Dementia and Alzheimer’s are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing. Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in cognitive function, which can include memory loss, difficulty communicating, problems with reasoning and judgment, and changes in mood and behavior.

Alzheimer’s disease, on the other hand, is a specific type of dementia that is characterized by the progressive loss of memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. It is the most common cause of dementia and is estimated to account for 60-80% of all dementia cases.

So, while Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia, not all cases of dementia are caused by Alzheimer’s. There are other types of dementia, such as vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, each with its own unique symptoms and causes.

It’s important to seek a proper medical diagnosis from a doctor or specialist if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of dementia, as different types of dementia may require different treatments and support.