Blog

Aug
09

Nursing Notes August 2021


Dementia vs Alzheimer's


Dementia and Alzheimer's are not the same.


Dementia is a syndrome not a disease. Dementia is the umbrella term to describe symptoms that affect memory, activities of daily living and communication. There are many types of Dementia but the most common form is Alzlheimer's.


Alzheimer's is a progressive disease of the brain that slowly causes impairment in memory and cognitive function. The exact cause is unknown and no cure is available.


Both conditions can cause a decline in the ability to think, memory impairment, and communication impairment.


The symptoms of Alzheimer's include difficulty remembering recent events or conversations, apathy, depression, impaired judgement, disorientation, confusion, behavioral changes, difficulty speaking, and swallowing or walking in advanced stages of the disease.