is not.

If a loved one begins to exhibit any of the signs and symptoms above, and you have growing concerns about their memory loss, consult a physician. Addressing any changes as early as possible and undergoing a thorough medical evaluation can provide numerous benefits, starting with an accurate diagnosis. This knowledge can bring individuals and families peace of mind, resources for support, and guidance for their loved one’s future.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is considered a “type of dementia” and accounts for 60-80% of all dementia cases. It is a degenerative brain disease caused by proteins in the brain that contribute to brain cell damage, which worsens over time. As symptoms progress, a person with Alzheimer’s can eventually become disoriented, confused, and have difficulty speaking, walking, and swallowing. Individuals also struggle to remember and recognize the names and faces of the people they love.

Many diseases and conditions can cause dementia, but Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease are two of the most common. The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that seven million Americans aged 65 and older are currently living with Alzheimer’s, a figure projected to rise to over 12 million by 2060. Following Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, with an estimated 1.1 million people living with the condition in the United States.

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is another neurodegenerative condition that, while similar to Alzheimer’s disease, has the following signs and symptoms:

• Tremors, or shaking that often begins in the hands/fingers, foot, or jaw
• Slowed movement, known as bradykinesia
• Rigid or stiff muscles that can feel tense and painful
• Less expression in the person’s face
• Impaired balance and posture, often leading to falls
• Loss of automatic movements, such as blinking or swinging your arms
• Nonmotor symptoms, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, problems with memory/thinking, skin problems, and others

While Parkinson’s is typically characterized by tremors and movement difficulties, a person with this diagnosis can also experience cognitive changes. The Parkinson’s Foundation notes that while about half of those with Parkinson’s will be affected by mild cognitive impairment, people living with the disease can develop more significant or severe dementia as the disease progresses.

According to the Foundation, people with Parkinson’s disease may exhibit the following types of dementia:

Parkinson’s disease dementia. This type of dementia is diagnosed when a person living with Parkinson’s disease experiences significant cognitive decline after a year or more of motor symptoms. This typically occurs after years of experiencing motor symptoms commonly associated with the disease.

Dementia with Lewy Bodies. This type of dementia is diagnosed when cognitive decline is the earliest symptom, or when cognitive decline and motor symptoms begin and progress together.

Individuals with Parkinson’s who receive a diagnosis of dementia can experience a wide range of symptoms. They may become disoriented and confused, and struggle to recall how to perform everyday tasks, such as making coffee, getting dressed, or focusing on important information. They can also experience agitation, irritability, mood changes, delusions, hallucinations, and difficulties with vision and perception. Language and communication challenges, along with movement symptoms, can also be observed, leading to speech difficulties.

When symptoms of dementia are observed along with a Parkinson’s diagnosis, a complete neurological examination is necessary to rule out other causes and determine the right course of treatment. The American Brain Foundation provides an overview of the similarities and differences between Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease to promote a deeper understanding of how these two conditions are connected.

Considering Memory Care Options

Coping with a diagnosis of dementia, Alzheimer’s, or Parkinson’s disease is life-changing for a loved one managing the disease, as well as their family members. And as with any progressive neurodegenerative condition, the help and support of caregivers becomes more essential than ever. Those living with the disease rely on family members and a strong support network to help them manage the changes they experience as each stage impacts their daily life and functioning.

However, even the most devoted and capable caregivers encounter feelings of anger, resentment, and grief as they manage the complex changes in a loved one’s care needs. When this struggle begins to impact a caregiver’s physical, mental, or emotional health, or a loved one’s symptoms become severe enough to put health and safety at risk, it may be time to consider professional memory care options.

Memory care communities, or similar senior care options, can provide a secure and comfortable setting for a loved one to receive supportive care services within consistent and structured daily routines. Interactions with caring staff, along with meaningful opportunities for engagement and social connection, provide a relationship-centered lifestyle that enriches each day. With this support, caregivers can focus on spending quality time with their loved one, making the most of each visit rather than managing the stress of worsening symptoms, trying to ensure their loved one’s safety.

Deciding to transition a loved one to a memory care community can be difficult for families, but it can also be the positive change that enables a loved one to live a fuller and satisfying life. If you’re unsure about whether this decision is right for you—or your loved one, speak with a trusted physician, senior care advisor, or other families who have already walked this path. Their guidance can help to inform your decision, ease any anxiety, and provide peace of mind for your future plans.

To learn more about supporting a loved one with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or Parkinson’s or choosing the right assisted living or memory care option, contact a Cardinal Bay senior living expert today. Visit one of our Central Texas or Oklahoma communities to experience the Cardinal Bay difference, or subscribe to our blog for valuable, free resources to aid your search. Discover the many benefits of relationship-centered living and see why our residents call Cardinal Bay home.