Is there any difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease? What are the signs of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease? Is there any assistance that retirement communities can provide? These are all questions that you may have, which we will answer in this article.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is a brain disorder that is characterized by a declining memory, deteriorating cognitive abilities of a person as well as changes in personality. As such, this can affect an individual’s ability to learn new information and skills, make judgements, think, reason and problem-solve. Evidently, this can be disastrous because these are all abilities that we require as humans, to lead a healthy and happy life.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a subset of dementia but is also the most common form of dementia. For people with this disease, their brain cells die and this prevents connections between the brain cells from being made. Just like dementia, this can cause changes in behavior, emotion as well as reasoning skills. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease which means that the condition can worsen over time, which is why early identification is a good idea.

Signs and Symptoms of Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease for Senior Living

  • Trouble solving problems or making plans
  • Forgetfulness that affects daily activities
  • Decreased judgement
  • Confusion of place and times
  • Changes in personality
  • Misplacing things
  • Getting lost in common areas

Risk Factors of Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia for Senior Living

It may be frustrating to hear this but these are factors outside your control that may result in these illnesses occurring in your life. However, do know that having a risk factor does not necessarily mean that you are going to develop the disease for sure, and vice versa.

  • Age
  • Gender
  • Family history
  • Race
  • Ethnicity
  • Down syndrome
  • Genetics
  • Mild memory and thinking issues
  • Head trauma

Lowering Risk of Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease for Senior Living

Though dementia and Alzheimer’s disease cannot be entirely prevented if you are predisposed to this condition, there are lifestyle changes you can make that can reduce your risk of developing these illnesses. This is because this disease has been linked to issues with blood vessels and heart health. Damage to blood vessels can play a vital role and increase the risk of this disease developing. To lower your risk, try implementing these changes:

  • Getting sufficient exercise
  • Quitting smoking
  • Having a healthy diet
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Keeping your mind active
  • Maintaining a healthy weight

Why Choose Discovery Village At Deerwood for Senior Living?

If you are struggling with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, Discovery Village At Deerwood is a great place that can aid you through this condition. We have a specialized memory care program that consists of special activities to help residents who are grappling with such illnesses. These ensure that retirees with such illnesses are not limited by their memory decline and are taking active steps to improve their condition. We have professionally trained nurses and nursing assistants, so you can be reassured that you are in experienced hands.

To learn more about our memory care program, contact us today or schedule a tour to see what we have to offer.