Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in cognitive ability severe enough to interfere with daily life, including memory loss, impaired communication, and changes in behavior. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for approximately 60-70% of all dementia cases.
In other words, Alzheimer’s disease is a specific type of dementia. It is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory, thinking skills, and the ability to carry out daily activities. However, not all dementia is caused by Alzheimer’s disease. Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and others.
So, to answer your question, dementia is a broader term that encompasses various conditions, and Alzheimer’s disease is a specific type of dementia. In most cases, Alzheimer’s disease comes first, leading to the development of dementia symptoms over time. However, there are other causes of dementia apart from Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia can also occur without Alzheimer’s disease being the underlying cause. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of dementia.
