What Is the Difference Between Alzheimer's and Dementia?

This is a common question and one that is both easy and difficult to answer. Dementia is the broad umbrella that covers cognitive decline, especially in older adults. It is differentiated from "Where did I put my car keys?' as you try to race out the door to finding the car keys and wondering, "Why aren't these in the refrigerator with the mixing bowl?" Dementia interferes with daily life in many ways making it difficult to complete daily tasks.
The largest number of those with dementia are individuals who have Alzheimer's disease. AD is a degenerative brain disease that impacts how the brain receives and interprets signals and information. It is progressive meaning that at first, symptoms are almost not discernible, but as these symptoms expand, life changes and becomes a mixture of confusion, frustration, anger, and often a sense of helplessness for both the person with AD and for the caregiver(s).
AD is not a normal part of aging - it is not something that everyone will experience. The disease is associated with aging but it may also arise from head trauma, PTS, familial genetics, or diabetes or cardio-vascular abnormalities. But then again, while the incidence of AD increases with age it does not mean that age is the cause.
For those who are wondering about brain function decline, there are several steps to take to fill you with knowledge. An accurate diagnosis is vital, a diagnosis that comes from a neurologist or gerontologist, doctors who are familiar with the brain and aging. The doctor's appointment may include a psycho-socio evaluation, cognitive testing or an MRI. The correct diagnosis may indicate that you are simply under stress, have an infection or other health problem or it may mean there is concern for cognitive challenges. The doctor's insight mean that the individual can make plans and seek guidance with a true understanding of physical and mental condition and what may lie on the road ahead.