Watching a loved one live with Alzheimer’s or dementia is no easy task. Some families might find it difficult to tell whether their loved one is actually struggling with dementia or another similar condition. Thankfully, Grand Living is here to help. We empower families in Sugar Land, TX with clear, trustworthy insight into Alzheimer’s disease and the cognitive changes that come along with it. Let’s learn more about dementia and which conditions mimic the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
“The joy we see every day is why our team is so dedicated—those smiles are our greatest reward.”
— Seleta Boulds, Director of LUMINATIONS® Memory Care
What Is the Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s?
We often hear dementia and Alzheimer’s disease mentioned together, but they aren’t interchangeable terms. If your loved one has been diagnosed with one of these conditions, be sure to understand the difference:
Dementia
Dementia is not a single, specific disease. Rather, this is the general term for a range of conditions that cause a decline in cognitive abilities. Dementia is an umbrella term that includes symptoms like significant memory loss, impaired judgment, and language problems that affect the patient’s daily life. (Alzheimer’s Association, 2023).
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s is a specific form of dementia. This progressive brain disease erodes memory and cognitive abilities over time. So, while Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia, not all cases of dementia are Alzheimer’s disease (National Institute on Aging, 2023).
How to Spot the Early Warning Signs of Dementia
While it helps to know the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, it’s even more important to recognize their early warning signs. Catching Alzheimer’s early is the best way to get on track toward an effective care plan. We all forget things from time to time, but the symptoms of dementia are consistently disruptive and reduce quality of life. These symptoms could signal the onset of dementia:
- Memory Loss—Does your loved one forget information they learned only recently? Do they constantly ask the same questions?
- Challenges With Problem Solving—Does your loved one struggle to follow a familiar recipe or forget to pay their monthly bills?
- Struggling With Everyday Activities—Can your loved one no longer drive to a familiar location? Do you notice them forgetting the rules to a familiar game?
- Confusion—Is your loved one often losing track of the seasons or time?
- Changes in Mood and Personality—Have you noticed your loved one feeling more anxious or depressed? Do they seem confused, suspicious, or afraid more often than usual?
Reversible Conditions Often Mistaken for Dementia
Before jumping to a dementia diagnosis, doctors will rule out all other medical issues. After all, there’s more than one cause of temporary confusion and disorientation. Physicians know several conditions that may look like dementia but are actually treatable and sometimes reversible. These common medical issues often mimic dementia:
- Vitamin deficiencies, especially a severe lack of vitamin B12
- Underactive or overactive thyroid
- Medication side effects and interaction with other drugs
- Urinary tract infections
- Severe depression
What Disorder Is Most Often Misdiagnosed as Dementia?
As you can see, many conditions can look like dementia in certain circumstances. Depression is one of the most prevalent issues leading to a misdiagnosis of dementia. Older folks with depression often have difficulty concentrating, become forgetful, and lose interest in the things they once enjoyed. Taken together, these symptoms can resemble the early stages of dementia. If you’ve noticed any depressive symptoms in your loved one, it’s always best practice to speak with a healthcare professional. They can schedule a neurological exam and mental health screening to get to the bottom of the problem.
Our Approach to Memory Care at Grand Living
At Grand Living at Riverstone, we’re dedicated to making memory care feel more like a resort, not a run-of-the-mill nursing home. Residents enjoy everything from beautifully appointed apartments to private laundry services. Plus, our memory care residents have full access to our IN GRAND TASTE® dining program, which offers exquisite, chef-prepared meals.
However, what really sets Grand Living apart is our LUMINATIONS® program. This program branches into two living options: Monarch Lane and Lavender Lane. Monarch Lane offers memory care for both men and women, while Lavender Lane provides an exclusive setting for women. No matter which your loved one chooses, they’ll have the benefit of a secure, nurturing, and stimulating environment designed to support their specific needs.
“What LUMINATIONS® does best is creating a place where every resident feels truly comfortable and supported.”
— Seleta Boulds
What Else to Expect From Our Sugar Land Community
Our Sugar Land team stays on the cutting edge of healthcare and nursing services using innovative approaches like FACETS®. This signature program was built on the five dimensions of wellness—physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual. It helps residents stay active, connected, and inspired through personalized activities, experiences, and meaningful moments.
Beyond that, our residents also have access to a full-time Director of Fitness. This position creates tailored wellness plans and organizes lots of activities to keep your loved one engaged, despite their health concerns. Ultimately, we strive to do more than just provide care—we’re committed to cultivating a thriving community.
Get in Touch With Grand Living
A dementia diagnosis doesn’t mean your loved one has to give up a vibrant and joyful life. At Grand Living at Riverstone, our team offers comprehensive care that allows your loved one to age in place with the dignity they deserve. Get in touch with our Sugar Land, TX team today to learn more.
