Dementia and Alzheimer’s Is Not One Of The Same Disease


Dementia and Alzheimer’s Is Not One Of The Same Disease

Many people use the terms dementia and Alzheimer’s disease interchangeably—but they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference is an important first step in recognizing symptoms, seeking help, and supporting those affected.

Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning that interferes with daily life. It is not a specific disease, but rather a category of conditions that affect cognitive function.

There are several types of dementia, including:

  • Alzheimer’s disease (the most common)
  • Vascular dementia, often caused by reduced blood flow to the brain
  • Lewy body dementia, associated with abnormal protein deposits in the brain
  • Frontotemporal dementia, which primarily affects behavior and language

Each type has different causes, symptoms, and progression patterns.

Alzheimer’s disease is a specific, progressive brain disease and accounts for 60–80% of all dementia cases. It develops as abnormal protein changes damage and destroys brain cells, leading to a gradual decline in cognitive abilities.

Alzheimer’s typically begins with:

  • Memory loss that disrupts daily life
  • Difficulty remembering recently learned information

As the disease progresses, individuals may experience:

  • Challenges with problem-solving and decision-making
  • Confusion with time or place
  • Changes in mood, behavior, or personality
  • Difficulty completing familiar daily tasks

Over time, Alzheimer’s affects a person’s ability to live independently and requires increasing levels of care and support.



Alzheimer’s disease affects families and communities across our state. In Illinois, more than 255,000 people are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and that number is expected to grow as the population ages. Behind each statistic is a person, a caregiver, and a family navigating the realities of this disease.

Lionell Martin, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, Phone: 773.593.4211
Email: lrmartin@alz.org

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.



Latest Stories

Latest Podcast

James Harvey-One Roof Chicago