Conversations about dementia often come with uncertainty and concern, especially for families noticing changes in a loved one. In a recent episode of Thoughtful Connections: A Memory Care Podcast, Elizabeth Thompson, Arrow Senior Regional Director of Memory Care, addressed the eight most common questions people ask when trying to understand dementia. Below is an expanded look at her answers, offering clarity, reassurance, and guidance as you navigate this journey.
1. What exactly is dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term, not a single disease, that describes a group of symptoms affecting memory, reasoning, communication, and daily living. These changes occur when brain cells become damaged and lose the ability to communicate effectively. Dementia can impact behavior, personality, and the ability to make decisions. While it is progressive, meaning symptoms worsen over time, each person’s experience is unique. Types of dementia vary widely, with different causes and patterns of progression.
2. What should people look out for in the early stages of dementia?
Early symptoms can be subtle and may resemble normal aging at first. Families often notice repeating questions, misplacing items, struggling to follow conversations, or difficulty completing familiar tasks. Other early signs include changes in judgment, withdrawal from social activities, confusion about time or place, or sudden shifts in mood or personality. Detecting these signs early is important, as early diagnosis can open the door to helpful treatments, care planning, and lifestyle adjustments that support independence.
3. How are dementia and Alzheimer’s different?
Dementia is the broader category, while Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, accounting for up to 70% of cases. Alzheimer’s typically begins with memory loss and gradually affects language, problem-solving, and behavior. Other types of dementia, such as vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, have different causes and symptoms. For example, Lewy body dementia often causes visual hallucinations and movement issues, while vascular dementia relates to stroke or reduced blood flow in the brain. Understanding the specific type helps families make informed care decisions.
4. How do doctors determine if someone has dementia?
Diagnosis is a multi-step process. Doctors start with a detailed medical history and may ask a family member to share observations. Cognitive assessments help measure memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. Brain imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, can show structural changes, strokes, or abnormalities. Blood tests rule out reversible conditions like vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems. Some specialists may perform neurological exams or refer patients for neuropsychological testing. An accurate diagnosis helps tailor care, medications, and support plans.
5. Is dementia a normal part of aging?
No, dementia is not a normal or expected part of growing older. While age is the greatest risk factor, many people live long, healthy lives without ever developing dementia. Memory lapses like occasionally forgetting a name are typical with aging; dementia involves persistent, progressive impairment that interferes with daily life. Understanding this difference helps reduce stigma and encourages early medical evaluation rather than assuming symptoms are “just aging.”
6. Is there any cure for dementia on the horizon?
There is currently no cure for dementia, but scientific progress is accelerating. Some newer medications may slow the progression of certain types of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, when used in early stages. Researchers are exploring therapies that target the proteins involved in cognitive decline, as well as lifestyle-based prevention strategies. While a cure may still be years away, advancements in treatment and earlier diagnosis offer meaningful improvements in quality of life.
7. Is there a way to ensure we won’t get dementia?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent dementia, but evidence suggests that maintaining a healthy brain and body can significantly reduce risk. This includes eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, staying socially connected, managing blood pressure and diabetes, and staying mentally active through reading, puzzles, or lifelong learning. Prioritizing good sleep, reducing stress, and not smoking also play key roles. While these habits cannot eliminate risk entirely, they support cognitive health and may delay or minimize symptoms.
8. Can someone with dementia still find joy and purpose?
Absolutely. A diagnosis does not eliminate a person’s ability to experience happiness, connection, or meaning. With compassionate support, individuals with dementia can enjoy familiar routines, music, art, pets, nature, and social engagement. Moments of joy may be different than they once were, but they remain deeply valuable. Purpose can be found in small daily activities, relationships, and moments of recognition. Person-centered care, focused on honoring everyone’s history, preferences, and strengths, helps nurture these moments.
At Arrow Senior Living, we believe education, empathy, and individualized support make a world of difference for families and residents impacted by dementia. By understanding the questions that matter most, we can better guide families with knowledge, compassion, and confidence every step of the way.
To learn more on this topic: Signs It’s Time for Memory Care
