"Dementia vs. Alzheimer's: Understanding the Differences"

Dementia and Alzheimer's disease are terms that often cause confusion. While both involve cognitive decline, they hold distinct meanings.

Dementia is an umbrella term for a decline in mental abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. It affects memory, thinking, communication, and reasoning. The Alzheimer's Association estimates over 6 million Americans live with dementia, impacting a significant portion of the population.

Alzheimer's: The Leading Cause: Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases according to the Alzheimer's Association. It's a progressive neurodegenerative disease that damages brain cells, leading to dementia symptoms. Abnormal protein buildups, called plaques and tangles, are a hallmark of Alzheimer's.

Setting SMART Goals for Success: Despite the progressive nature of dementia, there are ways to empower patients. Setting SMART goals, which are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, can be highly beneficial. These goals can focus on maintaining daily living skills, like dressing independently or preparing simple meals.